Homeowners are more concerned than ever today with energy efficiency in their homes. Manufacturers of heating and cooling systems have responded with the production of new high-efficiency units that produce superior levels of comfort along with reduced energy use. When you are considering a heat pump for your home heating in Fresno, you should examine the two ratings that will tell you how efficient a particular unit is: HSPF and SEER. For more information to help you select, size, and install a heat pump, contact our professionals at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning.
HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor)
HSPF is the efficiency rating for a heat pump when it is in heating mode. The number is a ratio of the amount of heat the unit generates (in BTUs, British Thermal Units) to the amount of electricity consumed (in watt-hours) as averaged over a season of heating. The higher the number, the more efficient the heat pump is at converting electricity into heating power. Many heat pumps have HSPF around 10 or 11; they are somewhat less efficient in heating mode than in cooling mode, but for the winter climates in Fresno they are usually sufficient for quality warmth.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating)
SEER measures efficiency when a heat pump is in cooling mode; it is the same efficiency measurement used for standalone air conditioning systems. SEER is a ratio of the amount of heat the unit absorbs from the indoors (in BTUs) to the electricity in watt-hours, measured over a season. As with HSPF, the higher the number, the more efficient the unit. Heat pumps often have SEER of 14 or greater, and are effective for combating almost any level of outdoor heat—provided the system received professional installation.
The HSPF and SEER of a heat pump are only two factors that go into the selection of a heat pump for a house. A system can have high efficiency, yet still not work well for the home’s comfort needs. To make sure you receive quality cooling and heating from a heat pump, contact the skilled technicians at Purl’s Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning to handle the installation job. Call us today to arrange your heat pump service in Fresno.