Heat pumps are increasingly being purchased by homeowners looking for energy-efficient options, yet much misinformation exists about these versatile systems.

Today we debunk heat pump myths with heat pump facts so you can make your home (and your monthly utility bills!) more comfortable.

FACT: One of the biggest misconceptions about heat pumps is that they only work in temperate or mild climates - not true.

Most efficient heat pumps, such as the Thermia Calibra, can handle temperatures down to -30 degrees Celsius for average-sized homes. So heat pumps are an excellent choice for our Belgian homes.

FACT: Although people usually think of heat pumps as heating, names can be misleading. Heat pumps use a mechanical-compression cooling system that can heat or cool your home depending on the season.

This means you only need one system year-round to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors.

FACT: What does a heat pump cost? This question is often asked, but is actually wrong. It's better to ask what the heat pump will save you. In fact, the savings on your energy bill can be substantial, so you will always recoup the cost of a heat pump versus a central heating boiler within its lifetime.

In addition to saving costs, you are also doing your part for a cleaner earth by emitting less CO2. The principle of the heat pump has been in use for over 35 years and has been fully developed, making today's heat pumps very energy efficient.

The consumption of a heat pump is expressed as the Coefficient of Performance, or COP for short. The COP is the ratio between the amount of heat emitted versus the electricity consumption (power consumption) of the heat pump. The higher the COP, the less electricity is consumed and the more economical the heat pump operates.

Heat pumps extract more energy than they consume by moving existing airborne heat into or out of your home.

FACT: Heat pumps used to make a lot of noise, but modern air pump technology has evolved into much quieter systems. The noise level of a heat pump with outdoor unit has been subject to strict(er) requirements since 2021. For example, the Thermia Calibra heat pump has a noise level of 28 dB, which corresponds to the sound of rustling leaves.

Thermia Calibra

As long as your heat pump is properly installed by a professional, you will enjoy whisper-quiet heating and cooling regardless of the season.

FACT: Rumor has it that heat pumps burn out faster because they operate year-round. The reality is that as long as your heat pump is properly maintained, high-quality models will last at least 15-20 years.

With heat pumps, you can find the perfect balance between comfort and savings year-round. Interested in speaking with one of our energy consultants? Give us a call!