After a $723 electric bill, a New York homeowner considers a heat pump upgrade as insulation problems surface

"Summer is usually fine; winter is the real problem."

A Long Island homeowner's February electricity bill of $722.68 sparked questions about whether the home's heat pump was truly suited for New York winters.

But the Reddit discussion in r/HeatPumps about possibly replacing the system also turned to other likely issues, including backup heat and insulation that the homeowner said still needed attention.

What to know

The setup described in the homeowner's Reddit post included backup electric resistance heat strips.

The poster said the 1,500-square-foot house also has a Nest fourth-generation learning thermostat, an indoor air handler, and a 36,000-BTU outdoor heat pump. After outlining the system, the homeowner asked whether it was sufficient for New York winters or whether a different heat pump would be needed.

The homeowner also asked whether only the outdoor unit would have to be replaced, or whether the whole system would need to come out, adding a question about whether the fix would cost thousands.

The top reply recommended installing a modern variable-speed cold-climate heat pump oversized by one ton, saying it would add winter capacity without ramping up unnecessarily in summer.

It also matters whether a unit is designed for cold-climate use. Some heat pumps are built to handle well below 0 degrees Fahrenheit, often down to -15, while standard models may still work but become much less efficient in very cold weather.

Clearance around the outdoor unit is another factor. If the equipment does not have enough room to discharge air, it can work harder than necessary. Heat pumps that vent upward generally need at least five feet of open space, and more is better. They also need enough airflow from all directions to draw in fresh air and manage refrigerant temperatures properly.

Another commenter said the home appeared to have a warm-weather heat pump in a cold climate.

A third user argued that the issue was the electric heat strips, and that if the house was not well insulated, the variable-speed system would run too often. That commenter said the home needed better sealing and insulation. After several remarks about insulation, the homeowner replied that their insulation needed work.

For homeowners exploring upgrades, Palmetto says it can help explain HVAC choices and lower energy bills with newer, more efficient HVAC systems and heat pumps. Its Comfort Plan network is designed to help homeowners find efficient heating and cooling solutions and connect with vetted installers.

What can be done?

Beyond the heating equipment itself, several commenters suggested an energy assessment to check insulation and air sealing, noting that PSEG partners offer free testing. The homeowner later said they would likely contact PSEG.

While this homeowner was trying to figure out whether the equipment was the right fit, upgrading heating and cooling is generally one of the most effective ways to reduce utility bills and help guard against rising energy costs.

For homeowners who are not ready to pay upfront for a new HVAC system, Palmetto's Comfort Plan includes $0-down options that can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 50%. Palmetto Comfort Plans also include 12 years of free maintenance.

Where can I learn more?

Other homeowners have run into similar questions about heat pumps, high heating bills, and insulation.

• A homeowner questioned heat-pump upgrades after receiving $9,000 quotes and rewiring estimates, while also worrying about insulation.
• A Massachusetts resident weighed heating options as commenters emphasized the importance of insulation.
• A New York homeowner's first winter with mini-splits came with a $0.38-per-kWh reality check.