Ducted Heat Pump Systems

About Ducted Heat Pump

Ducted heating is a commonplace heating system utilized worldwide. Also known as a central heat pump, this system uses ductwork to heat homes.

Despite its name, a heat pump does not merely produce heat. Instead, it also functions as ducted air conditioning – removing heat from the indoors.

However, heat pumps are not necessarily for everyone. A central heating and cooling system requires the intricate installation and relies on the surrounding atmosphere for its efficiency. 

Nonetheless, given its safety and the convenience it offers, it remains one of the most popular air conditioning options.

Ducted Heat Pumps

A ducted heat pump offers several benefits for the user. However, the system also has some drawbacks.

Advantages Of Ducted Heat Pumps

• They are effective and efficient; capable of delivering up to three times more heat energy than electrical energy
• Ducted heat pumps are convenient. They can heat the entire house 
• Ducts remain hidden by walls to avoid unnecessary components and clutter
• Ducted heat pumps utilize reverse-cycle air conditioning, acting as an efficient summer air cooler

Disadvantages Of Ducted Heat Pumps

• Ducted heat pumps are relatively expensive to install
• Dust may gather in the duct, causing operating and health complications
• Inadequate maintenance can result in the duct being blocked, leading to lengthy repairs

Factors Affecting Cost Of Ducted Heat Pump Systems

There is a myriad of factors determining the cost of any heat pump system. There is no 'single size fits all' in the realm of heat pumps; however, there are certain factors characteristics and factors that can help understand the type of heat pump ideal for any housing:

Layout And Heating Requirements

The house layout and the heating requirement have a significant impact on the cost of a heat pump. One of the vital considerations is the number of rooms anyone wants to heat in their home. 

Mini-split system heat pumps might be ideal if there is a heating requirement for only a single room or a big common area. 

Another question that must be answered before choosing the system is whether the house has a pre-existing duct system. 

If yes, then a ducted heating unit is the right option since it enables one to discreetly cool and heat multiple zones simultaneously. 

Kind Of Heat Pump

Once the layout and heating requirements have been determined, the second factor is the type of heat pump best suitable. 

As said before, different types of heat pumps are suitable for various heating goals and home layouts.

Various heat pumps can be installed inside a house, and the type chosen will significantly impact the cost. 

Furthermore, there are slight alterations in the thermostat controls depending on the heating system; this choice also adds to the thermostat cost. 

Multi-zone mini-split systems or ducted heat pump systems are expensive than single-zone heat pumps, but, in the long run, a ducted heat pump system has much more benefits for a bigger house than its single-zone counterpart. 

Efficiency Of The Heat Pump

It is one of the critical performance factors to assess when choosing any heat pump. 

Even though the higher efficiency model might be costly upfront, but remember that the higher the efficiency of the ductless heat pump unit, the more it can save on heating bills in the long term. 

There are multiple measures of efficiency in a heat pump; gain knowledge of the house layout and how much efficiency will be required to have a top-notch heating system before making any decision. 

Quality And Brand

Selecting a heat pump configuration and model is a crucial decision that impacts how comfortable a home remains in the long term. 

The chosen brand will significantly impact the overall reliability and longevity of any ductless heat pump system. 

When they stumble across many lower-quality heat pump brands and models, their single common trait is that they are cheaper. 

As anyone starts to weigh their options, they must also consider factors like home automation systems and warranties. 

Keep in mind that the longer the warranty protection, the higher the manufacturer's confidence in its quality. 

Maintenance Of Ducted Heat Pump Systems

The primary way to ensure that a heat pump system lasts long is to schedule regular preventive maintenance checkups.

Additionally, the best times to do this are during fall, before winter, or in the spring before the air conditioning season. 

However, here are some aspects to be mindful of during heat pump service maintenance:

• Check the filters, indoor coil, ducts, and blower for any obstruction and dirt
• Check for duct leakage and, if present, repair it
• Ensure that the heat pump is receiving sufficient airflow
• Make sure that the underfloor heating is distributed evenly and there are no obstructions
• Inspect the electric terminals and, if required, tighten and clean the connection while also applying a non-conductive coating
• If the thermostat uses batteries, then change them
• Correct the refrigerant charge
• Lubricate motors, and check the belts for wear and tightness
• Correct the electric controls, ensuring that cooling is locked out when the thermostat calls for heating and vice versa
• Check the condensing unit base-pan drain holes of the heat pump and remove debris if present
• Check whether the sensors in the thermostat are in working order