In warmer climates, SEER is more important than HSPF. To choose an air-source electric heat pump, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. A new central heat pump replacing a vintage unit will use much less energy, substantially reducing air-conditioning and heating costs. However, the energy savings can return the higher initial investment several times during the heat pump's life.

In general, the higher the HSPF and SEER, the higher the cost of the unit. Heating efficiency for air-source electric heat pumps is indicated by the heating season performance factor (HSPF), which is a measure over an average heating season of the total heat provided to the conditioned space, expressed in Btu, divided by the total electrical energy consumed by the heat pump system, expressed in watt-hours.Ĭooling efficiency is indicated by the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER), which is a measure over an average cooling season of the total heat removed from the conditioned space, expressed in Btu, divided by the total electrical energy consumed by the heat pump, expressed in watt-hours.

Copper tubing, grooved inside to increase surface area.Įvery residential heat pump sold in this country has an EnergyGuide label, which displays the heat pump's heating and cooling efficiency performance rating, comparing it to other available makes and models.

Improved electric motor and two-speed compressor designs.

Variable speed blowers, which are more efficient and can compensate for some of the adverse effects of restricted ducts, dirty filters, and dirty coils.

Thermostatic expansion valves for more precise control of the refrigerant flow to the indoor coil.The efficiency and performance of today's air-source heat pumps is a result of technical advances such as the following: A reversing valve, near the compressor, can change the direction of the refrigerant flow for cooling mode as well as for defrosting the outdoor coil in winter. The indoor coil releases heat from the refrigerant as it condenses back into a liquid. In heating mode, liquid refrigerant in the outside coil removes heat from the air and evaporates into a gas. When displacing oil (i.e., the oil system remains, but operates less frequently), the average annual savings are nearly 3,000 kWh (or about $300).Ī heat pump's refrigeration system consists of a compressor and two copper or aluminum coils (one indoors and one outside), which have aluminum fins to aid heat transfer. However, in recent years, air-source heat pump technology has advanced so that it now offers a legitimate space heating alternative in colder regions.įor example, a study by the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships found that when units designed specifically for colder regions were installed in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, the annual savings are around 3,000 kWh (or $459) when compared to electric resistance heaters, and 6,200 kWh (or $948) when compared to oil systems. This is possible because a heat pump transfers heat rather than converting it from a fuel like combustion heating systems.Īir-source heat pumps have been used for many years in nearly all parts of the United States, except in areas that experienced extended periods of subfreezing temperatures. When properly installed, an air-source heat pump can deliver up to three times more heat energy to a home than the electrical energy it consumes. An air-source heat pump can provide efficient heating and cooling for your home.

Comfort zone heater