Heating and Cooling
Stay Comfortable with High-Efficiency Heating and Cooling
Heating accounts for an estimated 70% of energy use in most homes, which makes electrifying them a great way to reduce your carbon emissions while staying comfortable at home. In Minnesota, considering our cold climate is an especially important part of choosing a heating system. You may also want to think about whether you’d like your heating system to provide cooling, too, such as with an air source heat pump (ASHP) In addition, weatherization measures, like air sealing and insulation, are important to make your heating system work more effectively and efficiently.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are like air conditioners that can run in both directions, heating your home or cooling it. ASHPs move heat, instead of making it, so they’re more energy efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems. They can also help your home feel more comfortable while reducing carbon emissions. The type of ASHP that will work for your home will depend on the ductwork, the climate, and other factors.
For most people and homes, ASHPs offer the best blend of affordability, efficiency, and flexibility. With more contractors installing ASHPs and more financial incentives available, now is an ideal time to consider making the switch.
Other Electric Heating and Cooling Options
Other efficient electric heating options, like ground source heat pumps or air-to-water heat pumps, exist, but they come with higher upfront costs and more installation constraints, making them impractical for many people.
Heating and Cooling FAQs
Yes! Modern cold climate heat pump technology is highly efficient down to around 5°F, depending on your system. Some systems will be effective down to -20°F. Due to Minnesota’s frigid winters, you must still have a supplementary heating system for the coldest days, but choosing a cold climate model allows you to use the heat pump more and the supplementary system less.
Yes! Air source heat pumps work like two-way air conditioners. In hot weather, they move hot air outside the home, cooling the indoor space. In the winter, they work in reverse, taking ambient heat and moving it inside to keep you warm. Both options are highly efficient, and lead to more even, consistent indoor temperatures.
Yes. Homes of all ages and sizes can use heat pump technology to heat and cool their homes. The primary consideration in older homes is whether the home has existing ductwork. Homes with ductwork, usually homes with a furnace or a central air conditioner, can use ducted heat pumps, while homes without ductwork must use ductless systems, or mini-splits. Both types of systems offer the same benefits: Efficient, consistent heating and cooling.
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