What to understand Before you purchase a Heat Pump

Climate

New heat pumps work efficiently in many parts of the country, but especially in places without wide temperature swings and moderate heating and cooling needs. But if you reside in a neighborhood with extremely cold temperatures, below 10 degrees F to 25 degrees F counting on system size, you'll need an auxiliary heating plant.

Energy Efficiency

The cooling efficiency for air-source and ductless-split systems is measured by SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). The federal minimum standard is 13 SEER for brand spanking new units for homes within the Northeast, Midwest, Mountain States, and Pacific Northwest; for the remainder of the country, the minimum is 14 SEER.

The heating efficiency of air-source and ductless-split systems is measured by HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). The minimum federal HSPF rating for all units is 7.7.

In warmer climates, a better SEER is more important, but in colder climates, a better HSPF is best. consistent with the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, you ought to consider buying an apparatus that's a minimum of 15 SEER and eight.5 HSPF. The most-efficient Energy Star-rated heat pumps are 18 to 27.5 SEER and eight .5 to 12.5 HSPF.

A geothermal heat pump’s cooling efficiency is rated by EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) and its heating efficiency by COP (Coefficient of Performance). supported type, the federal EER minimums are 17.1 to 21.1, and therefore the COP minimums are 3.1 to 4.1.

Typically, the higher the rating, the higher the system’s cost. you'll spend several thousand dollars more for a more efficient Heat pump. But, counting on where you reside, you'll save $115 a year or more on your utility bill by replacing your older heating and cooling system with an Energy Star-rated product.

Sizing

Size is additionally important. If a heat pump is undersized or oversized, it won’t heat or cool effectively and can increase your energy bills. And your home might not feel comfortable. A unit that’s too big will cost more upfront and can cycle and off too repeatedly, shortening its life.

Work with a heating and cooling professional, who should use an air-con Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual J calculation to work out the proper size. The calculation takes into consideration your home’s foundation, wall thicknesses, insulation values, windows, air filtration, and more.