What is a Heat Pump? 7 Heat Pump User Tips
Heat pumps can keep a space warm by collecting heat from the outside environment and pumping into a controlled interior space. They often prove to be a cost effective and energy conscious options because they require a small amount of energy to function and are not dependent on burning fuel in order to heat a home. They work most effectively in areas with milder temperatures.
7 Heat pump User Tips
1. Check your heat pumpโs seasonal energy efficiency rating. The seasonal energy efficiency rating or SEER is an 18-point scale that indicates the ratio of cooling to the energy that is used by the device. Some sources recommend selecting a unit with a SEER rating no lower than 14. The SEER is a measure of how energy efficient your heat pump is.
2. Check your heat pumpโs heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). Like the SEER, the heating seasonal performance factor is a measure of your heat pumpโs efficiency on a scale of 1 to 10. It is a ratio of the energy that is collected from the outside environment for heating to the energy that is expended to heat a controlled space. Sources recommend selecting a unit with a HSPF no lower than 8.
3. Avoid using your heat pumpโs emergency heat setting. One of the benefits of a heat pump over other heating and cooling options is its energy efficiency. Selecting the emergency heat setting on your thermostat can reduce the energy efficient properties of your unit.
4. Consider looking into heat pumps with features that add to their efficiency. Though it could add to the cost of the unit, individuals that purchase heat pumps additional features that make them more efficient will find that they will get their moneyโs worth. Features like desuperheater coil that uses recycled heat or a dual mode compressor can save energy resulting in savings for the homeowners that purchase heat pumps that have them.
5. Consider a ground-source system heat pump. Heat pumps using ground-source systems are often protected from the ravages of the weather because of the manner in which they are installed and are cheaper to use because they are drawing from sources that have relatively stable temperatures.
6. Early trouble shooting is key. When heat pump owners suspect that there are any problems with their heating and cooling system they should be sure to acquire the services of a professional maintenance company specializing in heat pump repair to keep repair costs as low as possible.
7.Keep your heat pump clean. One way of preventing damage to a heat pump is to keep it clean. Heat pumps that are exposed to the outside environment are susceptible to being filled with dirt or leaves. Heat pump owners can do this by cleaning any debris that is on or around the heat pumpโs fan.
Want to install a heat pump in your St. Michael home? Call B & D Plumbing, Heating & A/C at (763) 497-2290 today for quick and reliable services.