As outdoor temperatures start to chill, indoor heating and comfort become increasingly important. While most folks still rely on traditional gas heating systems, the popularity of heat pumps is on the rise. That’s because new technology and increasing improvements in design and installation have made heat pump systems one of the most efficient and cost-effective alternatives. Imagine a single system for heating, cooling and hot water. Modern heat pumps make it possible!
Using electricity as an energy source, heat pumps can be used for heating and cooling of homes by transferring heat between two reservoirs. Rather than generating heat like conditioning systems, heat pumps use refrigerant to move it around. During colder months, heat from outdoor air is extracted and transferred to the interior of the home. It’s hard to believe, but even during a 32 degree- or technically freezing- day, pumps can produce enough heat to keep you very comfortable. Newer heat pump systems can take things a step further and pull warmth out of even sub-zero temperatures. No supplemental heating is required.
Heat pumps reduce humidity and actually result in cleaner interior air as filters remove airborne particles and dust. They’re also relatively quiet. And, they’re a terrific alternative to heaters that use oil, gas or propane. But, until recently, it was doubtful whether or not heat pumps could truly get the job done in the coldest parts of the country, like the U.S. Northeast.
One of the measures of the effectiveness of a heat pump system is the Heating Seasonal Performance (HSPF) efficiency rating. The higher the number, the greater the efficiency and cost savings. HSPF is calculated by taking the total annual heating requirements, divided by the total electric power used. While the most efficient heat pumps five years ago maxed out at an HSPF of 10, newer systems by companies such as Carrier register an HSPF as high as 13. Other high-performance heat pump systems, designed for temperatures up to -13 degrees Fahrenheit, are offered through Mitsubishi. These systems also feature a high SEER rating, which measures how well a pump system can cool a home by transferring heat from the indoors to the outdoors.
As engineers work diligently to bolster the output of heat pump efficiency, more and more consumers are switching to these simple, multi-function systems to realize a tremendous cost savings year round. Not only are the systems easy to install, they come in a variety of forms to suit a variety of needs. There are wall mounted, floor mounted and ceiling mounted systems, as well as ducted systems.
Want to find out more about how a heat pump system might improve your heating and cooling while minimizing impact on the environment and your bank account? Please visit our heating page for more information or call our experts at Unique Indoor Comfort for your free estimate today!