Heat pumps have been around for decades but were mainly only considered for milder climates. With advances in technology, today’s all-electric superior heat pumps make their advantages available to homeowners in colder climates as well.
What exactly is a heat pump?
A heat pump is basically a whole house air conditioner that can run “backwards” to also provide heat. Why is this a good thing? For starters, not every home is able to heat with natural gas. In some cases, new homes under construction are not even receiving permission for gas lines. This makes an all-electrical option that can do both heating and cooling more attractive – or maybe even essential.
A heat pump consists of an indoor air handler connected to an outdoor condensing unit. For air conditioning, the indoor unit absorbs heat from the inside of the home, sends it to the outside condenser, which cools the air and then returns it to the inside. The process is reversed to provide heating. This heating method is much cleaner than burning fossil fuels and provides zero emissions – a real win for the environment!
When considering what kind of heat pump to buy, three considerations are essential:
- Efficiency of the unit
- Cost of the unit
- Reliability of the unit
EFFICIENCY
The Department of Energy requires all air conditioning and heating equipment manufacturers to evaluate and rate the efficiency of their systems. For air conditioners, they have a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) number. Heating units have an HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). Because heat pumps have both heating and cooling capabilities, they use both numbers. The higher the number, the more efficient the heat pump.
COST
To determine the true cost of a heat pump, it is important to look at all contributing factors. First, of course, is the base price of the heat pump. Generally, the more efficient heat pumps (with higher number ratings) cost more initially. On the other hand, their operating costs are lower, so it may not take long to recoup the difference. A third factor is the quality or reliability of the unit.
QUALITY PARTS
A heat pump is only as reliable as the quality of each part that makes up the entire unit. Frequent repairs are not only an inconvenience; they can quickly make a less expensive unit seem like less of a bargain in the long run. The compressor is the hard-working heart of the unit and its most essential part. The compressor is where Ruud heat pumps really shine, but the housing of the unit is also an important factor.
If you do your research using the above three considerations, you may find that you cannot do better than a Ruud heat pump.
- Ruud is the only manufacturer to install a Copeland® Compliant Scroll® Compressor in all of its residential heat pump lines. These are recognized as the best in the industry for efficiency, reliability and quiet operation;
- Ruud heat pumps are housed in louvered, galvanized steel cabinets to protect the condensing elements from outdoor hazards;
- Ruud cabinets are powder-painted with high-quality enamel for appearance and durability;
- Ruud heat pumps use a grille design that allows them to operate more quietly;
- Fans are mounted under the grille, which protects them from the elements and directs air upward and away from plants and shrubbery.
Contact us for fast and knowledgeable service, a broad range of models, and a reliable source of replacement parts – and start enjoying new comfort and cost savings today!
