subject: Heat Pumps: A Guide on Benefits and Prices [print this page] Heat Pumps: A Guide on Benefits and Prices
Heat pump prices vary not only because of the brands but also because of the kind of heat pumps. Consumers usually choose between the two kinds of heat pumps and their variants: the air source heat pump and the geothermal heat pump. The heat pump prices for these four vary from region to region and usually exclude insulation, ducts and installation fees.
Air source heat pumps draw air from the atmosphere to use as a heat source. The air source heat pump can regulate temperature in an entire house during mild to moderate weather conditions and will cost $2000 to $5000 in energy costs. Higher capacity pumps have both indoor and outdoor sets that can cost around $6000.
Dual fuel heat pumps are a kind of air source heat pumps that combine the functions of an electric heater and a gas furnace. It is more frequently used in regions that have moderate to an occasional freezing weather. Dual fuel heat pumps are more expensive to maintain because they use two energy sources and consume energy at a faster rate. Smaller pumps range from $2000 to $5000, and bigger pumps can cost up to $10,000.
Another kind of air source heat pump is the absorption heat pumps. They are relatively new to the market, and are powered by a heat source such as solar heated water or bio gas. Despite being a new concept, the absorption heat pumps are expensive and could cost up to $20,000. The advantage of using absorption heat pumps, however, is that they can function using any heat source as power. They are also still capable of designating zones of temperature regulation in a building. Absorption heat pumps can work effectively in places without electricity.
On the other hand, geothermal heat pumps use ground heat, which is far more stable than atmospheric air. This costly heat pump costs from $10,000 to $25,000, not including the fee for its tedious installation. But the benefits from owning a geothermal heat pump include lower electricity consumption through the use of renewable energy sources and a stable heat source.
Researching extensively about heat pumps is a must before buying any one of them. Aside from purchase of the unit, additional costs for installing and maintenance will affect final heat pump prices. Considering the benefits each pump will provide for you in the long run is also an important consideration.
