As you read HVAC rating sites you might be wondering why heat pumps are taking over the HVAC world! There are several key reasons why heat pumps account for a growing share of new HVAC systems every year. Here are the main reasons for the popularity of heat pumps.
Heat Pumps are Efficient
Just 15-20 years ago, heat pumps were only half as efficient as they are today. In fact, in many homes older heat pumps are being replaced with models that are more than twice as efficient. A typical heat pump 15-20 years ago was about 8 SEER for cooling. Today, heat pumps with SEER ratings over 20 are available.
Heat Pumps Cost Less to Operate
The most efficient gas furnaces are 98% efficient, which is very good. This means 98% of the energy they use goes to heat the home and only 2% is wasted. Heat pumps do even better! They use refrigerant to pump heat from one location to another. The electricity isn’t used to create the heat – it’s used only to power the system. The circulating refrigerant is capable of creating 3-5 times more heat than electricity alone could do in a space heater, for example. Therefore, it could be said that heat pumps are 300% to 500% efficient!
Energy Costs are High
The outrageously high cost of energy has spurred demand for more efficient heat pumps. The manufacturers have responded and heat pump efficiency has gone up dramatically in the last 10 years.
Homeowners Want to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
We’re more conscious than ever of the impact on the environment of our lifestyle. Many of us want to reduce that impact by driving energy-efficient cars and by installing energy-efficient products in our home. The greenest approach to a heating and cooling system is to choose the most efficient heat pump you can afford. Look for the SEER rating that measures cooling and the HSPF rating that measures heating. The higher the numbers, the less energy it uses. An added bonus is that the refrigerant now being used in heat pumps, R-410A, does not contain chlorine like older types. Therefore, it does not deplete the earth’s ozone layer.
Dual Fuel Heat Pumps are Perfect for Cool Climates
Heat pumps become ineffective when the temperature outside is below freezing. So for years, those in cooler climates couldn’t take advantage of their energy-efficiency. New dual fuel heat pumps, or hybrid heat pumps, can function in the same system with a gas furnace. Homeowners get the energy savings of a heat pump in chilly weather and can switch to gas heat in very cold weather.
Summary
It’s easy to see why heat pumps are taking over the HVAC world. They reduce utility bills and lower greenhouse gas emissions. They are now available for use in areas with very cold winter temperatures. In addition, the heating supplied by a heat pump is very gentle. Many homeowners find it more comfortable than the heat from a gas furnace.
In order to find the heat pump that is best for your home, take time to research heat pump reviews. Look for sites that give information about the efficiency of the heat pump as well as an overview of its top features. Pricing information is a bonus. You’ll find it on some of the best heat pump review sites. As you read about heat pumps, you’ll find outstanding models that will make your home very comfortable while keeping energy costs under control.
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