Heat pump installation near Harrison, NY

What a heat pump does

A heat pump moves heat instead of burning fuel to make it. In winter it pulls heat from the outside air and brings it indoors. In summer it runs in reverse and works as an air conditioner. Cold-climate models are designed to keep heating through typical Westchester winters, and many homeowners keep their furnace or boiler as a backup for the coldest days.

Ducted, ductless or a mix

If your home already has ducts for a furnace or central air, a ducted heat pump can often use them, sometimes paired with the existing furnace in what is called a dual-fuel setup. Homes with radiators and no ducts, which are common in older Westchester neighborhoods, often use ductless mini-splits instead. The right choice depends on the house, the ductwork and how you use the rooms.

New York incentives, in general terms

New York State runs the NYS Clean Heat program, which is sponsored by the state's utilities and offers incentives for heat pumps. Incentive amounts and eligibility rules change, and they are usually applied through participating contractors. We do not quote amounts here because they may be out of date by the time you read this. Ask the contractor which incentives apply to your home and how they show up on the price. You can also read about the program at cleanheat.ny.gov.

Questions to ask before you sign

A heat pump is a bigger decision than a like-for-like furnace swap, so take your time with the quote.

• Is the system rated for cold climates, and how was it sized?
• Will it replace the current heat or work alongside it?
• Does the electrical panel have room, or is an upgrade needed?
• Which incentives apply, and are they already taken off the price?
• Who pulls the permit, and what does the warranty cover?

Is it a good fit for your house?

Heat pumps tend to work best in homes with decent insulation and air sealing. Older houses can still be good candidates, but drafty rooms and uninsulated attics make any system work harder. Some contractors will suggest air sealing or insulation first. If you are comparing a heat pump with a new furnace, ask for both prices and an estimate of operating costs at your current fuel and electric rates.

How to send a request

Use the estimate form and choose heat pump installation. Tell us your town, what heats the house now (oil, gas or propane, furnace or boiler), roughly how big the home is and whether it has ducts. We pass the request to an independent installer who serves your area. They contact you to look at the house and give you a written price, and you decide whether to go ahead. Sending a request costs nothing.

Questions homeowners ask