Not L/C related but, question about heat pumps

[VA.CRUISER]

Can any of you guys tell me about how well heat pumps work in our area ?

I'm looking into systems to replace my current oil boiler system and if anyone does this for a living let me know.

Thanks
Burl

[greytandy]

Originally Posted by VA.CRUISER

Can any of you guys tell me about how well heat pumps work in our area ?

I'm looking into systems to replace my current oil boiler system and if anyone does this for a living let me know.

Thanks
Burl

They suck in this area. In really cold weather they're very inefficient. They're appropriate for a more southern climate. I don't do this for a living - just based on my experience.

[Jakes40]

when it get to cold they don't pump heat you need a secondary heat source most people use electric in duct heaters it depends on how warm you keep your house with the little one it will not keep it warm enough. I'm keeping my baseboard heat for those very cold nights. My biggest problem is the air conditioner. I’m tired of the window units.

[fjman]

Where are you located? I know a great HVAC guy. He owns Squires HVAC in the Warrenton/Gainsville area. Very honest guy which is a rarity in the world of heating and AC........ Plus, he comes out and does free accessments/estimates.

Andrew

Originally Posted by VA.CRUISER

Can any of you guys tell me about how well heat pumps work in our area ?

I'm looking into systems to replace my current oil boiler system and if anyone does this for a living let me know.

Thanks
Burl

[splitrock]

I am a homebuilder and have used many systems over the years. I agree that a heat pump is probobly not the way to go. When the temperature goes below 40 degrees they become very inefficient to operate and the back up electric heat strips withinn the unit kick on. I assume that since you currenty have a boiler your home is heated via hot water base board, radiators or a heat exchange coil. It is probobly most economical to just swap out your boiler for an updated efficient unit. Even with the price of oil as high as it is, the new boilers only turn on when the need for heat or hot water is called for. To get a better idea check out this website http://www.radiantmax.com/r-munchkin-boilers.html. It may help explain things for you. I would also recomend J&E Mechanical in Warrenton or Air Dynamics in Fredericksburg. I currently work with both companies and they service the N. VA area. Good Luck

[HeadCase]

Considered a heat pump with backup gas? (if available)

We just had a HE system (Carrier) like that installed, and it works great...

[VA.CRUISER]

Thanks guys I'm trying to see what is available and whats my best option. Theres gas on my street but the odd thing is it's on the other side of the street the whole way but on my side it ends 3 houses up So I'm checking into all options.

fjman- I'm in Winchester so I'm not sure if he does work in this area but would like to talk to him

splitrock- I'll check out that site thanks for the info

headcase-thats another option I was looking at if I can get the gas here

Thanks again
Burl