Energy markets must transform quickly in a carbon-restrained world
By 2030, the annual carbon emissions of heating a typical EU home could decrease from 8 to 1 tonne only by using a heat pump system. These savings will be essential in meeting not only Kyoto goals but also ensuring energy supplies beyond 2010. By then, the oil and gas supplies will peak with an annual decline of up to 3% after that. As a consequence, the heating and cooling market must transform away from oil and gas, moving to more sustainable solutions. As has been shown by latest studies of Eurelectric – the representative of all major electrical utilities – heat pumps will be key in reducing energy use.

CO2 heat pumps: Technical challenges remain
Experiences so far have shown the viability of CO2 heat pumps in tap water and space heating. Japanese hot water “EcoCute” units installed in Sweden have been operating over a period of 4 years without any problems. At present, leading manufacturers are investing in R744 heat pumps in the EU, including Green&Cool, Bock, Dorin, Denso, Sanyo, and Stiebel Eltron. Speakers at the event, however, unanimously mentioned the lack of suitable components as a key obstacle for a wide-spread use of these systems. More specifically, they lamented that heat exchangers are not available in the needed quality. Several projects did not lead to high efficiency because of the low compressor performance that differed largely from the efficiency levels indicated by the manufacturer.
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Heat Pump Problems: A Troubleshooter's Guide

Heat Pump Problems: Outside unit will not start Possible Solution(s): Defective circuit breaker, disconnected wires, defective thermostat. Heat Pump Problems: Circuit breaker continually trips when unit starts Possible Solution(s): Defective breakers, capacitors. Heat Pump Problems: Outside unit runs but not fan Possible Solution(s): Fan motor burned out, loose wires, bad capacitor. Heat Pump Problems: Heat pump collects ice Possible Solution(s): Filters dirty, evaporator coil dirty, blower motor bad. While you cannot service your unit, there are some things you CAN do by way of preventive maintenance that will help prevent most heat pump problems: -Clean off the fan blades of the blower (if you can see them) -Tighten all mounting bolts if they are loose -Check for loose hoses or wires - notify a pro if you find any -If you have removable filters, check them regularly and clean or replace them as directed in your owner's manual.

Most manufacturers will not help you to directly resolve your heat pump problems, they will usually refer you to a qualified repair technician. If you suspect that you have been sold a defective unit, or that it was not installed properly, you may contact your local state agency or federal consumer advocacy department for further assistance with your heat pump problems. Consumer tips - -Use reliable contractors -Ask lots of questions -Before spending a lot of money, get 2 or 3 additional estimates.
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Heat Pump Prices: How To Get The Best Deals

Larger capacity heat pumps demand a higher price (and conversely may do a better job of heating/cooling) than a smaller heat pump unit. As always, you can harness the power of your PC to good advantage. Multitudes of manufacturer websites (such as Trane, Goodman, and Carrier) provide instant at-your-fingertip data to compare prices on heat pump models. Remember, as with purchasing any major household equipment or appliances, when comparing heat pump prices note not only the cost of purchase but also the cost of installation (some dealers charge extra for this, others include it in the purchase price of the unit itself).

In your search for the best heat pump prices don't forget to look for: seasonal promotions, manufacturer discounts, recommendations from friends and neighbors, as well as feedback from your favorite plumber, air conditioning or furnace professional. Talk to building contractors - they know what has worked for others, and can sometimes provide 'insider deals'. As always, beware of price-gouging. Advertised heat pump prices are sometimes negotiable. Let it be known that you are shopping around and have several options. Don't wait until your existing unit is broken and you are desperate! Heat pump prices may go down at the end of your region's heating season, and go up again when temperatures begin to cool.
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Heat Pump Maintenance

A well-maintained heat pump could save 10% to 25% on your energy costs. When installed and tested by a qualified technician, heat pumps can deliver many years of dependable service and comfort. Below are some steps you can follow to ensure that your heat pump gives you optimum performance. Note: When you're cleaning your heat pump, remember to switch it off first and shut off the power to your outdoor unit. Note: if you aren't confident in your ability to perform these tasks safely and correctly, don't do it. Hire a contractor instead.

Apart from the above, the heat pump can develop other operational problems. Heat pumps have auxiliary heating elements that draw so much power that they can trip the circuit breakers. In such cases, resetting the circuit breaker should solve the immediate problem. However, it if recurs frequently, you'll want to speak with your HVAC contractor or electrician. If the heat pump turns off and on often, it could be due to a thermostat problem. Maybe the filters need to be changed or the blower checked. Sometimes there are squealing sounds if the belt connecting the motor to the fan slips. But if you hear a grinding noise, the motor's bearings could be worn out. Switch off your heat pump and call the technicians. When the heat pump defroster does not work, check to see if there is heavy ice on it or if it has failed.