Here at Alaska Heat Smart, we’re well aware of homeowners’ need for good sound information. Heat pumps are different from the heating systems of the past. And every home is different than the next. From levels of insulation, open or closed floor plans, ability of air movement, and the existence of one, two, or maybe three legacy heating systems – no two homes are alike. Each home presents it own interesting heat pump puzzle. Figuring out how a heat pump will successfully join your home’s heating mix can require a bit of research, analysis, and learning.
Along with the diversity of home types is a diversity of personal learning styles. Some of you will be quick to reach out to Alaska Heat Smart for guidance. (Of course, we highly recommend such a step!) Others may hope to build a bit of foundation before consulting our energy advisors, diving into the wealth of websites, literature, and media available on the latest and greatest heat pump solutions.
The Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnership (NEEP) Air Source Heat Pump Buying Guide (V5) is a fantastic resource, whether you scan it before a home energy assessment or after. We’ve added this guide to our resource library, found on our resources page. If you’re the type to cozy up with a hot toddy and an engaging and compelling read, this NEEP guide may be the ticket for you! It’s loaded with not only the heat pump basics, but step by step instructions for how to proceed with your decision making.
If we were to rewrite this guide, we’d change up the ‘How to Proceed’ steps that begin on page 13. To step one we’d add that homeowners should apply for an Alaska Heat Smart home energy assessment. This process takes care of a few of the NEEP steps and addresses some of the unit sizing concerns indicated in Step 4. Despite this flaw in the guide, and considering the likely fact that when written, NEEP was unaware of AK Heat Smart, the guide is a valuable and very handy resource!
Speaking of resources, be sure to check out our financial assistance programs page to learn more about the many ways that Alaska Heat Smart can financially assist with your heat pump purchase and installation.