The answer is yes! Heat pumps can be a cheaper source of heat than gas furnaces.  We say “can be” because both heat pumps and gas furnaces come in models with varying levels of efficiency.  How efficient each one is will affect the side by side comparison.  However, the average heat pump will lower your utility bills when compared to the average gas furnace.  This guide explains why.

Gas Furnace Efficiency

Today’s gas furnaces can be very efficient.  The least efficient models are 80% efficient which means that 80% of the heat created is used in your home while 20% is lost out the flue.  That’s a lot of waste, when you think about it.  These furnaces are fairly inexpensive and so may be cost-effective in warm climates where the furnace isn’t used much and low equipment costs are more important than high efficiency. In cool climates, an 80% efficient furnace will lead to very high utility bills.

High-efficiency gas furnaces are 95% to 98% efficient, a vast improvement over 80%. These furnaces are a better choice for cooler climates and for homeowners who want to reduce their use of non-renewable fuel sources.

Heat Pump Efficiency

When people think of inefficient, costly electric heat they are thinking of space heaters and possibly electric furnaces.  These types of equipment do create expensive heat.  They are 100% efficient – they turn 100% of the electricity into heat – but electricity is quite expensive to make at the power plant.

However, heat pumps DO NOT use electricity to heat – not directly anyway. The do not convert electricity to heat like a space heater. They are powered by electricity, but it is the refrigerant that provides the heat.  All the electricity does is supply power to move the refrigerant through the system. Because of this, they can be more than 100% efficient – much more, in fact.

How Heat Pumps Work

Heat pumps get their name because they pump heat from one location to another.  When heating, they collect heat outside and carry it inside to heat your home.  Refrigerant is the key.  It has the ability to quickly absorb a large amount of heat – even when outside temperatures are as low as 35-40 degrees.

The refrigerant expands in the outside coil of the heat pump and absorbs heat.  The compressor, powered by electricity, pumps the hot refrigerant gas into your home.  It enters the indoor coil in the furnace or air handler where it condenses back into a liquid, shedding the heat in the process.  The indoor coil gets very hot as a result, and the blower fan pulls cool air from your home over it, heating the air and distributing it to the various rooms.

How Efficient Are Heat Pumps?

Today’s heat pumps must be at least 13 SEER for cooling and 7.7 HSPF for heating.  A heat pump with that efficiency level will create about 300% of the heat that electricity alone could create.  The most efficient heat pumps are over 20 SEER and 12.0 HSPF, representing a 500% efficiency rate for the amount of electricity they use.

Now do you see why a heat pump can be cheaper than a gas furnace to heat with?  While electricity is still more expensive than gas, when you factor in the multiplying effect that refrigerant has, it produces outstanding cost advantages for heat pumps.

Cost Savings with a Heat Pump

Heat pumps and gas furnaces both come in models with different efficiency levels.  On average, however, a heat pump will save you 20% to 40% on your utility bills when compared with a gas furnace.  Heat pumps are becoming more popular with each passing year and the energy cost savings they offer is one of the primary reasons for this.

Heat pumps are becoming a very popular way to heat, and more homeowners are considering them.  As you consider a new HVAC system, what’s right for your home, a gas furnace and air conditioner or a gas furnace and heat pump?

There are several factors that you should consider as you evaluate which one would work best for you.

The Best Climate for a Heat Pump

Heat pumps heat very efficiently until temperatures drop into the 40s.  They become ineffective in freezing weather.  Therefore, standard heat pumps are not a good choice for cold climates.  However, most manufacturers now make dual fuel heat pumps that can be used in a split system with a gas furnace.  These are an outstanding choice for cool climates.  You get the utility cost savings of a heat pump in cool weather and the effectiveness of a gas furnace in cold weather.

The Cost of a Heat Pump

Expect to pay 5% to 10% more for dual fuel heat pumps than for standard heat pumps.  In addition dual fuel heat pumps tend to be the more efficient models made by some manufacturers, making them more expensive.  The bottom line is, you’ll pay more for a dual fuel heat pump.

The Payback Period for a Dual Fuel Heat Pump

Using the heat pump in cool weather rather than having only the furnace to heat with will cut your utility bills because heat pumps are significantly more efficient than furnaces in cool weather. The payback period for buying a heat pump rather than a less expensive air conditioner, in terms of energy savings, will be just 1-3 years.

Is a Dual Fuel Heat Pump Worth the Money?

In the majority of cases, yes, a dual fuel heating system is an excellent economic choice.  For most homeowners, the yearly heating bills will be significantly lower with a gas furnace and heat pump combination.  With a payback period of 3 years or less, most consumers will benefit from paying extra to have a heat pump installed. With energy costs so volatile, a gas furnace and heat pump system also gives you versatility in case one type of fuel becomes much more expensive relative to the other.

