Heat pumps are HVAC systems that transfer heat energy from one medium to another. This method is among the most efficient approaches to heating and the same as air conditioning for cooling. There have been many impressive advancements in heat pump technologies in the last 20 years. These advancements have allowed heat pumps to become even more efficient. It has also made heat pumps a practical option in a broader range of climates throughout the U.S. Let’s explore why you should consider a heat pump over your current heating and cooling equipment.
1. All-In-One Heating and Cooling
Every heat pump can be used for both heating and cooling. For many homeowners, this eliminates the need for a conventional air conditioner and furnace pairing. The equipment takes up less physical space, and the equipment and installation costs are typically much less as well. Some homeowners choose to pair their heat pump with a furnace. This can provide better energy efficiency when cold temperatures fall below freezing but isn’t needed for most Georgians.
2. Ease of Conversion
If you currently have a central or forced air system, conversion to a heat pump is simple. A heat pump can use the same ductwork you already have in place. Depending on the age and condition of your current air handler, you may be able to use it, too. That will provide additional savings. If you opt for a dual-source heat pump, you may be able to use your existing furnace. Furnaces often last longer than heat pumps and ACs, so that’s another area you can save.
3. Energy Efficiency
Heat pumps are just as efficient as ACs and far more efficient than furnaces. Choosing a heat pump will lower your household’s carbon footprint and reduce your month-to-month heating costs. The U.S. EPA estimates you can lower your heating bill by about 15% if you have a gas furnace. The savings can be even more dramatic with a heat pump, which is 4.5 times more efficient than an ENERGY STAR gas furnace.
SEER
The seasonal energy efficiency ratio is a rating used to measure the cooling efficiency of heat pumps and ACs. It reflects how many watts a heat pump uses to move a unit of heat energy from inside to outside. The minimum in Georgia is 15.0 SEER and 14.3 SEER2. SEER2 is a new rating system version that accounts for static air pressure. When comparing heat pumps, only SEER to SEER and SEER2 to SEER2. The higher the number, the better. There are currently high-efficiency units with a rating as high as 22 SEER2.
HSPF
The heating seasonal performance factor is similar to SEER2. It measures how many watts a heat pump uses to move heat energy. The difference is that it measures transferring heat energy from the outside to the inside. There is a new HSPF2 rating as well. The minimum HSPF is 8.8. The minimum HSPF2 is 7.5. The higher the number, the better the efficiency. Only compare HSPF to HSPF and HSPF2 to HSPF2. There are currently high-efficiency heat pumps with an HSPF2 as high as 10.5.
4. Geothermal Heating and Cooling
The heat pumps discussed so far are air-sourced, transferring heat energy to and from the ambient air. Geothermal heating and cooling is an alternative to this approach. A geothermal heat pump transfers heat energy to or from the earth or a large body of water. The downside to a geothermal system is that it costs much more to install initially.
The upside is that it can provide a lower total cost of ownership. The heat pumps themselves tend to have longer lifespans. The in-ground or in-water infrastructure can last for 50 years or more. The system is also more efficient due to the abundance of heat energy in the ground. That means that it will cost less to run every month. Pairing it with a furnace for the coldest temperatures is also unnecessary.
5. Better Indoor Air Quality
Heat pumps and ACs will not harm air quality if you care for them. Change the HVAC filter as needed. Schedule seasonal tune-ups and duct cleaning every three years or so. On the other hand, furniture negatively affects air quality because of combustion. Carbon monoxide is a concern. You need to have active CO monitors near the unit. Furnaces also give off fine particulate matter. While a furnace will exhaust much of it, a lot of particulate matter still enters your living spaces.
6. Quieter Heating
Heat pumps, like ACs, are quiet. The newer variable-speed heat pumps are even quieter because they can ramp down. This is not the case with furnaces. Furnaces are loud due to the combustion, and those sounds travel through the ducts. This can be particularly problematic in smaller homes, where the rumbling is quite noticeable.
7. Better Humidity Control
A humidifier is an effective add-on to any heating system. Many people believe gas furnaces dry out the air. Gas furnaces don’t dry out the air. It’s just a byproduct of cycling dry winter air into your home. A humidifier can combat this, making your home more comfortable and heating more efficient. Many homes have a humidifier that runs when the heat pump or furnace does not. These types of systems tend to be more effective with heat pumps. Unlike traditional furnaces and air conditioners, heat pumps cycle for a more extended, consistent period rather than in shorter bursts.
8. Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit
The current federal tax credit lets you claim 30% of an HVAC project’s cost up to a limit. The equipment has to meet certain energy-efficiency standards. The good news is that a heat pump is eligible for the minimum SEER2 and HSPF2. You just need to ensure you’re choosing an ENERGY STAR-certified model. Most homeowners can save at least $600, but that amount can be much higher depending on the equipment.
9. Local Rebates and Other Incentives
Local rebates are also available through local utilities, state and local government agencies, and nonprofit groups. These are not linked to your taxes and are essentially cash back. You can see all rebates available in Georgia on the EPA website. You can also claim multiple rebates depending on which organizations offer them and for different equipment, including the thermostat.
Heat Pump Installation in Dallas
If you want a heat pump installed in Dallas or the surrounding areas, Precision Heating & Air is here to help. Our HVAC technicians install both ducted and ductless heat pumps. We also install, maintain, and repair central air conditioners, forced air furnaces, and ductless ACs. Our team includes IAQ experts who clean ducts and install dehumidifiers, humidifiers, air purifiers, and ventilators. We can install a programmable or smart thermostat and configure it for you. Precision Heating & Air also has plumbers who install and repair tanks, tankless water heaters, and much more. Contact Precision Heating & Air today with any questions or to schedule a service appointment or in-home consultation.
