Should You Use a Heat Pump or a Boiler in Millis, MA?

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Installed heat pump unit

When considering a new heating system installation in eastern Massachusetts, you might be looking at a heat pump vs. boiler, and there are pros and cons to both options. Learn more about whether you should consider a boiler or heat pump installation in Millis, MA.

What Are Heat Pumps and Boilers?

A heat pump is a newer type of heating and cooling system that is extremely energy efficient. It works by moving air from outside or inside your home to generate the desired temperature in winter or summer.

Boilers have been used for many decades and operate by heating water within a closed system, generating steam that is pushed through a series of pipes. They deliver heated, moist air to different areas of your home throughout winter.

Energy Efficiency Comparison of Heat Pumps and Boilers in Millis, MA

Perhaps the most significant difference in the heat pump vs. boiler comparison is energy efficiency. Boilers often run on fossil fuels, while heat pumps use electricity. Heat pumps reduce carbon emissions, making them overall more eco-friendly.

When installing heat pumps in the Millis, MA, area, you may be eligible for financial rebates through the state’s Mass Save program or a federal tax credit to help offset the installation cost.

If you install an ENERGY STAR-certified boiler, you may also qualify for Mass Save incentives. An HVAC technician can help you understand your options.

Which Heating System Works Better in Massachusetts Winters?

Boilers are a proven heating technology for dealing with cold winters in Millis, MA. Low temperatures here often drop to the teens and single digits, making a reliable heating system essential.

Heat pumps will keep your home warm all winter, too. However, this newer technology loses some of its capabilities when it’s forced to operate in extremely low temperatures. Some people install a backup heating system to avoid this issue.

Heat Pumps Give You Cooling Options – Boilers Don’t

One advantage in the heat pump vs. boiler comparison is that you only need one unit for both heating and cooling when using heat pumps. A boiler can only deliver warmth, meaning you’ll need a separate cooling system to combat the warm, humid summers.

Some homeowners in Massachusetts who own boilers may choose to forgo air conditioning since temperatures in the Millis, MA, area rarely climb into the 90s during summer. When you install heat pumps, you’ll always have a cooling option available, even if you don’t use it frequently. 

Heat pump installation done

Trust Pro Comfort Control for Advice When Considering Installing a Heat Pump or a Boiler in Millis, MA

When making a heating system comparison, it’s important to request help from the experts. Our team at Pro Comfort Control can help you understand the differences in energy efficiency, installation costs, and operating costs for a heat pump vs. boiler. 

We install and service both types of heaters, and our technicians have significant experience repairing, maintaining, and installing each system. We can help you learn about operating a boiler safely or enhancing heat pump efficiency in winter. 

To discuss your options or to set up an appointment, contact us today. We serve the entire region of Millis, MA, including areas near Noon Hill Reservation Trail Head and Mass Audubon’s Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions

When you’re trying to select the perfect heating system for your needs, our technicians are happy to answer any questions.

How Long Does It Take To Install Heat Pumps?

Our technicians usually need one to three days to install heat pumps in homes. It’s usually a quicker process than with some other designs of heating and cooling systems.

How Long Does It Take to Install Boilers?

It can take up to four days to install new boilers. However, if the house already has some components in place because it previously used a boiler, a one-day installation is possible.

Is It Difficult to Maintain Boilers?

It is not difficult to maintain boilers. Our technicians recommend having us visit your home annually to inspect all parts of the boiler, ensuring it’s ready to work for you all winter.

Can I Maintain Heat Pumps Myself?

Although you can do a few maintenance tasks on heat pumps yourself, most maintenance work requires a professional. Our technicians can visit your home annually to maintain the system.

Are Heat Pumps or Boilers Better for Older Homes?

The heat pump vs boiler comparison isn’t affected by whether you own an older home. Our team can install either heating system, regardless of the home’s age.

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