If you plan to sell your home in the next few years, you might not get paid back for the extra cost of the heat pump. However, having a dual fuel heating system will be very attractive to some potential home buyers if you put your home on the market.

Conclusion

We identify dual fuel heat pumps in our heat pump reviews.  They are made by Trane, Carrier, Lennox, Goodman, Amana, and many other brands.  Here are a few models to look at:

Trane XL20i heat pump.

Dave Lennox Signature Collection XP21 heat pump.

Lennox Elite XP16 heat pump.

Carrier Infinity 25HNA9 heat pump.

Goodman 16 SEER R-410A Refrigerant — SSZ16 heat pump.

Bryant Preferred Series model 223A 15 SEER heat pump.

Coleman Echelon Series Model HC8B 18 SEER heat pump.

With their increasing popularity, it is likely you’ll see more dual fuel heat pumps across the efficiency and performance range. Should you buy a gas furnace and a heat pump for your home?  With the benefits these split systems provide, it is definitely worth considering.

The top rated heat pumps 2012 have one thing in common – they are all at or near the top of their class in quality and performance.  Those are the primary criteria used to put this list together.  Are they built with quality components?  If you install one of them in your home, can you rely on it to give you dependable service for the next 15-20 years?  If we could confidently answer “yes” to those questions in regard to a specific heat pump, it was considered for this top rated heat pumps 2012 list.

Heat Pump Efficiency Level

As you go through the list, you’ll see we didn’t use energy efficiency level as the main criteria.  Instead, we chose heat pumps from across the efficiency spectrum.  We did this because homeowner’s needs are different based on the climate where they live, their budget, and their long-term plans for living in their current home.  Generally speaking, the more extreme the temperatures are in your area, the higher the efficiency level should be for the heat pump you choose.  You’ll pay more for the heat pump but it will reduce your utility bills and start to pay you back immediately.  If you only plan to be in your home 3-5 years, a less efficient model might make more sense than paying more for a higher efficiency heat pump you won’t get your money from.

With those issues in mind, our list covers all the bases.  It starts with the most efficient top heat pumps for 2012 and goes down from there.  All of these are high-quality models that you should get good value and service from in the years ahead. Note: Heat Pumps must achieve 14.5 SEER to be Energy Star rated models, so all of these heat pumps make the grade.

Top Rated Heat Pumps 2012

1. Maytag PSH4BI iQ Drive 22 SEER 10 HSPF Heat Pump

22 SEER cooling; 10.0 HSPF heating.

This is an extremely efficient, intelligent heat pump that will keep your home very comfortable.  The Maytag PSH4BI is a high-end model that features state of the art technology.  As you might guess, it’s also quite expensive. The heart of the great efficiency and performance is the modulating compressor that ranges from 40%-100% capacity, delivering just enough heating or cooling to maintain very balanced temperatures. It modulates in 1% increments and adjusts during each cycle.

This is a very quiet heat pump, too, since it runs on lower capacity most of the time.  It has a dehumidification mode that removes more humidity during cooling cycles. The iQ controller rivals the Carrier Infinity controller as one of the best on the market. It is enclosed by a durable, attractive stainless steel cabinet to complete the package.

2. Carrier Infinity Series Heat Pump with Greenspeed Intelligence / Carrier Infinity 25VNAO

20.5 SEER cooling; 13.0 HSPF heating.

Carrier takes heating to the next level with this model, sporting the highest HSPF you’ll find on the market.  This is a great choice for those who live where both summers and winters produce extreme temperatures. Like the Maytag PSH4BI, this one has a modulating compressor, though Carrier calls it a variable speed compressor.  The effect is the same – very precise climate control in all seasons, and even quieter operation.

The Carrier Infinity Series heat pump with Greenspeed Intelligence, also known as the Infinity 25VNAO, is a popular choice with homeowners embracing green technology for their homes.

3. American Standard Platinum ZM Heritage 20 Heat Pump

19 SEER cooling; 9.0 HSPF heating.

This heat pump isn’t as efficient as the first 2, but it’s not as expensive either.  It will help reduce heating and cooling costs by 50%, possibly more, when it replaces an older unit.  This is a top-quality 2-stage heat pump that actually uses 2 separate compressors.  The first maintains comfortable temperatures; the second one kicks in when a boost in heating or air conditioning is required. The American Standard Platinum ZM has one of the best warranties on the market too, demonstrating its top quality.

4. Trane XL16i Heat Pump

18 SEER cooling; 9.2 HSPF heating.

This is part of Trane’s best line, though not it’s most efficient heat pump. We think this one offers the best combination of value and performance.

This is a dual fuel heat pump, as all the Trane XLi models are, and we see that as a real advantage.  What it means is that this heat pump can be included in a split system with a gas furnace.  Heat pumps cost less to run than furnaces do when temperatures are above about 40 degrees F. Below that level they lose efficiency and effectiveness. A dual fuel heat pump like this is a great choice where winters get very cold. The Trane XL16i is a 2-stage heat pump.

