Heat Pump Installation & Repair in San Antonio, TX

How Heat Pumps Work: Heating & Cooling Explained

Heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate it, moving 3-4 units of heat energy for every 1 unit of electricity consumed. This delivers 300-400% efficiency compared to 95-98% for gas furnaces.

Heat pumps work on the same principle as air conditioners and refrigerators—they move heat rather than generate it. In cooling mode, they extract heat from inside your home and move it outdoors. In heating mode, they reverse the process, extracting heat from outdoor air (even when it's cold) and moving it inside. This heat transfer process requires far less energy than generating heat by burning fuel or using electric resistance heating. A heat pump can move 3-4 units of heat energy for every 1 unit of electricity consumed—300-400% efficiency compared to 95-98% for the most efficient gas furnaces. The key component is the reversing valve, which changes refrigerant flow direction to switch between heating and cooling modes. In San Antonio's climate, heat pumps operate at peak efficiency year-round because outdoor temps rarely drop below their optimal range.

Heat Pump vs Traditional HVAC: Cost Comparison

Heat pump operating costs are 30-50% lower than traditional HVAC. For a 2,000 sq ft home, annual costs drop from $1,200-1,500 to $700-900. Payback period is typically 3-5 years.

Initial installation costs for heat pumps are comparable to or slightly higher than traditional AC+furnace systems—typically $6,000-$12,000 for whole-home ducted systems depending on size and efficiency. However, operating costs are 30-50% lower due to superior efficiency. For an average 2,000 sq ft San Antonio home, annual heating and cooling costs might be $1,200-$1,500 with traditional gas furnace and AC, but only $700-$900 with a heat pump system. The payback period is typically 3-5 years, after which you continue saving hundreds annually. Additionally, heat pumps qualify for federal tax credits (up to $2,000 in 2024-2025) and utility rebates, reducing upfront costs. Maintenance costs are lower too—one system instead of two means fewer service calls. Over a 15-year lifespan, total cost of ownership (installation + operation + maintenance) strongly favors heat pumps.

Ductless vs Ducted Heat Pumps: Which is Right for You?

Ductless mini-splits eliminate 20-30% duct energy losses and allow independent room control. Ducted systems provide whole-home comfort using existing ductwork.

Ducted heat pump systems connect to existing ductwork and provide whole-home heating and cooling—ideal if you already have ducts in good condition. Ductless mini-split systems use individual indoor units in each room or zone—perfect for homes without ductwork, additions, or creating independent temperature zones. Ductless advantages: no duct losses (20-30% energy waste), independent room control, easier installation (no ductwork), quieter operation, and higher efficiency (up to 30+ SEER). Ducted advantages: whole-home comfort from central system, hidden indoor components, familiar operation, and works with existing ducts. Cost comparison: ductless single-zone $3,500-$5,000, ductless multi-zone (4 heads) $8,000-$14,000, ducted whole-home $6,000-$12,000. Many homeowners use hybrid approaches—ducted for main living areas, mini-splits for additions or problem rooms. We assess your specific situation and recommend the most cost-effective solution.

Heat Pump Efficiency Ratings Explained

SEER measures cooling efficiency (14-26+), HSPF measures heating efficiency (8.2-13). For San Antonio, cooling efficiency has bigger impact due to 8-9 month cooling season.

Heat pumps have two efficiency ratings: SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures cooling efficiency, and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) measures heating efficiency. For cooling, minimum federal standard is 14 SEER, but we recommend 16+ SEER for San Antonio's climate—systems range from 14 to 26+ SEER. Each SEER point above 14 saves approximately 7% on cooling costs. For heating, minimum is 8.2 HSPF, we recommend 9+ HSPF—systems range from 8.2 to 13 HSPF. Higher efficiency systems cost more upfront ($500-$1,500 per efficiency point) but save proportionally on operating costs. In San Antonio's climate where you cool 8-9 months and heat 3-4 months, cooling efficiency (SEER) has bigger impact than heating efficiency (HSPF). We calculate payback periods based on your usage patterns to help you choose the optimal efficiency level for your budget and savings goals.

Heat Pump Lifespan and Maintenance Requirements

Properly maintained heat pumps last 15-20 years. Annual maintenance twice yearly ensures peak performance and catches age-related issues like capacitors, reversing valves, and compressors.

