Heat Pump Installation

The duration of heat pump installation can vary based on different factors, such as the type of heat pump being installed and the complexity of your home's layout or existing HVAC systems. Typically, we can install a heat pump in one to three days.

Your heat pump will require a sturdy and level base for proper operation. At Aviator Heating & Cooling, we offer two options: gravel or concrete. Gravel bases are a cost-effective solution that provides good drainage, while concrete bases offer a more durable and stable platform for the unit.

That's a great question, as it can be confusing. The simplest way to think about it is that a "ductless mini-split" is just one specific type of heat pump system.

• A Central Heat Pump (which this page focuses on) is a "ducted" system. It uses an outdoor unit and a single indoor unit (called an air handler) to distribute hot or cold air through your home's existing ductwork, just like a traditional furnace or central AC.

• A Ductless Mini-Split is a "non-ducted" system. It uses the same outdoor heat pump technology but connects to one or more indoor "heads" that are mounted directly on the wall or ceiling of a room.

We typically recommend a central heat pump installation if you already have ductwork in good condition. We recommend a ductless system for older homes without ducts, for new home additions, or to solve comfort problems in specific rooms (like a bonus room or garage)

Depending on the installation type, we may need to make small cuts to your home. For ductless mini-split systems, a small hole (typically around 3 inches) is required to connect the outdoor and indoor units. We ensure that any modifications are minimal and sealed properly to prevent air leaks or damage to your home.

If your current electrical system cannot support the power demands of a new heat pump, you may need to upgrade your wiring. This depends on the system’s size and efficiency. During our initial inspection, we assess your home’s electrical setup to determine if upgrades are necessary and discuss the best course of action with you.

Yes, absolutely. A heat pump can replace your furnace entirely, which is known as an "all-electric" system.

In this type of installation, we remove your indoor gas furnace and replace it with a new indoor unit called an Air Handler. This air handler contains the fan (blower) and a set of auxiliary electric heat strips (also called 'emergency heat').

For 95% of the Oregon winter, the heat pump itself will efficiently heat your home. On the absolute coldest days of the year, the system will automatically use those auxiliary heat strips to supplement the heat pump and ensure your home stays perfectly warm. The alternative, which we often recommend, is the Hybrid System, where the heat pump works with your existing furnace, and the furnace itself acts as the backup instead of electric strips.

With regular maintenance, a heat pump can last between 10 to 15 years, on average. Some high-quality models may even last up to 20 years.

Regular maintenance for a heat pump includes cleaning or replacing filters, cleaning the outdoor unit, and having it inspected annually by a professional HVAC technician to ensure it's operating at peak efficiency.

Heat pumps are most efficient in moderate climates, but advancements in technology have made certain types of heat pumps, such as cold climate heat pumps, effective even in colder temperatures. Oregon offers a temperate climate which is ideal for heat pump efficiency.

Most heat pumps come with a warranty that covers defects in manufacturing and craftsmanship. The length of the warranty can vary, but typically ranges from 5 to 10 years. It's important to fully understand the terms of your heat pump warranty, including what actions could potentially void it.  We can discuss these with you during an estimate.

While all heat pumps make some noise, the amount of noise can vary depending on the make and model. Many modern heat pumps are designed to operate quietly and may be quieter than your existing heating or cooling system.

If you choose a ducted heat pump system and you already have ductwork in your home, we will need to assess your existing ductwork's suitability. If your ductwork is in good condition, it may be possible to use it with your new heat pump.