Project Overview
Location: Tacoma, WA 98443
Home Type: Residential
System Type: Inverter Heat Pump Installation
Completion Date: February 23, 2026
This Tacoma homeowner began noticing the limitations of a system we originally installed more than 24 years ago. After decades of reliable performance, it was time to upgrade to a more efficient and modern heating and cooling solution. With rising electricity costs and no central air conditioning in place, the goal was to improve year-round comfort while lowering long-term operating costs.
Many homeowners have been asking why energy costs have climbed so sharply this season. If you’ve noticed the same trend, we recently explained the factors driving higher utility expenses in our article on why Tacoma energy bills have been so high this winter.
After evaluating the existing downflow closet configuration, we designed a high-efficiency inverter-driven heat pump system tailored to the home’s layout and electrical setup.
The Challenge
The home was equipped with a 20kW electric furnace installed in a closet in a downflow orientation. While functional, electric resistance heating can be expensive to operate during Western Washington winters.
The homeowner wanted:
• Improved energy efficiency
• More consistent indoor temperatures
• Quieter system performance
• Reliable heating performance
• Smart thermostat functionality
• Clear communication and predictable installation
Because the system was located in a closet, proper airflow configuration, code compliance, and clearance requirements were essential. The existing thermostat wiring was limited, requiring an upgraded control solution to support the new heat pump system.
Our Solution
Pacific Heating & Cooling designed a high-efficiency inverter heat pump system to replace the electric furnace and provide both heating and cooling with improved efficiency and performance.
Installed Equipment
Heat Pump: Hisense 3-Ton Inverter Heat Pump – Side discharge design with variable-speed operation and low ambient heating capability down to -13°F.
Hisense AOH-36U3T25U 3-ton inverter heat pump installed for efficient heating and cooling
Air Handler: Hisense Matched Air Handler – Configured for downflow installation to ensure proper airflow and performance.
Hisense AUH-3624 air handler installed in a closet downflow configuration.
Thermostat: Honeywell ElitePRO™ Smart Thermostat – Advanced system control with indoor air quality monitoring and compatibility for retrofit applications.
Filtration Upgrade: Aprilaire 4″ MERV 11 Media Filter – Designed to improve airflow, protect equipment, and enhance indoor air quality.
This inverter-driven system now adjusts output based on demand instead of cycling fully on and off, delivering more stable indoor temperatures and improved energy performance.
Performance & Efficiency Benefits
This installation delivers:
• Improved heating efficiency compared to electric resistance heat
• Added central air conditioning
• More even temperatures throughout the home
• Reduced temperature swings
• Quieter indoor and outdoor operation
• Enhanced airflow and filtration
In Tacoma’s climate, inverter heat pumps are especially effective. They provide efficient performance during mild weather while maintaining reliable comfort during colder winter days.
Rebates & Savings
This installation qualified for:
• Tacoma Power $2,000 instant rebate for converting from electric furnace to variable-speed heat pump
Our team handled the required rebate documentation, heat load verification, and compliance paperwork to ensure the homeowner received all eligible utility incentives.
Protection & Guarantees
Every installation includes:
• Upfront pricing with no hidden or unexpected costs
• 10-Year Parts Warranty
• 3-Year Labor Warranty
• Comfort Guarantee
• Property Protection Guarantee
Two preventative maintenance visits were also included to help protect system performance and maintain manufacturer warranty requirements.
See our full list of guarantees
Customer Feedback
★★★★★ (5/5)
“Everything went great. They followed through with what the sales guy said they were gonna do. Everyone was professional during install, they didn’t take any shortcuts and it came out looking really good across the board. They did a great job of communicating as they were doing the install and the system works without any issues at all.”
Google Review – February 2026
Why This Matters for Tacoma Homeowners
Many homes in Tacoma still rely on electric furnaces that can become costly to operate during winter. Converting to an inverter-driven heat pump provides a more efficient solution while adding cooling capability at the same time.
Instead of relying solely on electric resistance heat, a variable-speed heat pump adapts to changing outdoor conditions, helping maintain consistent comfort while reducing overall energy consumption.
For homeowners looking to modernize their system, improve comfort, and lower long-term operating costs, inverter technology offers a dependable and efficient upgrade.
Thinking About Upgrading Your System?
If your heating or cooling system isn’t delivering the comfort you expect, it may be time to explore your options.
At Pacific Heating & Cooling, we do things differently. With our 2-hour arrival window, transparent pricing, and experienced technicians, you will never be left guessing. We diagnose quickly, communicate clearly, and deliver lasting fixes, not short cuts. We walk you through every step so you can make confident decisions for your home and your budget.
Still not sure? Contact us today to schedule your free comfort consultation.