Heat Pump Installs
Heat Pump Installs | Heating and Air Conditioning | Knoxville
Kick back in year-round comfort with HEP’s expert heat pump installs in Knoxville. Our certified technicians size, place, and fine-tune each system to squeeze every drop of efficiency from East Tennessee’s mild winters and muggy summers. By seamlessly switching between efficient electric heating and whisper-quiet cooling, a modern heat pump can slash energy bills while keeping your indoor air fresh and perfectly balanced.
Whether you’re replacing an outdated furnace, building a new home, or looking to cut your carbon footprint, HEP delivers a turnkey experience—from transparent estimates to meticulous cleanup. You’ll enjoy smart-thermostat compatibility, industry-leading warranties, and 24/7 support from a local team that treats you like family. For Knoxville homeowners who demand reliable heating and air conditioning without the sticker shock of separate systems, HEP’s heat pump installations are the clear choice.
FAQs
How does a heat pump provide both heating and cooling?
A heat pump uses refrigeration technology to move heat rather than create it. In winter, the outdoor unit extracts latent heat from the outside air—even when it is below freezing—and transfers it indoors via refrigerant. In summer, the cycle reverses, pulling heat from inside your home and releasing it outdoors, just like a traditional air conditioner. Because it transfers heat instead of generating it, a heat pump can deliver up to three units of heating or cooling for every unit of electricity consumed, making it highly energy-efficient.
Are heat pumps efficient in Knoxville’s climate?
Yes. Knoxville’s moderate winters and warm summers are ideal for air-source heat pumps. Modern units with variable-speed inverter compressors maintain comfortable indoor temperatures even when outdoor temps dip into the low 20s °F. You can expect seasonal energy efficiency ratios (SEER2) of 15–20 for cooling and heating seasonal performance factors (HSPF2) of 7.5–9.5. Compared with electric resistance heat, a properly sized heat pump can cut winter heating costs by 40–60 %, and compared with a 15-year-old air conditioner it can reduce summer cooling costs by 20–30 %.
What size heat pump does my home need?
Correct sizing depends on your home’s square footage, insulation levels, window quality, orientation, duct design, and even how many people live there. Our technicians perform a Manual J load calculation to determine the precise heating and cooling loads room-by-room. Oversizing can cause short-cycling and humidity problems, while undersizing will leave you uncomfortable on peak-temperature days. After the load calculation we’ll recommend the tonnage (capacity) and efficiency level that best matches your comfort goals and budget.
What rebates or incentives are available for heat pump installations in Knoxville?
Several programs can lower your upfront cost: • Federal tax credit: Up to 30 % of the installed cost (maximum $2,000) for ENERGY STAR certified heat pumps through 2032. • Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) EnergyRight rebate: $250–$600 for qualifying high-efficiency units installed by a Quality Contractor Network member. • Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) eScore financing: Low-interest, on-bill financing for energy-efficient HVAC upgrades. • Manufacturer rebates: Seasonal promotions from brands like Trane, Daikin, and Carrier may provide $200–$1,000 back. We’ll handle the paperwork and verify the equipment ratings so you receive every dollar you’re eligible for.
How long does heat pump installation take and what should I expect?
Most residential heat pump replacements are completed in one day. A new install where ducts already exist typically takes 6–10 hours; adding or modifying ductwork can extend the project to two days. Our process includes: 1. Pre-install inspection and load calculation 2. Removal and environmentally responsible disposal of old equipment 3. Setting the outdoor and indoor units, leveling the pad, and installing vibration isolators 4. Connecting refrigerant and condensate lines, wiring, and communicating thermostats 5. Pulling a deep vacuum, charging the system with R-410A or R-454B refrigerant, and verifying superheat/subcool 6. Startup, performance testing, and customer orientation We obtain any required Knox County permits and schedule the final inspection.
What maintenance does a heat pump need and how long will it last?
Heat pumps require the same basic care as an air conditioner plus a winter performance check. Key tasks include: • Replace or clean filters every 30–90 days • Rinse outdoor coils each spring and fall • Inspect electrical connections, refrigerant charge, and condensate drain annually • Lubricate blower and outdoor fan motors if applicable With professional maintenance twice a year, most modern heat pumps last 12–15 years; some variable-speed premium models reach 18–20 years. Regular service keeps efficiency high, maintains manufacturer warranties, and minimizes unexpected breakdowns.