High Efficiency Heat Pumps
Choosing a Heat Pump
Heat pumps are adaptable to a wide variety of uses and needs. If you're building a new home or replacing an existing system, your specific needs should determine whether you choose an all-electric, dual-fuel or geothermal heat pump system. Look for the SEER and HSPF industry efficiency ratings - higher numbers mean higher efficiency.
Seasonal Efficiency Energy Ratio (SEER) is used to distinguish cooling efficiency. Minimum efficiency standard is 13 SEER for units manufactured today. Multi-stage air source heat pumps are available up to 24 SEER. Consider units with 15 SEER or higher for optimum summer savings.
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) is used to identify the heating efficiency of an air source heat pump. Ratings range from 6.5 through 11. The higher the number the more efficient the system.
- Types of systems:
- All-electric air-source heat pumps
- Dual-fuel heat pumps
- Geothermal (ground source) heat pumps
Look for ENERGY STARŪ - To earn the ENERGY STAR label heat pumps must meet strict energy efficiency guidelines established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Department of Energy (DOE), and have higher SEER and HSPF ratings.
Like any other heating and cooling system, a heat pump must be sized and installed correctly for maximum efficiency and operational savings. Purchase your heat pump from a dealer certified by the heat pump manufacturer, or certified by (NATE) North American Technician Excellence. Find a certified contractor
