Portland Heat Pumps vs. Ductless Heat Pumps

If you’re considering installing a heat pump in your Portland home, you make a great choice. Heat pumps are the most energy-efficient option for home heating and cooling, which means they save you money while also helping to save the planet.

Heat pumps work like air conditioners, but better. A traditional air conditioner uses condensing cooling fluid to capture heat from the air in your home and then moves it outside – leaving cold air behind. What makes heat pumps different is that they can do this same thing in reverse. When it’s cold inside, they can take ambient heat from the outside air and pump it inside your home. So, they’re a two-in-one solution for all your home climate control needs!

Heat pumps are becoming standard in new construction, and more are installed in existing homes daily. However, one decision is whether you get a standard heat pump or a new ductless heat pump system?

What Are Ductless Heat Pumps?

Ductless heat pumps are the latest innovation in heat pump technology. Rather than a single central unit in your basement, ductless heat pumps (also called mini-splits) are miniaturized self-contained units installed in each room. These connect to smaller units on the outside and require no ductwork because each room has its blower.

This gives you total control of your home’s temperature room-by-room. You don’t have to fight over the thermostat because everyone can set their room’s temperature as they like. You can also shut down air in rooms you aren’t using to save more energy.

Ductless Portland Heat Pumps vs. Regular Heat Pumps

Either option might be right for you, depending on your situation.

Ductless heat pumps are better when:

An older home doesn’t already have ductwork, which is expensive to install.

Extensive upgrades would harm a historic home.

People in your house have many different ideas of a comfortable temperature.

You have specific climate needs in some rooms, such as owning plants or exotic pets that require higher temperatures than people enjoy.

You have people in your home that suffer from allergies, which can be made worse by dirty ductwork.

You want to maximize your climate control energy savings.

However, ductless heat pumps may not always be the right choice. In particular:

Installation costs can become high in houses with many rooms since each needs its dedicated blower and outdoor unit.

You don’t want to add several outdoor units to your home, which some consider unsightly.

You want to continue using your existing ductwork since it’s there.

Which Portland Heat Pumps Are Right for You?

Mt. Hood Ductless is your top source for the best in Portland heat pump systems! We can work with you to understand your needs and help you find the best possible heat pump for your needs. Contact us for a consultation!