Properly maintained heat pumps last 15-20 years in San Antonio's climate. Because they run year-round (both heating and cooling), they accumulate more operating hours than traditional systems, making maintenance even more critical. We recommend professional service twice annually—spring before cooling season and fall before heating season. Each service includes cleaning coils (both indoor and outdoor), checking refrigerant charge, testing reversing valve operation, inspecting electrical connections, lubricating motors, cleaning condensate drains, and testing defrost controls. Between professional services, homeowners should change filters monthly (or every 3 months for high-quality pleated filters), keep outdoor unit clear of debris and vegetation (2-foot clearance), and monitor for unusual noises or performance issues. Common age-related failures: capacitors (5-7 years), reversing valves (10-12 years), compressors (12-15 years). Replacement vs repair decision depends on age and repair cost—if repair exceeds 50% of replacement cost and system is 10+ years old, replacement usually makes more financial sense.

Troubleshooting Common Heat Pump Problems

Common heat pump problems include stuck reversing valves, defrost cycle issues, and refrigerant leaks. Most issues are diagnosed and repaired in a single service visit.

Heat pump not switching modes? The reversing valve may be stuck or the control board failed—this prevents switching between heating and cooling. System blowing cold air in heating mode? Check that it's not in defrost cycle (normal operation that melts ice from outdoor coil). If continuously cold, refrigerant may be low or compressor struggling. Outdoor unit icing up in heating mode? Some frost is normal, but heavy ice indicates defrost cycle problems, low refrigerant, or restricted airflow. Unit running constantly but not heating/cooling effectively? System may be low on refrigerant, have dirty coils, or be incorrectly sized. Hearing unusual noises? Grinding indicates motor problems, hissing suggests refrigerant leaks, clicking may be failing contactors. High electric bills? Dirty coils, low refrigerant, or failing components reduce efficiency dramatically. Never attempt DIY refrigerant work—it requires EPA certification and specialized equipment. Many issues are preventable with annual maintenance.

Heat Pumps and San Antonio's Climate: Perfect Match

San Antonio's mild winters (40-50°F averages) provide ideal conditions for heat pump efficiency. Heat pumps work best in climates where outdoor temps rarely drop below 25-30°F.

San Antonio's climate provides ideal conditions for heat pump operation. Our average winter lows (40-50°F) fall well within the high-efficiency range for heat pumps. Even our coldest nights (20-30°F a few times per winter) are within modern heat pump capabilities. Traditional heat pumps maintain excellent efficiency down to 25-30°F outdoor temps, with newer cold-climate models working efficiently to -15°F. This means a properly sized heat pump can handle 100% of San Antonio's heating and cooling needs with maximum efficiency. The long cooling season (April-October) allows heat pumps to really shine—providing cooling at 30-50% lower cost than traditional AC. The mild heating season (November-March) means heat pump heating operates in its sweet spot without struggling. Compared to northern climates where backup heat is essential, San Antonio heat pump owners rarely if ever need auxiliary heat. This perfect climate match is why heat pump adoption is growing rapidly in Texas—they simply work better here than almost anywhere else.

Rebates, Incentives & Financing for Heat Pumps

Federal tax credits provide up to $2,000 for qualifying heat pumps. CPS Energy rebates add $300-1,200 more. Combined, these incentives can reduce installation costs by $500-3,200.

Heat pumps qualify for significant rebates and incentives. Federal tax credits provide up to $2,000 for heat pump installations meeting efficiency requirements (varies by year, check current IRS guidelines). CPS Energy (San Antonio's utility) offers rebates for high-efficiency systems—typically $300-$1,200 depending on SEER/HSPF ratings. Some programs offer enhanced rebates for low-income households or when replacing electric resistance heat. Additionally, energy-efficient heat pumps may qualify for property tax exemptions in Texas. We help customers navigate all available incentives to maximize savings. For financing, we offer flexible payment plans with approved credit, including 0% APR promotional periods during peak seasons. Monthly payments often equal or are less than energy savings, making upgrades cash-flow positive from day one. We provide detailed savings calculations showing exact payback periods including all incentives—most customers break even within 3-5 years and save for 15+ years after.