Going to a Heat-Pump System? Weigh the HSPF Ratings

Since the climate in Charlotte, North Carolina requires only moderate heating and cooling, a heat pump is an energy-efficient way to keep your home temperature the way you want it. However, not all heat pumps are created equal. You can figure out which heat-pump system is your best choice by weighing the HSPF ratings.

Why are HSPF ratings so important?

HSPF ratings tell you how efficient a heat pump is. A more efficient heat pump will result in less energy use and increased energy savings over the life of the system compared to a less efficient one.

What does HSPF stand for?

HSPF is short for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor.

What do HSPF ratings measure?

HSPF ratings measure the heating efficiency of a heat pump system by dividing the amount of heating required during a heating season with the amount of the total electrical energy used. Ratings are based on the following factors:

• The efficiency of the heat pump system’s compressor
• The efficiency of the electric-resistance elements of the heat pump system
• The number of BTUs (British thermal units) of heat that the heat pump system moves for every watt-hour of electrical energy used

What is considered a good HSPF rating?

The higher the HSPF rating, the more efficient a heat pump is. Generally, you should look for heat pumps with a HSPF rating of between 8 and 10. Heat-pumps with a rating of at least 7.7 HSPF are awarded the Energy Star label by the U.S. EPA. However, for a heat pump to have the Energy Star label, it must also have a SEER rating of 12 or greater. SEER, short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, measures the cooling efficiency of a heat pump.

How do I find the HSPF rating of a heat pump system?

All heat pump systems sold in the U.S. have an EnergyGuide Label. Check a product’s label to find its HSPF rating as well as its cooling efficiency performance rating.

Contact Acosta Heating, Cooling & Electricalfor more information about heat pump systems and HSPF ratings. Ask us about our products and services and how we can help you with all of your heating and cooling needs.