Heat pumps have had a poor reputation for providing optimum comfort in a home due to the low temperature air that they generate at the supply vents. Oil-fired and gas-fired furnaces provide heated are that is 15 to 20 degrees warmer at the supply vents. Often a hybrid heating system can be installed that uses either heating oil or natural gas as a back-up when temperatures are at the coldest during the winter months.
Heat pumps work best in well‐insulated and well‐sealed homes. The ducts must be tactically placed to collect cool air in the winter and hot air in the summer. When you operate a heat pump make sure to find a comfortable setting and leave it alone. It is recommended to place the settings of the heat pump at 68°F in the winter, and 78°F in the summer. If the thermostat is adjusted frequently in the winter, auxiliary electric heat can be activated which can contradict the efficiency of the unit. In addition, change the filters regularly to a MERV rating of 6 or greater. If you preform the basic maintenance procedures it will help your unit to run at its optimum capacity.