What is an Air Source Heat Pump? Our simplest explanation is that it is an air conditioner that runs backwards. Sounds kind of funny doesn’t it. In the summertime you are able to cool your home by extracting the heat from the house to the outdoors. In the wintertime the opposite occurs, the flow of freon reverses and through the process the unit pulls any heat in the outdoor air and delivers it into your home. Another small scale example of a heat pump is your refrigerator, this system extracts the heat from the food to cool it and the heat is usually delivered into the kitchen at the base of the unit.
How to Choose a Heat Pump System
RUUD has the most comprehensive, feature-loaded lineup in the heating industry. Their super-efficient technology provides savings on both gas and electricity. Whatever RUUD heating option you choose, you can depend on energy-saving, cost-effective, reliable performance for years to come.
Are Some Heat Pumps Better Than Others?
Naturally, energy efficiency is important. But when making your selection, remember low operating costs are little comfort if service and repair bills are high. Don’t be sold on energy efficiency alone.
RUUD is the only manufacturer to install the Compliant Scroll® Compressor, the industry best, in its entire residential heat pump line.
What Should I Know About SEER and HSPF?
The Department of Energy requires all air-conditioning and heating equipment manufacturers to evaluate and rate the efficiency of their equipment on a seasonal basis. These ratings are known as the SEER or, Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, for air conditioners, and the HSPF or, Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, for heating equipment. Heat pumps use both numbers. The higher the SEER or HSPF rating, the more efficient the heat pump. A high SEER/HSPF heat pump also can add value to your home which is important to today’s energy-conscious home buyers.
Are Exterior Features Important?
Absolutely! Look for features such as a louvered, galvanized steel cabinet to protect the condensing unit from outdoor hazards. And make sure the cabinet is powder-painted with a high-quality enamel for improved durability and appearance.
What Kind of Coils Should I Look For?
Look for copper tubing in the evaporator and condensing coil. Copper tubing is a good conductor of heat and is virtually immune to corrosion. And unlike fragile aluminum tubing, copper tubing is relatively simple to repair in the field.
Are Some Brands Quieter Than Others?
With some units, the outdoor fan can be a bothersome source of noise. RUUD units have a grille design that minimizes air restriction which allows the fan to operate more quietly. Also, the fan is mounted on the underside of the grille. This protects it from the elements and it directs airflow upward, away from plants and shrubbery.
Remember that even the best heat pumps need a little TLC from time to time to keep them running at their optimal efficiency and performance.