We are building new home in Mich. We use propane to heat or I can install an air to air heat pump-Is this wise

Question

I know that GeoThermal is the best, but it's VERY expensive. Is a air to air heat pump worth the money over a 90 percent propane furnace?

Answer 1

Air-to-air heat pumps are not a good option for Michigan winters. Normally, an electric heating element is energized when the heat pump cannot keep up in times of extreme cold. Heat pumps are expensive to install and can have more service and repair bills than a conventional forced-air furnace. I always adhere to the K.I.S.S. rule when making major decisions. (Keep it simple, Stupid) Go with the tried and true which is fuel oil or propane. Fuel costs are anything but stable lately so there's no telling what they'll be from one winter to the next. If they get bad, you can always install a corn or pellet stove if they prove to be the cheaper choice. Good luck.

Answer 2

My experience with heat pumps (air to air) is that they don't work well when the temperature drops below about 25 degrees F. At this point, you end up using the eletrical back-up heat strip. I don't know if it would be worthwhile to install a seperate heating system with propane for the colder periods or not. You'll have to determine the added costs with such a set-up.

Answer 3

Let me tell you this. I live in northern Florida where it does get cold and I have a heat pump style unit and let me tell you that if you have freezing weather, a heat pump is not sufficient for you as you will freeze to death trying to get it to heat your home. On mornings when the temps dip into the teens, the thermostat must be set quite high in order to not blow cool/cold air.....