What heat source would be most efficient for my home in Poulsbo, WA?

Right now I am trying to determine what type of heat source would be most efficient and of course economical for me. I live outside Poulsbo, WA in a house that I had built in 1994. I have a heat pump that I feel has never really given me the type of comfort that I like. I have a two story house with a garage below which makes it a little over 1500 square feet to heat. I have a wonderful little wood stove upstairs which I use constantly in the fall, winter and now spring. About 6 weeks ago I was away for the weekend and came home to 50 degrees in the house and I haven't had the time to get anything done. I have cleaned the filter, sort of cleaned up around the outside unit, pushed up the thermostat as it said to try with the troubleshooting, but to no avail. Since all it was doing was blowing cold air 24/7 to the tune of $100.00 electric bill, I just turned the system off. I don't know if I need to replace the heat pump or if I really want a heat pump. How should I replace it? If I put something in other than a heat pump, can I use the existing heat pump duct work?

Homeowner in Poulsbo, WA (Posted on April 18, 2011)

This is a great question that I see all the time. It would be hard to pinpoint exactly what is going on. It could be that your heat pump needs servicing, ducts have become disconnected somewhere, heat pump has failed or a combination of any three. An energy audit would help identify more specifically what things to consider if you are thinking about a heat pump replacement. Yes, you can reuse your ducting but they may require some tuning up as well. I hope that helps. In Kitsap county, you can get a discounted energy audit through the Kitsap Green Program.

Troy Olson
Project Manager
Washington Energy Savers

Batt + Lear

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While heat pumps are one of the most effective and energy-efficient heat sources in our Northwest climate, they require right sizing, appropriate system design (including right sized ducts, right sized refrigerant lines, even right register locations) and excellent installation in order to deliver the comfort that you and I expect in our homes. They are complex systems, but when installed right, they are very comfortable. Unfortunately, since it is likely that the heat pump you have was installed in 1994, it is likely at the end of its lifespan.

Of course, the heating system is only part of the picture. Remember the whole house is a system. It is important, if you are considering replacing your heating system, to take this opportunity to do some diagnostic work on the whole house so that you make good choices going forward. With a clear plan for air sealing, insulation upgrades (yes, even in a 1994 home!) and some routing maintenance, we can make a better plan for your next heating system.

Hope this helps!

Batt + Lear