Heat pumps are gaining popularity as an efficient way to heat and cool homes. At Entegrus, we are seeing more customers adopt this technology, and for good reasons. Heat pumps can reduce your home’s total energy use and carbon footprint. But they also come with a learning curve. Without the right settings and setup, they can cause unexpected increases in electricity use.
What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump moves heat rather than generating it, cooling your home in summer and warming it in winter. Because they run entirely on electricity, they reduce the need for burning natural gas, propane, or oil.
Why your Electricity Bill Might Go Up
Some customers are surprised to see a higher electricity bill after installing a heat pump. Here’s why:
- Fuel switching: If you previously used gas or oil to heat your home, that part of your energy use now shows on your electricity bill.
- Cold weather backup: During freezing temperatures, many heat pumps switch to a backup heating system. If that backup is electric, it can use much more power and lead to higher electricity bills.
This type of heat is often labeled “Aux” or “Emergency Heat” on your thermostat. It’s important to know when your system is using it (and how to minimize it). - Incorrect settings: If your thermostat isn’t set properly, the system may default to inefficient modes more often than needed.
Tips to Keep Costs Down
| Tip | Why it Helps |
|---|---|
| Avoid big temperature swings | Large changes can trigger auxiliary (backup) heat, which is less efficient. Adjust temperatures gradually. |
| Use a smart thermostat made for heat pumps | These can automatically optimize settings and prevent unnecessary backup heat. |
| Learn your system's behavior | Know when “Aux” or “Emergency Heat” is running, and adjust settings to avoid it unless needed. |
| Schedule seasonal maintenance | Ensure your system runs efficiently. Clean filters and coils reduce strain and energy use. |
| Use dual-fuel systems wisely | If you have a gas backup, set the changeover temperature correctly (e.g., -2°C or 28°F) to avoid inefficient electric heat in extreme cold. |
Things to Watch For When Installing
- Electrical protection matters: Modern heat pumps use advanced circuit boards and high-efficiency motors. These are expensive components that should be protected. Ask your contractor to install surge protection specifically for your HVAC equipment.
- Check warranty terms: That “10-year warranty” might only apply if specific equipment or installation standards are followed. Make sure you're clear on what’s required, and choose a reputable installer.
- Proper sizing is critical: A system that’s too small won’t keep up; one that’s too large may cycle too often and wear out faster. Accurate sizing ensures both comfort and efficiency.
Comparing Ground-Source and Air-Source Heat Pumps
Ground-source heat pumps can work more efficiently in extreme cold, but they come with higher installation costs. For many homes, air-source systems paired with a gas furnace offer the best balance between upfront cost and ongoing efficiency.
A Customer’s Perspective
One local customer described their experience this way:
In the winter, my system uses the heat pump until the temperature drops below -2°C. Then it automatically switches to natural gas, which keeps the cost down. In the summer, it cools efficiently and quietly, using less power than my old A/C. I just make sure to clean the fins regularly and schedule an annual checkup. It’s been a great upgrade.
Bottom Line
Heat pumps are a great option to reduce your home’s carbon footprint, and they can save you money, especially when combined with smart thermostats and backup heating. But success depends on getting the details right: proper installation, careful thermostat settings, regular maintenance, and informed use.
If you’ve recently made the switch and are curious about your electricity use, log in to My Account to view your usage patterns. Or, talk to your HVAC provider to make sure your system is running as efficiently as possible.