Heat pumps resemble central ACs in that they include both an outdoor unit to collect or release heat and an indoor unit connected to the ductwork inside your house.
Picking the right-sized heat pump matters for saving costs and enhancing home comfort— Are heat pumps a good option? Check out more insights on Diamondback Plumbing’s website.
Size
Consider the size of the heat pump before installing one in your home. A too-small system may overwork itself in trying to reach desired temperatures; too-large units waste energy by frequently turning on and off and may hasten its demise faster.
If you are not an HVAC expert, the best way to select an appropriate heat pump for your home is by having someone run a Manual J calculation. This comprehensive estimate takes into account all aspects of your house when estimating heating and cooling needs.
To compare estimates from different contractors while shopping around, obtain multiple quotes and compare sizing estimates provided.
While a rule-of-thumb such as one ton per 500 square feet may work for some homeowners, for most homes it will take a more precise analysis from a professional installer with access to tools and knowledge to accurately gauge your heating and cooling requirements.
Energy efficiency
Heat pumps typically consume less energy to operate than furnaces because they use natural gas or electricity rather than fossil fuels like coal or petroleum. Selecting an energy-efficient model is one way to significantly cut heating and cooling costs.
The heat pump’s energy efficiency is calculated by its SEER rating for cooling and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) for heating. Higher SEER and HSPF ratings indicate better energy efficiency.
Seek heat pumps with ENERGY STAR certification, which reach strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Brand
Choosing the right brand when picking a heat pump for your home is important for the following reasons:
- Reliability: Renowned brands have a proven track record of reliability and durability. This means that their heat pumps are likely to last longer and perform consistently over time.
- Warranty: Most reputable brands offer warranties on their products. This is a sign of the brand’s confidence in the durability of their products and provides a safety net for customers.
- Service and support: Choosing a well-established brand ensures access to a wide network of service centers and technical support. This can be crucial for maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Innovation and technology: Top brands usually lead the way in terms of energy efficiency and innovative features. They invest in research and development to provide products that save energy and offer enhanced convenience.
- Resale value: If you decide to sell your home, having a heat pump from a respected brand could increase the property’s appeal and potentially its value. Buyers tend to trust well-known brands that signal quality and reliability.
Warranty
Reputable heat pump brands come with solid warranties. Depending on the model and manufacturer, warranties may cover parts and labor for up to ten years, while some require annual professional maintenance visits in order to keep their warranties valid – though this increases system costs but helps ensure refrigerant leaks are caught early and repaired effectively.
When researching models, it is also important to factor in installation costs as these may differ significantly between companies – taking time and care in your research will ensure you find your ideal heat pump solution!