Heat Pump FAQ

Heat pumps provide heating and cooling, and can supplement or fully replace your heating system. They use less energy, save money, and reduce your carbon footprint. Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often.

TL;DR

• One system, year-round comfort: Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling.
• Highly energy efficient: They move heat instead of generating it.
• Built for Massachusetts winters: Modern cold-climate heat pumps perform well in sub-zero temperatures.
• Lower carbon footprint: Switching from oil or gas reduces emissions over time.
• Incentives are available: Mass Save® rebates and 0% Heat Loan financing can lower upfront costs.
• Ducted or ductless options: Solutions are available for homes with or without ductwork.
• Hybrid systems are common: Many homeowners keep an existing system as backup heat.
• Simple maintenance: Annual service and filter changes keep systems running efficiently.

Basic Heat Pump Information

What is an air source heat pump?

An air source heat pump is a heating and cooling system that transfers heat between the indoor air and outdoor air. Unlike furnaces or boilers that generate heat by burning fuel, heat pumps move existing heat from one place to another, making them more energy efficient.

How do heat pumps work?

Heat pumps work like refrigerators or air conditioners but can operate in both directions. In heating mode, they extract heat from outdoor air (even cold air) and transfer it inside your home. In cooling mode, they remove heat from indoor air and release it outside.

Can heat pumps work in cold Massachusetts winters?

Yes. Modern air source heat pumps are designed to work efficiently even in cold climates. Today’s technology is vastly improved over older generations and can operate effectively in sub-zero temperatures. Many Massachusetts homes now use heat pumps as their primary heating system.

Do heat pumps provide air conditioning too?

Yes. Air source heat pumps provide both heating and cooling. In summer, they function like air conditioners and are typically more efficient than traditional central air systems, window units, or through-wall air conditioners.

Efficiency, Costs, and Climate Impact

How energy efficient are heat pumps compared to traditional heating systems?

Heat pumps are significantly more energy efficient than oil or gas boilers, furnaces, and electric baseboard heat because they move heat rather than generate it. Depending on your existing system and usage patterns, this can translate into substantial energy savings.

Will a heat pump reduce my carbon footprint?

Yes. Switching from oil or gas to an electric heat pump lowers your home’s carbon emissions. As Massachusetts adds more renewable electricity from wind and solar, the environmental impact of electric heating continues to decline.

How do heat pumps support Massachusetts’ climate goals?

Buildings account for roughly 35% of Massachusetts’ carbon emissions. By electrifying heating systems and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, heat pumps help the state meet its climate targets. Mass Save® incentives now reflect both energy savings and climate benefits.

Installation, Incentives, and Savings

How much does it cost to install a heat pump in Massachusetts?

Installation costs vary based on home size, system type, existing ductwork, and other factors. Incentives and rebates can significantly reduce upfront costs. Contact us to explore heat pump rebates and installation options for your home.

What incentives are available for Massachusetts residents?

Mass Save® incentives may include rebates up to $10,000 for whole-home air source heat pump systems, 0% financing through the Heat Loan Program, and additional incentives for income-eligible households.

How do I qualify for Mass Save heat pump incentives?

The first step is to contact us for a heat pump estimate. We’ll help you understand eligibility requirements and guide you through the rebate process.

Will I save money in the long run with a heat pump?

In most cases, yes. Energy savings over time combined with incentives often make heat pumps economical. Savings depend on your current heating fuel, electricity rates, and home efficiency. If you add air conditioning where you previously had none, summer electricity use may increase.

System Types and Design

What’s the difference between ducted and ductless air source heat pumps?

Ducted heat pumps use existing ductwork to distribute air throughout the home and are ideal for whole-house comfort.

Ductless heat pumps (mini-splits) deliver heating and cooling directly to individual rooms, offering zone control without requiring ductwork.

What is a mini-split system?

A mini-split is a type of ductless air source heat pump with an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units. Mini-splits allow you to heat or cool specific rooms independently, improving comfort and efficiency.

Which type of heat pump is better for my home?

The best option depends on your home and comfort goals. Homes with existing ductwork often choose ducted systems, while homes without ducts or those seeking room-by-room control often choose ductless systems. A professional assessment is the safest way to decide.

Operation, Maintenance, and Longevity

Are heat pumps low maintenance?

Yes. Heat pumps have fewer mechanical components than oil or steam systems. Routine maintenance usually includes filter changes, keeping outdoor units clear, and an annual professional check-up.

Do I need to completely replace my existing heating system?

No. Many homeowners install hybrid systems where the heat pump handles most heating needs and an existing boiler or furnace remains as backup for extreme cold.

Will my heat pump work during power outages?

No. Heat pumps require electricity to operate. If power outages are common, a backup generator or secondary heating system may be recommended.

How loud are heat pump systems?

Modern heat pumps operate quietly. Indoor units are comparable to a refrigerator, and outdoor units are similar in sound level to central air conditioners when properly installed.

How long do heat pumps last?

With proper maintenance, air source heat pumps typically last 15–20 years, similar to traditional heating and cooling systems.

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