What to Know Before Buying a New Heat Pump

With their ability to heat, cool and manage humidity efficiently, it’s no wonder heat pumps have become so popular. Still, despite their popularity, many Chickasaw, AL homeowners simply don’t know much about them. To help you make better, more informed choices for your home, here’s everything you need to know about buying a heat pump.

Do You Need a Heat Pump?

Like any mechanical system, your heat pump is prone to wear and tear over time. Regular preventive maintenance can extend its service life, but it will eventually need to be replaced. The clearest sign you need a replacement is frequent, costly repairs. It’s better to put your money toward a new system rather than patching up a failing one. Rising utility costs can also indicate that your system is becoming less efficient and is due for replacement. Age is an important consideration as well. As a general rule, you should consider replacing a heat pump that’s more than 10 years old.

If you’re replacing a different HVAC system or planning a new installation, a heat pump is still a great option. These systems work best in warm climates that rarely drop below freezing, making them ideal for the Chickasaw, Alabama, area. They can help you stay comfortable while saving money on heating and cooling and reducing your environmental impact. To properly evaluate your options, you can compare the cost of the system against your potential savings over its lifespan.

Choosing a New Heat Pump

When you’re shopping for a new heat pump system, there are several things to keep in mind. The first is efficiency, which is measured by a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. Federal standards require a minimum SEER of 14 for the Chickasaw area, though some systems boast ratings over 20. An HVAC professional can help you evaluate whether the added efficiency is worth the expense for your home. For many homes, however, a system with a SEER of 14 to 18 will still represent a meaningful efficiency upgrade.

There are also a few important advanced features you should consider, including variable speed motors and 2-stage compressors. Unlike traditional systems, heat pumps featuring these technologies can operate in several different modes. During hot or cold weather, variable speed motors and 2-stage compressors can operate at full capacity to deliver maximum comfort. On milder days, these systems operate at lower capacities for a longer period of time. This provides a serious efficiency boost, helps to manage humidity and air quality and offers greater temperature control.

The Importance of Proper Installation

To get the most from your new heat pump, there’s no substitute for an installation done by a qualified professional. First and foremost, trained HVAC installers can perform load calculations to ensure your system is sized correctly. This calculation uses the volume of your home, your insulation levels, and various other factors to determine the ideal heat pump size. This avoids common problems caused by improper sizing, including short cycling, compromised efficiency and poor comfort.

Additionally, professional installers can calculate and explain the balance point for your system. This is the point at which your heating needs and the capacity of the system intersect. Below this point, you’ll need supplemental heating. A professional can help you use this concept to maximize the efficiency of your system. They’ll also conduct rigorous testing during the installation to ensure that you have ideal airflow and performance. Finally, a professional installation is the perfect opportunity to connect your new heat pump to a smart thermostat. These brainy thermostats can be remotely controlled and programmed to precisely control your home temperature. They can even learn your schedules and routines to help you achieve even greater comfort and energy savings.

A heat pump is a great way to heat and cool your Chickasaw, Alabama, home. Now that you know the facts, you’re better equipped to choose the best system for your individual needs. To ensure the best experience and results, check out Air Specialty’s expert installation services or call 251-415-4559.