Heat pumps and air handlers explained
Understand what the outdoor heat pump, indoor air handler and backup heat each do, and what to check before a whole-home upgrade in Creston or the Kootenays.
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Explore heat pump options for your home
Considering heating and cooling in one system? Start with your current equipment, the areas you want to serve and what you’d like to change.
Send your community, current equipment if known, and what you want to change. A request starts the conversation; the team will confirm the next step.
Start with the job you need it to do
A heat pump can provide heating and cooling. The useful starting question is whether you want to serve the whole home or particular spaces.
Ducted or ductless?
Ask whether existing ducts can support a ducted heat pump, or whether indoor units serving selected areas would fit the home.
What is an air handler?
An air handler is the indoor blower-and-coil unit often paired with a ducted heat pump. It moves warmed or cooled air through your home’s ducts. It does not burn gas or propane like a fuel-burning furnace. Depending on the design, electric heating elements may be added for supplemental or backup heat; they’re not part of every air handler. Ask what indoor equipment and backup heating, if any, are included in the proposed system.
Plan for your winter conditions
Ask how the proposed equipment’s cold-weather output compares with the home’s heating needs, and whether another heat source is needed. Selection should reflect the property and local conditions.
Include these details
- Your community and current heating system.
- Whether cooling is already installed.
- Rooms that are difficult to keep comfortable.
- Whether you want a whole-home change or a smaller addition.
Questions about this service
Can a heat pump work with my existing system?
Some installations retain an existing heat source. Equipment, controls and intended coverage need to be assessed together. Describe the current system when you enquire.
Will I need new ductwork?
That depends on the approach. Existing ducts need assessment for a ducted heat pump; a ductless option serves spaces without connecting to the home’s central ducts.
Can you recommend a size from my floor area?
Floor area alone is not enough for an equipment selection. The design needs a calculation of the building’s heating and cooling requirements.
Helpful guides
Explore the equipment, options and questions behind your next step.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Tell us what you need.
Share your community, the type of property and a little about your project or system.