Electric Heat Pumps Get Warm Reviews at Queens Public Housing Development
The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) has been testing electric heat pumps in a Queens public housing complex, with promising results. The experiment, which began in July 2023, involved installing heat pumps in 12 apartments, with plans to expand to 72 units across two buildings.
‘Much Better Than the Steam Heat’
The heat pumps, which provide both heating and cooling, have yielded significant energy savings and cost reductions. According to an analysis by NYCHA, they have delivered over 87% in energy savings and about 50% in energy cost savings compared to traditional steam heat.
Residents of the Woodside Houses, where the heat pumps were first installed, have praised the new system. Tia Cheng, a 24-year-old resident, described the heat as "more consistent and comfortable" than the steam heat provided by radiators. Hector Rivera, another resident, appreciated the individual controls in each room, saying, "The window units were much better than the steam heat because you have individual controls in each room."
A New Era in Heating and Cooling
The heat pumps are designed to pull warm air in from outside and provide cooling by working in reverse. This technology is more efficient than window air-conditioning units and boilers, which combust fossil fuels on site to produce heat. The use of heat pumps can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase building resilience to climate-related hazards.
NYCHA’s Decarbonization Efforts
NYCHA’s goal is to decarbonize its buildings and increase resilience to climate hazards. Siobhan Watson, senior director of sustainability at NYCHA, said, "We are focused on finding ways to decarbonize our buildings and increase our resilience to climate hazards that are going to be affecting us more and more. But all of that work is done in the context of that primary mission of increasing housing quality and serving our residents."
Conclusion
The success of the electric heat pumps at the Woodside Houses has paved the way for their widespread adoption in New York City. With their energy-efficient design and ease of installation, heat pumps could become a key solution for decarbonizing buildings and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
FAQs
- How do heat pumps work?
Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling by pulling warm air in from outside and working in reverse. - What are the benefits of heat pumps?
Heat pumps are more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems, reducing energy consumption and costs. - Are heat pumps suitable for all buildings?
Heat pumps are ideal for buildings with existing electric infrastructure, but may require upgrades to buildings with outdated systems. - How much do heat pumps cost?
Window-mounted heat pumps cost around $3,000, while traditional heat pump systems can range from $30,000 to $50,000. - Are there incentives for installing heat pumps?
Yes, homeowners and renters may be eligible for federal and state tax credits and rebates.
