What Is the Difference Between a Wall-Mounted Heat Pump and a Central Heat Pump?

You are looking to invest in a heat pump, but are hesitating between a wall-mounted unit and a central heat pump. You wonder, what makes those two models different? Look no further: the answer lies in this article.

What Do Wall-Mounted and Central Heat Pumps Have in Common?

Air-source heat pumps, both wall-mounted and central, use indoor and outdoor temperature variations to heat or cool your house. This system is highly effective and consumes very little energy, helping you save on electricity bills.

A heat pump can act as an air conditioner, and can also help you reduce heating costs by about 30%, sometimes even more. Ask for Energy Star certified models; they are some of the most energy-efficient appliances in Canada. Both heat pump models have an average lifespan of about 10 to 15 years.

What Defines Central Heat Pump Systems?

Central heat pump systems are usually installed in residences fitted with air ducts. It is sometimes possible to have air ducts installed, but this process is costly.

Central heat pumps are made of two parts; the indoor evaporator, and the outdoor fan coil. Their power ranges between 24 000 BTU and 60 000 BTU.

Central heat pumps tend to be more expensive than wall-mounted units, but they give maximum comfort as the warm or cool air is evenly distributed through the air ducts.

While they install your central heat pump, the technicians will check the state of your air ducts to ensure that your new system gives you the expected performance.

What Defines Wall-Mounted Heat Pumps?

Wall-mounted heat pumps are ideal for apartments, condos and houses without air ducts.

Just like the central heat pump, it has an outdoor condenser, but the inside unit is mounted directly to the wall, as opposed to central systems.

Wall-mounted heat pumps are not as expensive as central heat pump systems. Unlike the central system, which distributes air through the houses’ air ducts, this unit’s distributes air directly through the indoor wall-mounted unit.

There are two types of wall-mounted heat pumps: the mono-split heat pump, and the multi-zone (or multi-split) heat pump.

Mono-split systems are recommended for open-concept houses, as it is made up of a single indoor wall-mounted unit. Its power ranges from 9 000 to 18 000 BTU.

As for multi-zone systems, they are ideal for two-storey houses or houses with enclosed spaces. It’s made up of several wall-mounted units, all linked to the outdoor condenser. The multi-zone system’s power ranges between 18 000 and 36 000 BTU.

Work with Professionals

Before settling on a specific heat pump option, ask for a professional evaluation. At MST, our specialists will assess several parameters to find which heat pump is ideal for your home, as well as it’s needed strength. They will check your house’s surface area, the quality of insulation, the ceiling height, and the number of floors, amongst other things.

Make sure to get your heat pump installed by experts. Improper installation can result in a less effective, less cost-efficient, and noisier heat pump. Our team at MST is formed of certified experts who know their products. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for a free estimate.