How to Choose the Right Heat Pump

Private competition (when you get into the right relationship) keeps electricity prices low here in Texas. So, that means you have nothing to fear when choosing an electric appliance of any kind.

With certain appliances, you have a number of choices. For example, furnaces can be powered by burning gas, pellets, or even electricity.

But when it comes to energy efficiency and supplying heat, one appliance knocks them all out: the heat pump.

And, heat pumps can even be set on reverse to help with cooling when it gets hotter out. They work best for moderately cold temperatures just like the weather gets here in Texas.

During hotter weather, you can use your heat pump to supplement your air conditioning. However, heat pumps currently aren’t powerful enough to replace your HVAC system. But, they still reduce the load on your HVAC system, which saves you money.

Up North, you don’t see heat pumps because they’re just not capable of keeping up with the temperature extremes you see there.

So here’s a brief guide to help you make a wise decision if you choose to buy a heat pump:

1. Don’t Focus Too Much on Energy Efficiency

You should certainly consider energy efficiency. But don’t focus on it so much that you forget to consider other aspects, like product quality and the manufacturer’s reputation.

Because, some manufacturers know you’ll look at the high energy efficiency rating, set their prices low, and then make up the lost profit on more repairs over the life of the heat pump.

2. How to Analyze Heat Pump Efficiency

Heat pumps are rated based on SEER and HSPF (heating seasonal performance factor). For both of these ratings, the higher the number, the more efficient the heat pump.

The SEER rating tops out at about 21-22 or so, which means that’s the max efficiency you can get. HSPF operates on a 7.7 to 13-point scale, with anything over 8 being pretty darn efficient (and possibly eligible for a tax credit).

3. How Noisy do Heat Pumps Get?

This one you have to research based on the products you’re evaluating. Heat pumps can be either noisy or quiet. And the only way to find out is to read consumer reviews.

4. What Difference do Construction Materials Make?

A huge one. A higher-end heat pump has powder-coated paint, which gives it a gorgeous appearance. Others come in a galvanized steel cabinet so they can withstand high impact (like a lawnmower clunking into them).

Again, you’ll have to do your individual product research, talk to the salesperson, and consider the potential risks to your heat pump.

If you follow these tips, you’ll end up with an energy-efficient heat pump that lasts a long time, and doesn’t require tons of repairs.

And that’s something every homeowner appreciates!