How to Choose a Heat Pump for Your Home
Heat pumps were once considered inefficient and
undesirable, but times have changed. Thanks in large part to new
efficiency standards put on heat pumps by the government; they have
become significantly more desirable. They are more energy efficient
than central heating and air conditioning systems. In fact, by some
estimates, the best heat pumps are as much as 100% more efficient
than central heating and cooling systems. More and more people are
turning to them to save money on their power and gas bills and even
more people are embracing heat pumps out of concern for the
environment. If you have decided to make the leap, there are things
you should know before selecting your heat pump system. This guide
will help you select your best heat pump.
Before getting into the specifics about heat pumps themselves, it is
important to understand the installation process. Do not pick out
your heat pump and then go shopping for a contractor to do the
installation work. Your contractor should be working with you every
step of the way through the process. Their input will be extremely
valuable when it comes to choosing the right heat pump to meet your
needs.
The number one thing you need to consider when you are choosing a
heat pump is the size of the pump. You need one that is large enough
to provide heat and cooling to all of the rooms in your home without
overworking or burning out. Your contractor should be able to give
you advice about the proper sizing. Many people are tempted to
downsize in hopes of saving a little money up front. Don’t do it. It
will increase your energy costs over the long haul and cause you to
need more frequent repair and maintenance on your system.
Additionally, you just won’t be comfortable in your home. It is not
worth saving the few hundred dollars.
Next, consider the SEER and HSPF ratings. These ratings tell you how
efficient the heating and cooling systems are in a heat pump. The
higher the SEER number is, the more effectively the heat pump cools
the house. The higher the HSPF rating, the more effective the heat
pump is at heating the home. You should pick a heat pump that
matches the climate where you live. If you have a lot of hot
weather, a high SEER rating is important, and if you have a lot of
cold weather, the HSPF rating should matter the most to you.
Taking the time to do your homework up front is worthwhile to get
the most out of your heat pump investment – it will save you money
in the long run.
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
iapsales.com LLC - a family business specializing in HVAC products. We
are distributors of
Qmark Heaters,
electric tankless water heaters,
bathroom heaters,
patio heaters, electric heaters,
portable air
conditioners & electric towel warmers. Shop on line at
www.heateroutlet.com for these great home improvement products.
Iapsales.com LLC was established in 2003 and is the sister company to
Innovative Air Products located in historical Exeter, NH. We are a 2nd
generation manufacturers’ rep firm dedicated to providing residential &
commercial heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. We offer
a great selection online at the lowest prices anywhere. We can also be
found on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube