As New York State experiences the extremes of both frigid winters and scorching summers, costs associated with heating and cooling are a concern throughout the year for many North Country residents. Heating fuels such as propane and natural gas come with high carbon footprints and even higher fuel costs that are increasing steadily each year. In addition, air conditioners are one of the largest electricity users in the average home, adding significant costs to summer energy bills. To help homeowners save money on these expenses, New York has invested heavily in making heat pumps, which are highly efficient heating and cooling systems, more accessible to state residents than ever before!
Heat pumps draw warmth from a surprising source, cold winter air! These systems operate on two basic laws of thermodynamics: heat is always drawn to colder areas, and pressure increases the temperature. Heat pumps contain a refrigerant that is always kept colder than outdoor air, thus can draw the air into the system. The refrigerant and air are then moved to a compressor where the two heat up quickly due to the high pressure, reaching around 100F. The warm refrigerant is then moved through a coil to an indoor unit where the heat is released into the home. Finally, the refrigerant is moved back outside through an expansion valve where it is depressurized and cooled so the process can start again. Heat pumps also operate in reverse, drawing indoor heat and moving it outside to provide cooling in the summer.
Most heat pumps are rated to provide heating when outdoor temperatures are at or higher than -15F. If used when the outdoors is colder than what the unit is rated for, the heat pump may struggle to keep your home at the desired temperature and experience unwanted strain. It is recommended to have a backup heating system to use when outdoor conditions are too cold for the heat pump to function properly. There are many options for backup heating systems including wood, pellets, or electrical resistance heaters. Heat pumps can help residents lower heating and cooling costs while also supporting New York’s goals to reduce statewide emissions that contribute to climate change. While the upfront costs of heat pump systems can be high, there are many rebates, programs, and financing options available to help offset the initial cost.
To find out more about these programs, contact your local energy advisor today!
Written by: Nolan Rishe - Energy Advisor for St. Lawrence & Franklin Counties