Every home heat pump sold in the United States comes with an Energy Guide Label, which compares the heat pump’s heating and cooling efficiency to that of other brands and models.
The heating season performance factor (HSPF) for air-source electric heat pumps is a measure of the total heat delivered to the conditioned area, expressed in Btu, divided by the total electrical energy consumed by the heat pump system, expressed in watt-hours, over an average heating season.
The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is a measure of the total heat extracted from the conditioned area, expressed in Btu, divided by the total electrical energy consumed by the heat pump, expressed in watt-hours, over an average cooling season.
The greater the HSPF and SEER, the higher the cost of the unit in general. However, the larger initial expenditure can be repaid numerous times throughout the life of the heat pump due to the energy savings. A new central heat pump that replaces an older one will use much less energy, lowering air conditioning and heating expenditures significantly.
If you choose to go with an air-source electric heat pump, there are a few things to consider. SEER is more significant than HSPF in hotter regions. In colder climates, aim for the maximum HSPF possible.
Other things to consider while selecting and installing air-source heat pumps include:
- Choose a heat pump that has a demand-defrost function. This will reduce the number of defrost cycles, decreasing the amount of energy used by supplementary and heat pump systems.
- Noise is produced by fans and compressors. Choose a heat pump with a lower exterior sound rating and place it away from windows and nearby buildings (decibels). Mounting the device on a noise-absorbing base will also help to lessen the noise.
- The effectiveness of the outdoor unit may be influenced by its placement. High winds might create defrosting issues, thus outside units should be sheltered. To protect the coils from severe winds, strategically plant a shrub or a fence upwind of the coils.
Heat pumps also need a lot of areas; not only does the unit need to be located outside
your home, but the hot water cylinder must also be accommodated.
- Another factor to think about is the size of the heat pump you’ll need. Installing a heat pump that is too large for your home may cause your heating system to short cycle by releasing more heat than is necessary. An accredited heat pump installation will examine your property and requirements before providing a calculation to demonstrate the proper size heat pump required for best energy efficiency.
Different types of air source heat pumps
Below are descriptions of the various types of air source heat pumps.
- Short-Run Ducted
- Ductless
- Ducted
Only a three-inch hole in the wall is required to connect the outside condenser and the indoor heads in a ductless system. In addition, ductless systems are frequently implemented.
Ductwork is used in ducted systems. You might want to explore this system if your home currently has a ventilation system or if you’re building a new home.
Traditional big ductwork that only goes through a small area of the home is known as short-run ducted. Short-run ducted is usually supplemented by the ductless systems for the rest of the home.
Air Source Heat Pump Contractors and Installers
We are the UK’s top air source heat pump contractors for heating solutions. MCS-approved and qualified air source heat pump installers, our team of experts is here to help. Call us at 0800 0314395 to learn more about the air source heat pumps we install or visit our All Heating One website to schedule an appointment with our staff.