Q: What is a ductless heat pump (DHP) and how does it work? 

There are two main types of heat pumps: air-source and ground-source heat pumps. This program uses air-source heat pumps, which transfers heat from outside air to inside when heating and does the reverse when cooling. 

An air-source ductless heat pump is an efficient way to heat and cool your home compared to traditional ways of heating and cooling. Here’s how it works: 

1. Pulls Heat from the Air – The system extracts heat from the air and moves it inside to warm your home. In the summer, it does the opposite—it pulls heat from inside your home and moves it outside to cool things down. 

1. Uses Refrigerant to Transfer Heat – The heat pump contains a liquid called refrigerant. This liquid absorbs heat from the outside air and carries it to an indoor unit, where a fan blows the warmed (or cooled) air into your space. 

1. Works Without Ducts – Instead of needing large air ducts, a ductless heat pump has a small outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units mounted on the wall or ceiling. These units deliver warm or cool air directly to the rooms that need it. 

1. Energy and Cost Efficient – Unlike traditional electric heaters or furnaces that generate heat, a heat pump moves heat, using less energy—often cutting heating costs significantly. 

1. Year-Round Comfort – It works as a heater and an air conditioner, keeping you comfortable during every season. 

A DHP is a great option for efficient, flexible heating and cooling, especially in homes without ductwork, or for adding comfort to specific rooms. 

Q: Who can receive a ductless heat pump from the Climate Resilience Program in Phase 1 of the program? 

The DHPP provides a fully subsidized heat pump for low- (80% or less of the Area Median Income) and moderate (between 80%-150% of the Area Median Income) -income single family households for Suquamish Tribal elders who live on the reservation. 

Q: What are the income requirements for this program? 

The DHPP is fully funded by grants with income requirements. Applicants must qualify as Low Income (at or below 80% AMI), or a Moderate Income (Between 80% and 150% AMI) based on 2024 HUD Income Limits shown in the table below: 

Household Size	80% AMI	150% AMI
1 Person	67,050	125,685
2 People	76,600	143,640
3 People	86,200	161,595
4 People	95,750	179,550
5 People	103,450	193,914
6 People	111,100	208,278
7 People	118,750	222,642
8 People	126,400	237,006

 

Applicants are required to submit their most recent IRS Tax Return, Social Security Letter, or other proof of income, including self-attestation. Enrollment in Eligible Income-Qualified Programs listed below can also qualify an applicant for this income requirement: 

• LIHEAP Certification 

• HUD Housing 

• Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI) 

• TANF 

• WIC 

• Suquamish Tribe Aged and Disabled Program  

Applicants who would like assistance to determine their eligibility can contact Suquamish Human Services. For applicants receiving assistance from the Elders Program, contact Della Crowell, the Elders Program Manager, at (360) 394-8417.  

Q: What if I already have other sources of heating and cooling?  

There is no requirement to apply to receive a ductless heat pump. However, once it’s installed, it should be your home’s main heating and cooling system, with your existing system used only as backup when needed. 

Q: Why did the Suquamish Tribe’s create this program? 

The Suquamish Tribe Climate Resilience Program is committed to the goal of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improving household resilience to the impacts of climate change. For example, improving indoor and outdoor air quality, and providing cooling during heat waves and heating during low temperatures. The Human Services Department currently subsidizes the utility bills of over 100 tribal members throughout Kitsap County, including Tribal Elders in the Elders Assistance Program. Phase 1 of the DHPP supports this goal in providing on-reservation Tribal Elders with energy efficient and climate-friendly solution to indoor heating and cooling. 

Q: Can ductless heat pumps be used in cold climates? 

Yes, modern ductless heat pumps are designed to operate efficiently in cold climates. Some models are rated to work effectively even in temperatures as low as -15°F (-26°C). 

Q: Are ductless heat pumps expensive to install? 

The installation cost can vary depending on the size of the system, the number of indoor units, and the complexity of the installation. The funds available in this program will cover up to $14,000 in eligible expenses for one household. 

Q: Do ductless heat pumps require a lot of maintenance? 

Ductless heat pumps require minimal maintenance. Regularly cleaning or replacing the filters, checking the system annually by a professional, and ensuring the outdoor unit is clear of debris are the main tasks.  

Tribal members interested in learning more about training and education opportunities related to ductless heat pump maintenance are encouraged to contact Jennie Harlan, the Climate Education and Outreach Coordinator, at (360) 394-1402. 

Q: Can I use a ductless heat pump in multiple rooms? 

Yes, multi-zone systems allow you to connect multiple indoor units (heads) to a single outdoor unit, providing individual temperature control for different rooms or zones. Homes in Phase 1 of the DHPP are estimated to have one head in a primary bedroom and one head in a primary common room. This can vary based on your home. 

Q: How noisy are ductless heat pumps? 

Ductless heat pumps are generally very quiet. The indoor units typically operate at sound levels as low as 19-34 dB, which is quieter than a normal conversation. 

Q: Are ductless heat pumps environmentally friendly? 

Yes, ductless heat pumps are more environmentally friendly than traditional ways of heating and cooling. They use less energy and help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by replacing propane and non-electric sources of heating and cooling. They are also highly energy-efficient! They use less energy by eliminating the need for ductwork, which can lose up to 30% of energy. 

Q: How long do ductless heat pumps last? 

With proper maintenance, ductless heat pumps can last 15 to 20 years or more. 

Q: Can ductless heat pumps improve indoor air quality? 

Yes, ductless heat pumps help keep indoor air cleaner by filtering out dust, allergens, and pollutants. Unlike traditional systems with ducts, they don’t spread dust and allergens around your home. 

Q: If eligible, when can I anticipate receiving a heat pump? 

All ductless heat pump installations in Phase 1 of the program are intended to be completed by June 2025. The Climate Resilience Program is committed to looking for additional funding opportunities to expand the program.