So what's up with heat pumps in California? No one seems to use them or know much about them...except Chris Cash! I started looking into a new heater for the large in-ground pool of the house we purchased last summer and naturally wanted the most energy efficient solution at the best cost to purchase and install. We have many hundreds of square feet of PV solar panels on our roof so I knew that an electrical unit might be a good option (especially since I learned later that we're generating far more power than we're using). I called many (and I do mean MANY) individuals and businesses about installing an electric heat pump and everyone was either not capable of doing it, didn't know how to do it, told me it was a bad idea, told me it was too expensive and/or tried to discourage me from going that route. Except Chris Cash! In our first conversation and in subsequent conversations he answered all my questions with patience and knowledge. I've heard heat pumps are no good in California because "of the humidity" or because "of the temperatures" here. They are much more popular in Arizona and Florida apparently but Florida is humid and Arizona is dry, so why not here? Chris (along with the supplier) explained much to me and after more research I made my commitment to the electric heat pump.
With so many PV panels being installed on home roofs here in this leading state for solar energy, I can only presume that more and more people will be going with electric heat pumps for their pools. As Chris said, in my case, it's a "no-brainer". Regardless of my situation, he knew what he was talking about and wasn't afraid of the heat pump. (I've heard different reasons why gas is pushed in this state as you can imagine but I wasn't willing to pay exorbitant monthly gas bills when I thought there'd be a better option - especially since I plan to heat our pool year-round.) Only after I talked to Chris did I fully make up my mind and I definitely endorse his work. As far as I'm concerned, he should be the #1 installer around here of heat pumps as their usage increases. Frankly I was surprised at the negativity I heard from others in this area surrounding the use of heat pumps and so far I've been perfectly pleased with my pump's function and quietness.
I suppose some installers back off from heat pumps because they know little about electricity. Not Chris Cash! Again, he answered all my electrical questions (some unrelated to the pool heater) and did what needed to be done to get the pump up and running as soon as possible. Besides his able work, his price was good. I cannot believe the ridiculous estimates I received from the few who (very reluctantly) would install the heat pump or from those who only gave estimates for gas heaters.
When he and his partner arrived for the installation (coordinated with the shipping from the east coast manufacturer with whom Chris is friendly) they immediately set to work including analyzing my pool chemicals. (Their company also provides regular pool maintenance as well as all sorts of pool, deck and outdoor design services.) They worked well into the darkness to finish up (his days are busy!) and cancelled another (social) appointment that evening to provide me the best possible service. They don't drink on the job (I offered beer) and hustle to accomplish the work. After Chris added the new pipes he sprayed them all neatly with shiny black paint to match the heat pump. A leak occurred in the piping and Chris willingly and easily fixed that. Also he later further upgraded my electrical to accommodate the added usage so that the filter, heat pump and sweep can all operate without overloading. (Of course he could've done that with his initial visit but with the late hour that first night the hardware store was closed for the necessary part.) Chris works with determination and good energy, always cheery and courteous. I would definitely call on him again for another project or need. read more