Heat Pump Buying Guide for Home Owners

Making a major purchase can be stressful, and a new heat pump is no exception. The more information you have, the more prepared you are, and the better decision you will ultimately make.

To help you on that path, review this brief buying guide for an idea of what to look for when purchasing a new heat pump.

Is a heat pump right for you?

Before delving deeper, consider whether a heat pump is really the best choice for you. A number of factors can affect your decision, so you may want to consult with a professional. As an example, heat pumps do not operate very efficiently in areas with cold climates. So, if you live in such an area, you may be better off with some other solution, like a furnace and air conditioner combo.

How much are you willing to spend?

Before looking at a single heat pump, sit down and work out a budget. Determine how much you have to spend on the unit itself, as well as the installation. Keep in mind while doing this that a heat pump can be an investment, as an efficient heat pump can mean lower heating bills each month.

What size heat pump do you need?

In order to know what capacity heat pump you will need, your home should be assessed by a professional. He will determine the volume to be heated, assess the insulation, etc. Do not skip this step and just get a heat pump that you are sure is plenty big enough. It may be too small or too big, neither of which is good for the longevity of the device or your comfort level.

How efficient do you want/need your heat pump to be?

Because of their dual function, heat pumps carry two different efficiency ratings: the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) for cooling and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) for heating. Essentially, the higher the number, the more efficient the heat pump is.

Efficiency is an economic trade off. More efficient machines cost more upfront, but will yield bigger savings over time. Remember to stick to that budget you worked out earlier!

Who should install your heat pump?

The short answer: a professional. Do not try to install your new heat pump yourself to save some money. It can very easily backfire and lead to much great expense to undo the mistakes.

For more information about home improvement, visit Cleveland plumbing contractor Pompeii’s Plumbing & Heating’s blog today!

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