An Easy Guide To Buying A Heat Pump
With Florida’s mild winters and long cooling seasons, buying a heat pump could be exactly what you need to lower your utility bills year round. A heat pumps acts as a high-efficiency air conditioner in the summer and, as long as the temperature stays above freezing in the winter, it can provide around 300 percent heating efficiency. This is possible because heat pumps move heat instead of generating it from a fuel source. And since Florida has such mild winter weather, heat pumps are ideal for staying warm during that short and mild season.
As you start thinking about buying a heat pump, there are several features and ratings you should look for to get the most out of your investment.
- Cooling efficiency: Heat pump efficiency is measured in two ways. The cooling efficiency is called seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER), which is the same index used to measure air conditioner efficiency. Look for a SEER rating of 14.5 or higher to qualify for the Energy Star rating and enjoy the best cooling efficiency possible.
- Heating efficiency: The second efficiency rating to consider when buying a heat pump is the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). For the best heating efficiency, look for an HSPF rating of 8.2 or higher to qualify for the Energy Star certification. In our climate, this rating isn’t that important.
- Variable-speed air handler: This allows the system to automatically adjust the amount of heated or cooled air the heat pump delivers based on demand. It improves efficiency and prevents uncomfortable temperature swings.
- Two-speed compressor: This is often coupled with a variable-speed air handler to heat or cool at the capacity currently needed. It also reduces wear on the compressor and helps the heat pump last longer.
- Desuperheater: High-efficiency heat pumps come with this advanced feature to direct waste heat during the cooling season toward your water heater, essentially providing you with free hot water all summer long.
These features and more are available to enhance home comfort and bring down your utility bills. For more help buying a heat pump, please contact NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating today. We serve Martin, Palm Beach and Indian River counties.
