Heat pumps are an energy efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners. Heat pumps provide both air conditioning and heating for your home using the same equipment. During the winter, heat pumps move heat from the cool outdoors into your warm house; during the summer, heat pumps move heat from your house outdoors to keep your house cool. Since they move heat, heat pumps can be up to 4 times or 5 times more efficient than furnaces and central air conditioners that rely on heat generation.

The air-source heat pumps make up the majority of heat pumps in use. Air-source heat pumps transfer heat between your house and the outside air. A high efficiency heat pump can reduce your electricity use for heating 30%–40%. High-efficiency heat pumps also remove more moisture from your air than standard central air conditioners which provides greater dehumidifying. A heat pump requires less energy usage and more comfort in the summer . Heat pumps are ideal for the moderate climate of central Oregon.

Higher efficiencies are achieved with geothermal (ground-source or water-source) heat pumps, which transfer heat between your house and the ground or a nearby water source. Although they cost more to install, geothermal heat pumps have low operating costs because they take advantage of relatively constant ground or water temperatures. Central Oregon Heating installs geothermal heat pumps in Bend, Redmond, Madras, Prineville, Sunriver and Sisters, Oregon.

For homes without ducts, air-source heat pumps are also available in a ductless version called a mini-split heat pump. Mini-splits can also be a good choice for room additions, where extending or installing distribution ductwork is not feasible.

Mini-split systems allow you to set the temperature in each room independently. Since mini-split heat pumps do not have an extensive duct work system, they are easy to install. As an experienced contractor, Central Oregon Heating can install your mini-split system in little more than a day.

Advantages of Mini-Splits

• Energy efficient
• Small size – outdoor units are compact, taking up little space.
• Flexibility for zoning or heating and cooling individual rooms.
• Easy installation-small foot print.
• No ductwork means no 30% energy loss associated with central forced air ducts. 
• More flexibility in interior design options.