In 2022, heat pumps surpassed gas furnaces in North American sales, signaling a transformative shift in the HVAC industry. Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are gaining traction as efficient, versatile solutions for both heating and cooling in residential and commercial buildings. With advancements in technology, these systems now perform effectively across a wide range of climates, including colder regions.

For HVAC contractors, staying ahead of this trend is crucial. A deep understanding of how heat pumps work, the benefits they offer, and the best practices for installation is essential to meet growing customer demand and ensure optimal system performance.

This growing popularity highlights the importance of knowing why air source heat pumps are becoming the preferred choice for many.  

Why Air Source Heat Pumps?

Including air source heat pumps in your bid process with homeowners is a strategic way to enhance your value proposition, differentiate your business, and meet the growing demand for modern energy solutions. Heat pumps are a highly efficient technology that provide both heating and cooling, offering homeowners year-round comfort with significant energy savings. Offering this innovative, dual-purpose solution—which can replace existing heating AND cooling systems—positions you as a forward-thinking contractor ready to deliver cutting-edge, practical options that resonate with today’s energy-conscious homeowners.

Moreover, the financial landscape for air source heat pumps has never been more attractive. Homeowners can now take advantage of a "value stack" of incentives, including local and utility rebates, federal tax credits, and low-cost financing options, making the upfront investment much more accessible. Including heat pumps in your bids allows you to guide clients through these opportunities, helping them maximize savings. By making heat pumps a cornerstone of your offerings, you demonstrate your expertise, align with market trends, and position your business as a trusted advisor in the transition toward energy-efficient home solutions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main benefits of installing air source heat pumps to convey to homeowners?

Air source heat pumps provide year-round comfort by efficiently heating and cooling homes, and offer environmentally friendly solutions that align with growing consumer demand for sustainable technologies.

What incentives, rebates, and financing options are available to support your customers in adopting air-source heat pumps?

Homeowners can access local incentives, strong utility rebates, federal tax credits (available for the 2025 tax year), and low-cost financing options to make heat pumps more affordable and accessible.

What are some common myths about air source heat pumps, and how can I address them with homeowners?

Myth: Heat pumps don't work in cold climates.

Fact: Cold-climate heat pumps are specifically designed for performance in extreme temperatures.

Myth: Heat pumps are too expensive.

Fact: Incentives and long-term energy savings make them a cost-effective choice.

Myth: Heat pumps can't fully replace a furnace or air conditioner.

Fact: Heat pumps can handle both heating and cooling needs effectively.

What are the most common installation or operational issues contractors might face with air source heat pumps?

Common issues include incorrect sizing, improper refrigerant charge, and poor airflow due to inadequate ductwork. Ensuring proper installation and following manufacturer guidelines can prevent these problems.

What troubleshooting tips can help contractors address performance issues with heat pumps?

• Check for blockages in the outdoor unit or air filters.
• Ensure proper refrigerant levels and verify connections.
• Inspect ductwork for leaks or restrictions affecting airflow.

How can I position air source heat pumps in my business to grow sales and meet market demand?

Incorporate heat pumps into your bids, emphasize available incentives to reduce upfront costs, educate customers on energy savings, and position yourself as a knowledgeable provider of cutting-edge, efficient HVAC solutions.

How can I position air source heat pumps in my business to grow sales and meet market demand?

Incorporate heat pumps into your bids, emphasize available incentives to reduce upfront costs, educate customers on energy savings, and position yourself as a knowledgeable provider of cutting-edge, efficient HVAC solutions.

How do air source heat pumps perform in cold climates?

Modern heat pumps are designed to work efficiently even in sub-zero temperatures, using advanced cold-climate technology to deliver reliable heating throughout winter. 

Events

Stay informed and thrive in the evolving HVAC industry with training and events from the Midwest ASHP Collaborative. Discover how air-source heat pumps can deliver comfort, reliability, and energy savings for your customers while positioning your business as a leader in innovative heating and cooling solutions.

Our expert-led, manufacturer-supported sessions provide the skills and knowledge you need to confidently recommend and install ASHP technology. 

Currently, there are no scheduled training sessions or events. Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on future opportunities.

Resources

Explore our resources and guides to support your success with cold climate air source heat pumps. Each resource will provide insights and specifications to help you sell, design, size, and install the most efficient systems for your projects.  

Looking for resources for contractors? Visit our extensive resource library: Resource Library