Why more Rhode Islanders are choosing Heat Pumps over traditional AC this summer

by Rhode Island Energy

Why More Rhode Islanders are Choosing Heat Pumps Over Traditional AC this Summer

As the summer heat rolls into Rhode Island, many homeowners are looking for a smarter way to stay comfortable while cutting back on energy usage and taking control of their utility bills.

To accomplish that goal, more and more Rhode Islanders are switching from their existing AC system to heat pumps, a cooling solution that delivers energy efficiency not just in the summer, but all year long. With an electric heat pump, one system meets your home’s needs year-round by providing cooling in the summer and heating in the winter.

Assessing the Costs of Heat Pumps vs. Traditional AC Systems

During heatwaves and muggy days, heat pumps can keep your home cool and dry—often using up to 30 percent less energy than a traditional AC unit, according to HomeGuide. That kind of efficiency can lead to substantial monthly savings and stack up to hundreds of dollars a year. High-efficiency heat pumps also dehumidify better than standard central air conditioners.

While heat pumps tend to come with a higher upfront cost than standard central AC systems, according to HomeGuide, when you factor in the added cost of a furnace for winter heating, the total for an AC/furnace combo makes the price difference more comparable.

Additionally, homeowners can offset the initial upfront costs with incentives on heat pumps. Up to $2,000 of tax credits are available from the federal government’s Inflation Reduction Act.

Rhode Island Energy also offers incentives on heat pumps with a current promotion that gives up to $1,400 per ton back when you install a qualifying heat pump system using a participating contractor. Taking advantage of a Home Energy Assessment will unlock additional savings and rebates from Rhode Island Energy.

Income-eligible households may also qualify for 100 percent coverage of both equipment and installation of heat pumps through the energy company.

Understanding How Heat Pumps Work

In summer, heat pumps pull warm air out of your home and release it outside. Unlike AC units, heat pumps can reverse this process in winter, extracting heat from the outside air and bringing it indoors. This dual functionality makes heat pumps an excellent year-round solution for total comfort. According to the Department of Energy, today’s heat pumps can reduce your electricity use for heating by up to 75% compared to electric resistance heating such as furnaces with baseboards.

Air source heat pumps are centralized systems that provide whole-home cooling and heating. Mini-split heat pumps are ideal for homes without ductwork or with rooms that are used occasionally, allowing you to zone specific rooms when they aren’t in use.

Learn more about heat pumps and incentives that may be available at Rhode Island Energy by visiting www.rienergy.com/heatpumps. If you have other questions, please contact call 1-844-615-8315 or email HVAC@CLEAResult.com.