How To Install A Heat Pump (Step By Step)

Are you looking for a better way to heat and cool your home? A heat pump is one of the most efficient means of regulating the temperature in your home. With a heat pump, you can manage your heating and cooling needs with ease.

Installing a heat pump is straightforward but does require many steps. Still, between preparation and clean-up, it’s best to hire a professional to install a heat pump. If you’re wondering what happens during the process, we’re here to give you a step-by-step guide on how to install a heat pump.

What Is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is an energy-efficient machine that cools and heats a home. The pump transfers heat from outdoors to indoors. This system lets you warm your home in the winter while cooling it in the summer heat. It automatically moves warm air or cold air depending on the needs of your home and the outdoor temperature.

Homeowners can choose between air-source heat pumps, water sources, and geothermal heat pumps. Air-source heat pumps are the most common and could improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Things To Consider Before Installing a New Heat Pump

Before buying a heat pump, you’ll need to consider several factors that will help you choose the right heat pump for your home.

Older homes with poor insulation, air leaks, or low efficiency may be ill-suited for a heat pump. Given that, you’ll need to make your home’s heating and cooling systems more efficient to get the most out of a heat pump installation.

Unsurprisingly, bigger homes need a bigger heat pump for maximum efficiency. Smaller heat pumps will struggle to push heat through a large duct system. You’ll want to speak with a professional to figure out the right size for your property.

Preparing To Install a New Heat Pump

Heat pumps feature indoor and outdoor units, such as an air handler inside a property. The external component requires some planning on your part before you can install a new heat pump.

• If you have a homeowners association (HOA), you may need approval before any home improvements.
• Ensure your home has the space for the heat pump and equipment needed to install it.
• You’ll want to have a clear timeline for the installation process so it doesn’t disrupt your day-to-day life.
• Be prepared to be without heat or cool air conditioning in your home until the installation work is finished.
• Level the space and install a composite pad before placing the new heat pump.

Disconnecting the Old Heat Pump

Your heat pump contains hazardous refrigerants, and it’s illegal to vent these chemicals into the atmosphere. That means contractors need to follow specific EPA standards while disconnecting and removing the old heat pump. A professional installer will use a recovery machine to capture the refrigerant for safe removal.

Once that’s done, the workers disconnect and install new electrical wires for the heat pump.

Installing the Heat Pump System

Now that the old system has been safely removed, it’s time to install the replacement. Let’s look at this crucial part of how to install a heat pump.

Remove the Indoor Evaporator Coil

Inside your home, the indoor evaporator coil connects to the refrigerant lines of the heat pump system. Professionals will remove this device during the installation process.

There are two types of evaporator coils used in most homes, cased and uncased. An uncased evaporator coil is particularly sensitive, meaning it needs additional steps to protect it pre-installation. Most technicians suggest using a cased coil since the casing is already part of the product.

Line Sets, Wiring, and Valves

After the evaporator coil replacement, the installers will remove the existing refrigerant lines. These copper lines run refrigerant back and forth between the heat pump and your home. The HVAC contractor welds the lines to the new heat pump to ensure a leak-free connection.

The thermostat wiring receives an inspection and upgrades if needed. There is also a valve that lets the system switch back and forth from heating to cooling. The installer may check to see if the valve needs replacing.

The heat pump is then connected to your home’s electrical system. Once connected, it’s time to set up the thermostat by activating the heating and cooling of the pump.

Outside Unit

The outdoor unit is the powerhouse of the heat pump system. It’s large and can weigh up to 300 pounds. Most installers elevate the outside unit over the composite pad. That approach reduces the risk of snow and ice getting into the coils of the unit.

You’ll need to replace an old unit before the new system installation.

How Long Does the Installation Take?

It typically takes about eight hours for a heat pump to be fully installed. Weather often adds time to the installation process. Other issues that can prolong the process include air duct alterations, electrical problems in your home, and installation of additional accessories.

Keep in mind your house will not have access to both heating and cooling until the work is finished.

Clean-Up and Closing Process for Heat Pumps

Once the installation is done, it’s time to clean up and test the heat pump. The device runs through a commissioning phase after being turned on. That lasts up to 45 minutes, during which time the pump runs and lets the refrigerant flow throughout the system.

The installer tests the heating, cooling, and defrost functions of the heat pump systems. They will also check the thermostat and other systems.

After successful testing, the contractors clean up the area and remove any debris from your home. The heat pump area should look immaculate once they’re finished.

Finally, you’ll get a walkthrough of safety, maintenance, thermostat operations, and other instructions.

Heat Pump Installation, Final Thoughts

Now you know how to install a heat pump. A heat pump is one of the best ways to heat and cool your home while cutting your electricity consumption.

It can reduce your dependency on your air conditioner and natural gas. And reducing your power consumption makes financial sense as you could save money on your utility bills.

Our experienced HVAC installation team is ready to install your new heat pump today. Contact us today for more information.