In a recent article in the Denver Gazette, Xcel Energy area vice president for energy and sustainability policy Jeff Lyng was interviewed about the viability of heat pumps in Colorado’s high-altitude winters. The Xcel VP raised some legitimate concerns that suggest that homeowners considering purchasing a heat pump as their primary source of home heating should take into account before making what is often a considerable investment.
Colorado Considerations
Unlike most heavily populated areas of the country, Colorado’s combination of high altitude, dry air, and cold weather tests a heat pump’s efficiency. To determine the affect those conditions have on heat pump efficiency, in 2021 Xcel partnered with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado to measure the efficiency and customer experience in about a dozen real-life situations in the state. The results show that Colorado customers need to be aware of the benefits and limitations of heat pump technology in effect at that time.
According to Lyng, heat pumps lose about 10% of their efficiency at higher altitudes. He also said that the study showed that air source heat pumps cannot heat effectively at temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. But that assessment comes with a big caveat.
That Was Then and This Is Now
When the study was conducted, they only tested one brand of whole house (ducted) heat pump (Bosch). And while Bosch is a reputable brand, the industry has made significant advances in the year or so since it was conducted.
Today, new technology leverages features like variable-speed output, vapor injection, and inverters to improve performance in both heating and cooling situations. And there are more newer models specifically designed to perform better in cold climates.
Energy Star®, the public/private partnership between the Environmental Protection Agency and hundreds of private companies, lists over 300 ducted and more than 5,000 ductless (mini-split) heat pumps along with their SEER and EEER ratings and estimated operating costs. Consumer Reports magazine, in an article published in August 2022, asked the question, “Can Heat Pumps Actually Work in Cold Climates?” Their conclusion, yes, they can, but only if carefully chosen and properly installed.
So Is a Heat Pump Right For You?
If you’re facing replacement of a ducted air conditioner or furnace, a heat pump could be an attractive choice, even in Colorado’s cold and dry climate. If you want to heat and cool a specific space—a garage, shed, auxiliary dwelling, or problem area of your home or business, for example—a ductless mini-split is an excellent option.
And with incentives and rebates offered by governments and utilities, they may be more affordable than you think.
Need Help? You’re Not Alone
Choosing a heat pump can be confusing and mistakes can be costly. Don’t hesitate to call the pros at Allstar Electrical Services for help.
Whether it’s a mini-split or a whole house ducted system, electrical work will be needed with any system you choose for your home or business. The unit(s) may need a dedicated 240-volt line as well as other wiring and connections, work that should only be done by a licensed electrical contractor. So don’t risk your comfort and safety by overlooking important electrical work to make your home improvements function at their best all year round.
Allstar Electrical Services delivers the expertise and quality results you expect and deserve for your projects, whatever your needs may be. Just give us a call at (303) 399-7420 or visit our website. Then use our handy online forms to request a free estimate or set up an appointment. We’ve served the Front Range for over 20 years, are top-rated by the Better Business Bureau and are proud to be listed as a preferred contractor by Angi’s Home Advisor.