Heat Pump FAQ
Answers to all your heat pump questions here in our heat pump faq!!
Q. Is a heat pump the best solution for my home?
A. Yes, ducted heat pumps and ductless heat pumps are one of the best home heating options for residents of Victoria and Vancouver Island. Our moderate climate lends itself to having your system work very efficiently for your home. Installing a heat pump will help you save money on your home heating bills, clean the air in your home and dehumidify your home in hot summer months.
Q. Do I need ductwork to have a heat pump in my home?
A. No. Ductless heat pumps are an excellent and very popular alternative to conventional ducted systems.
Q. Will my system require back-up heat?
A. While some systems will require a supplementary heat source for when the outside temperature gets too low, Victoria’s mild weather allows residents to enjoy the benefits of VRF heat pumps, which produce heat efficiently even in extreme temperatures. The performance of these systems often negates the need for supplementary heat. The end result is a significantly more efficient system which means lower operating costs!
Q. How often should I be replacing my filter? And what should i be replacing it with?
A. For your average residential filter 1” – 3”, manufacturers basically tell you to change them bi-monthly which is a great rule of thumb but may not suit your individual needs. Here are some guidelines:
- Vacation home or single occupant homes without pets or allergies: change 6-12 months
- Typical suburban home without pets: change every 90 days
- House with a pet: change every 60 days
- Multiple pets or allergies: change every 30-45 days
When choosing what kind of filter you need, it is important to remember that airflow is a critical component of your system. Disposable pleated filters are constructed of paper and polyester and do a good job at filtering most household particles and allergens, however, they may limit airflow. Disposable fiberglass filters filter out less allergens and finer particles though will allow greater airflow. The higher the cost of the filter, the more dust and particles it will collect. We recommend finding a balance that works for you between indoor air quality and the frequency in which you change filters.
Q. How long will my heat pump last?
A. The life of your heat pump depends on many factors, such as the type of heat pump, your location and how well and often it is maintained. Heat pumps normally last an average of 18 years. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems require proper and regular maintenance in order to work efficiently. Foster’s experienced team will work with you to help maximize the life of your system.
Q. How much will the system cost?
A. Foster Heating & Cooling offers a full range of heat pump and furnace options with respect to efficiency and cost to suit every budget. This includes new variable speed or VRF models from Trane and Mitsubishi. These systems offer exception performance in cold weather and are among the quietest systems available. The cost will depend on factors such as the size of your home, the type of system you are installing, the brand of equipment, electrical needs, ducting needs and so on. Our friendly, experienced service team is happy to visit your home and provide a free, no-obligation assessment and quotation.