Thinking about upgrading to a heat pump?
Here’s the truth: the most important decision you’ll make is not about the brand, the model, the price, or even whether you choose ducted or ductless — it’s about who installs it.

A properly sized and expertly installed heat pump can deliver decades of efficient comfort and energy savings. But even the highest-rated system will underperform if it’s installed incorrectly. Poor sizing, sloppy workmanship, and lack of training are the biggest reasons homeowners end up frustrated with their investment.

That’s why choosing the right contractor matters even more than the equipment itself. When you work with a certified, experienced company like Island Ductless, you’re not just buying a system — you’re buying peace of mind that it will work exactly as promised, year after year.

What Types of Heat Pumps Are There?

The right system depends on your home’s layout, climate, and comfort goals:

• Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps (airsource) – Perfect for homes without ductwork or for targeted comfort in specific rooms. Quiet, efficient, and flexible.
• Ducted Heat Pumps (airsource) – Connect to existing ductwork and replace your traditional furnace and A/C with one system.
• Hybrid Systems – Pair ductless mini-split heat pumps with a ducted heat pump system for large connected open areas in your home.
• Ground-Source (Geothermal) Heat Pumps – Ultra-efficient (but with higher up-front costs than air source ductless and ducted heat pumps), using underground temperatures for heating and cooling for extreme climate zones. 

Pro Tip: At Island Ductless, we install both ductless and ducted systems — and we customize every design to your home. As Mitsubishi Elite Diamond Contractors, we’ve passed rigorous multi-stage training and accreditation standards and are qualified to offer extended product warranties (Mitsubishi Electric).

“Purchasing and installing a ductless heat pump system is a multi-step process, which requires considerable contact with the supplier. From the front office to the installers, electricians and inspectors, Island Ductless' people were superior in every way. They put our ductless system together like a tightly choreographed dance. The system works great -- to the point we are almost enjoying the cooler days of fall weather. We are also looking forward to the savings in our net power bill.”

5 Star Google Review

Can a Heat Pump Replace My Furnace?

In most climates — including Whidbey Island and the Anacortes area — modern cold-climate heat pumps can replace a furnace entirely.

At Island Ductless, we’ve been installing high-performance systems since 2010, averaging 400–500 installs per year, and we know exactly how to design a system that will heat and cool your home year-round. In fact, we hold an award for the highest percentage of multi-head systems installed in a five-state region — proof that we excel at tackling complex whole-home projects.

Are Heat Pumps Noisy?

Today’s best heat pumps are engineered for quiet performance.

Outdoor units often run at low-50 decibels — about the level of a normal conversation (Viessmann). The Guardian notes that most modern heat pumps emit 40–60 dB, comparable to a refrigerator, and proper installation can further reduce sound concerns (The Guardian).

Our installers carefully consider unit placement during the proposal process to keep noise from reaching bedrooms, neighbor’s windows, or other sensitive areas.

Can a Heat Pump Be Installed in Any Home?

Almost any home can be fitted with a heat pump:

• No ductwork? Ductless mini-splits fit perfectly.
• Existing ducts in good condition? A ducted heat pump may be the smoothest upgrade.
• Limited space outdoors? Compact or wall-mounted units can work.

“Thank you for providing steps on how to most efficiently use our heat pump in freezing temperatures! We do have a basement heater as well, but got by without needing our upstairs fireplace this year in the coldest temperatures since our installation many years ago. In addition the annual cleanings are always top notch, with considerate and pleasant workers keeping the house and grounds clear and covering furniture that may be impacted. We appreciate your service!!”

5 Star Google Review from a Whidbey Island Homeowner

Understanding Efficiency Ratings: COP, HSPF, SEER 

Choosing the right system also means understanding how efficiency is measured:

• COP (Coefficient of Performance) – The ratio of useful energy output to energy input. Most heat pumps achieve COPs of 3–5 in average conditions, meaning you get 3–5 units of heat for every unit of electricity used (Wikipedia).
• HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) – Seasonal heating efficiency; modern heat pumps typically range 8–10, and systems rated 9 or higher may qualify for U.S. tax incentives (Modernize, Wikipedia).
• SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) – Seasonal cooling efficiency; a SEER of 13 corresponds roughly to a COP of 3.2, while systems exceeding 20 SEER are considered highly efficient (Wikipedia, Engineering Toolbox).

How to Choose the Right Contractor

The truth is, installation quality determines your system’s performance and lifespan. Here’s what you should expect:

• Proper Licensing & Insurance – Protects your home, warranty, and investment.

• Manufacturer Certifications – Like Mitsubishi Elite Diamond Contractor status.

• Experience – Ductless installations require different skills than ducted; we have both.

• Clear Written Estimates – Model numbers, efficiency ratings, and all-inclusive pricing.

• Strong Reviews & References – Proof of consistent customer satisfaction.

Read our What to Expect During Your Installation Process blog to learn more.

When we provide a proposal, we include:

• A Manual-J heat loss study for proper sizing.

• A space and comfort analysis to match your lifestyle.

• Detailed equipment options with efficiency ratings and warranty terms.

• A comprehensive project timeline so you know exactly what to expect.

Read our What to Expect During the Proposal Process blog to learn more.

Our Commitment to Your Comfort

We don’t just install a system and walk away. Our full-time, factory-trained crews provide ongoing maintenance, service, and repairs for all leading brands, whether or not we installed your system. With industry-leading warranties — including up to 12 years on parts, 7 years on commercial systems, and extended labor warranty coverage with our annual maintenance membership— your comfort and investment are always protected.

We live here too — and we’re invested in making Whidbey Island area homes more comfortable, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly.

Final Takeaway

In our experience, the vast majority of heat pump “failures” have nothing to do with the equipment itself. Instead, they come down to improper installation or incorrect sizing. If your system wasn’t designed for your home’s needs or wasn’t installed by expertly trained professionals, you’re far more likely to end up with comfort issues, higher bills, or even premature breakdowns.

What’s the most important day in the life of your heat pump? The day it’s installed.
That’s why choosing the right contractor to help you choose the right system and install it correctly matters more than anything else.

Ready to get it right the first time? Contact Island Ductless today for a free, no-pressure estimate and start your journey toward year-round comfort and lower energy bills.

#GoDuctless with Island Ductless Heat Pumps.