Which Type of Heat Pump Is Best?

Choosing the Right Heat Pump for Your Michigan Home

If you’re considering a heat pump to keep you comfortable through Michigan’s humid summers and frigid winters, it’s important to choose the right type. Would your home benefit most from an air source, ground source, or ductless mini-split heat pump?

Let our award-winning HVAC technicians help you find the optimal heat pump for you.

Book your free estimate with Ehler’s Heating & Air Conditioning today. 

Understanding the Different Types of Heat Pumps

Known for their energy efficiency, heat pumps can help you conserve energy and enjoy significant savings on energy bills, but each type has pros and cons. The ideal heat pump for your home depends on several factors, including the size of your home, whether you have existing ductwork, your location/climate, and your energy conservation goals.

Air-Source Heat Pumps

How They Work:

Air-source heat pumps move air around. In the winter, they extract heat from the outside air to heat your home, and in the summer, they reverse the process.

Pros:

Air-source heat pumps are energy-efficient for moderate climates. They’re easy to install and maintain and have a lower upfront cost.

Cons:

In climates with extremely cold winters, like Michigan, air-source heat pumps are less efficient and effective. You’ll most likely need to install a backup heating source that kicks in during freezing temperatures.

While this sounds like a bad thing, homes with two types of heating systems are highly efficient because the systems support each other, resulting in less system stress and a longer lifespan for both. 

Ideal For:

Air-source heat pumps are perfect for homes with moderate heating and cooling needs and are also suitable for Michigan’s milder transitional seasons.

Ground-Source (Geothermal) Heat Pumps

How They Work:

Geothermal heat pumps use the earth’s consistent underground temperature to transfer heat to and from the home.

Pros:

If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly HVAC system with a dramatically reduced carbon footprint, you can’t lose with a geothermal heat pump. They’re highly energy-efficient year-round, regardless of outdoor temperatures. Over time, you’ll enjoy significantly lower operating costs because you’ll be saving so much energy.

Cons:

Geothermal systems come with a hefty price tag due to the challenges of installation, which involve significant yard space and extensive excavation.

Ideal For:

If you’re a Michigan homeowner looking for long-term energy savings and you have a large property with lots of yard space, a geothermal heat pump is a terrific option.

Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps

How They Work:

Mini-splits don’t require any ductwork because they heat and cool individual rooms directly.

Pros:

Ductless mini-splits are super customizable and provide total temperature control with a simple remote-controlled device. Easy to install, mini-splits are highly efficient for small spaces or additions because they don’t lose any energy through ductwork.

Cons:

If you need temperature control in several rooms, the price for each mini-split can add up fast.

Ideal For:

If you have an older home or home addition without ductwork, mini-splits are an energy-efficient option for heating and cooling targeted spaces.

Choosing the Right Heat Pump for Your Michigan Home

Now that you understand the different types of heat pumps, the next step is consulting with your local HVAC professionals for a tailored recommendation based on your home’s unique size, layout, climate, and energy needs. Our NATE-certified HVAC technicians are the best in the business and are eager to help you make the right choice!

Why Choose Ehlers Heating & Air Conditioning for Your Heat Pump Installation?

Ehler’s Heating & Air Conditioning has over 60 years of experience installing and servicing heat pumps in Michigan. Family-owned and -operated since 1961, our acclaimed team understands Michigan’s unique climate challenges and local building requirements, making us ideal partners in your search for proper heat pump installations.

You can always count on us for:

• Total commitment to your 100% satisfaction
• Upfront pricing
• Flexible financing options
• No subcontracting
• Free estimates on replacement quotes
• And much more

Contact us today for a free consultation to determine the best heat pump for your Michigan home.