Executive Insight: Every American Home Should Have a Heat Pump, But What’s Taking So Long?

By Brian Bonar, CEO and Chairman

Heating and cooling have always been a concern for American homeowners. And now with the cold Winter season rapidly approaching, heating is definitely on the minds of many.

Along with seasonal changes come concerns of efficiency. As the world continues to deal with rising energy costs and an increased focus on reducing carbon emissions, homeowners are increasingly turning to modern options such as heat pumps as a sustainable alternative to traditional heating systems.

Exposing the Unknowns

While heat pumps are rather common and have been in use in regions of the world such as Europe for years, questions surrounding them and their benefits persist here in the United States. And, despite several state or community regulations already promoting sustainability and even identifying heat pumps as clean energy solutions—like New York City’s Local Law 97—people are asking questions:

How much do they cost?
How difficult is the installation?
Are they reliable?
Is a heat pump right for where I live?

Clearly, American homeowners face several challenges when trying to buy and install heat pumps. But why is it so difficult and what’s taking so long to adopt heat pump technology? Below are the reasons why.

Key Reasons & Difficulties

1. Upfront Costs

While heat pumps are known for their energy efficiency and cost-saving benefits— particularly in the long run—the initial investment can be quite steep and is a barrier for many homeowners.

According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of installing a heat pump in the U.S. ranges from $5,645 to $9,580. This cost includes not only the price of the equipment but also labor and any necessary upgrades to existing HVAC systems.

Thankfully, despite the seemingly high upfront costs, government incentives and rebates can help offset some of those costs, especially for those that might be negatively be affected, such as middle and lower-income households.

2. Limited Installer Experience

Unfortunately, not all HVAC contractors are familiar with the latest heat pump technology, particularly those designed for colder climates. Finding an experienced and knowledgeable installer can be difficult, especially in areas where heat pumps haven’t yet gained widespread popularity. This can lead to longer wait times and less optimal installations.

Installing a home heat pump often involves more than just replacing an old furnace or air conditioning unit. It requires specialized knowledge and skills, and sometimes additional components like a ground-source loop or a duct system. This complexity can make installation time-consuming and costly, further deterring homeowners.

3. Limited Availability

The availability of heat pumps can also be a challenge for Americans looking to install them in their homes. Compared to legacy heating systems like boilers and furnaces, heat pumps represent modern, innovative technology and may not be readily available in certain areas. This can make it difficult for homeowners to purchase the necessary equipment for installation or find qualified contractors.

Additionally, recent global supply chain disruptions have impacted the availability of heat pumps. Shortages in materials, manufacturing delays, and increased demand for these energy-efficient systems have all contributed to longer wait times and higher prices for heat pumps in the U.S. and around the world.

4. Compatibility with Older Homes

Older homes, especially those that lack modern insulation or ductwork, may require additional upgrades to support the installation of a heat pump. These upgrades can include improving insulation or installing ductless systems, for example, which add to the complexity and cost of switching to a heat pump.

5. Regional Misconceptions

Many Americans, particularly in colder regions, still believe the myth that heat pumps aren’t effective in extreme winter conditions. While this idea has been largely debunked in recent years due to major advancements made in heat pump innovation, the cold-climate perception lingers, making some homeowners hesitant to invest in the cutting-edge technology.

6. Lack of Consumer Awareness

Heat pumps are relatively new to many U.S. consumers, especially when compared to gas furnaces and traditional air conditioners. Many homeowners are simply not familiar with heat pumps and their benefits, and may be hesitant to invest in something they don’t fully understand. This lack of knowledge also extends to HVAC contractors who may not be well-versed or properly trained in installing or servicing heat pumps.

Conclusion

While heat pumps offer a promising, energy-efficient alternative to traditional HVAC systems, various challenges have slowed their widespread adoption in the U.S. From high upfront costs to lingering cold weather misconceptions and myths, these barriers must be addressed as the demand for sustainable home heating and cooling solutions grows.

The benefits of installing a heat pump cannot be ignored. From lower energy bills to reduced carbon emissions, they offer obvious advantages for homeowners. As technology continues to advance and consumer awareness increases, the struggle to install home heat pumps will likely become less of an issue in the future. In the meantime, it’s important for homeowners to be informed about their options and consider all factors before updating their heating and cooling systems.

Lastly, we must continue to advocate for policies and incentives that make heat pumps more accessible and affordable for all Americans. By working together, we can overcome barriers and pave the way for a greener and more energy-efficient future. Let’s work together to make home heat pumps a viable option for all American homeowners.

Sources:
U.S. Dept. Of Energy
The Guardian
Home Advisor
DSIRE
Dalrada Home
Wired