If you’ve noticed more of your neighbors installing efficient, new heating and cooling units on the side of their homes, you’re seeing a fast-growing home energy upgrade here in Oregon. Â
Heat pumps can heat and cool your home while using less energy. If you’ve wondered what a heat pump is or whether a heat pump is right for your home, here's what to know.
One system, two jobs
Heat pumps work as both a heater and air conditioner. Instead of creating heat the way a furnace does or cool air like an air conditioner, a heat pump moves heat from one place to another. In the summer, it pulls heat out of your house to keep things cool. In the winter, it pulls heat from the outdoor air – even on chilly Oregon days – and moves it inside. Because heat pumps move heat instead of generating it, they use much less energy than electric resistance heating systems like electric baseboard heaters. Â
Why professional setup matters
With heat pumps becoming more popular, "DIY heat pump kits" have started appearing online. While the lower price tag may look appealing, experts say professional installation is important for safety and performance.
Safety Considerations: Heat pumps involve high-voltage wiring and specialized cooling gases that require proper handling.
Proper Sizing: A professional doesn’t just install the system; they make sure it’s the right size for your home, so it can handle both summer heat waves and cold winter nights.
Warranty Protection: Most manufacturers require professional installation for warranties to remain valid. Saving a few hundred dollars on labor upfront could end up costing much more if the system fails and isn’t covered.
How to upgrade the smart way
The good news? You don't have to navigate the process alone. Heat pump options can work in many different homes. If your home has ducts, a ducted heat pump can often connect to your existing system. For homes without ducts, ductless mini-split heat pumps can heat and cool individual rooms and spaces.
With professional installation, they can provide reliable heating and cooling for many years while helping lower energy use and monthly bills. Programs through Energy Trust of Oregon offer cash incentives and rebates that can help lower the upfront cost of installing a heat pump. In addition to heat pumps, Energy Trust provides incentives and support for a range of energy-efficiency upgrades for electric and gas utility customers, including efficient furnace upgrades for income-qualified households.
Ready to explore your options? Visit energytrust.org to find a list of verified local contractors and learn more about available cash incentives.
About Energy Trust of OregonÂ
Energy Trust of Oregon is an independent nonprofit created to help people, organizations, and communities save energy and connect to renewable power like solar. Funded by customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas and Avista, Energy Trust services lower energy costs and help communities and utilities achieve their clean energy goals and build a strong future for Oregon. Learn more at www.energytrust.org/residential/incentives.  Â