5. Heil Model 9.5 HSPF 17 SEER Heat Pump

17 SEER cooling; 9.5 HSPF heating.

Heil sometimes gets overlooked by brands with more hype, but this is a rock-solid heat pump that offers a good price and very good efficiency. This model also goes by the name Heil QuietComfort DXT+ two-stage heat pump.  The names provide the details: Energy-efficient, 2-stage heating and cooling for outstanding climate control in all seasons.

6. Lennox Elite XP16

17 SEER cooling; 8.7 HSPF heating.

We favor dual fuel heat pumps because of their versatility.  They give homeowners in cooler climates the chance to enjoy the energy savings and lower utility bills a heat pump produces in all but the coldest temperatures.  Before dual fuel heat pumps, gas furnaces were the only option. The Lennox XP16 uses a 2-stage compressor to produce indoor comfort without hot/cold zones in your home.

7. Goodman 16 SEER R-410A Refrigerant — SSZ16 Heat Pump

16 SEER cooling; 9.75 HSPF heating.

This is another dual fuel heat and a very good choice for cooler climates where a very high SEER rating isn’t as important. Goodman is one of the most affordable brands in the industry yet it has a very good warranty. It also uses the top-rated Copeland Ultratech scroll compressor.

8. Bryant Preferred Series model 223A 15 SEER Heat Pump

15.5 SEER cooling; 8.8 HSPF heating.

This dual fuel model an ideal heat pump for northern climates.  You don’t pay for SEER you don’t need – 15.5 is a cost-effective choice where summers are not very hot.  But you can combine it with a gas furnace to get the most cost-effective heating based on the current temperatures.  It’s a single-stage model which isn’t quite as comfortable but is less expensive than a 2-stage model.

9. Ruud model UPQL-AZ Heat Pump

15 SEER cooling; 10.45 HSPF.

The Ruud UPQL-AZ has best in class heating, impressive for a 15 SEER model that is very affordable.  This single-stage model is a good choice for mild climates where winters can get quite cold at times.  It also uses a Copeland compressor.

10. York model THGF Heat Pump

14.5 SEER cooling; 9.0 HSPF heating.

This is a well-built, reliable single-stage heat pump that is ideal for mild climates without temperature extremes.  It is popular along the Pacific Coast and in other mild regions. The low price of the York THGF heat pump also make it a good choice for vacations homes and cabins where low cost is more important than high efficiency because the unit isn’t heavily used.

Summary

Which of the top rated heat pumps 2012 is right for you?  Keep your budget, needs and lifestyle in mind as you peruse this list.  See our HVAC reviews for individual reviews on these heat pumps once you decide which ones you want to learn more about.

If you’re considering installing a new heat pump this season you’ll want to know what is new with heat pumps for winter 2011 & 2012.  There are several new, important trends in heat pump design that are affecting performance and efficiency.  This heat pumps guide outlines these trends so you can take advantage of them and find a heat pump that will give you greater home comfort and lower utility bills.

High Efficiency Heat Pumps

The continued rise in energy costs has driven manufacturers to produce heat pumps that are more efficient than ever.  While these units cost more to purchase, in climates with cool winters and hot summers, the difference in price is usually recovered in less than 5 years. They are reducing utility bills significantly.  Here are 2 new heat pumps that are very efficient:

1. Carrier Greenspeed heat pump: Also known as the Carrier Infinity 25VNAO heat pump, it offers incredible, Energy Star efficiency.  It delivers an excellent 20 SEER for air conditioning.  The 13.0 HSPF efficiency for heating is the new standard for the industry.  Prior to the Carrier Greenspeed, 9.0 to 10.0 was considered a very high HSPF.

2. Maytag PSH4BI iQ Drive heat pump: This heat pump offers better a better SEER rating at 22, with a very respectable 10.0 HSPF.  This is another heat pump that will reduce heating and cooling costs in some homes by more than 50% when replacing an model 15+ years old.

Variable or Modulating Heat Pumps

Until recently, compressors were either single-stage compressors with on/off operation or they were 2-stage models.  The 2-stage compressors run on low most of the time, improving temperature balance and reducing noise.  They’re a definite improvement in home comfort.  Now, a new generation of modulating or variable compressors is coming to market.  Instead of low/high operation, they offer precise heating and cooling, adjusting by as little as 1%.  They deliver exactly the amount of heat or air conditioning required to perfectly maintain the indoor climate.  Variable and modulating heat pumps run longer cycles, and with a variable speed air handler, also do a better job controlling humidity and producing superior air quality. If you want to research these heat pumps, start with these models:

1. Maytag iQ Drive heat pumps: These were among the first modulating heat pumps on the market and continue to set the pace for performance.  There are several different efficiency levels so you can choose the one that is right for your climate.

2. Carrier Infinity 25VNAO: It’s not surprising that this Carrier Greenspeed heat pump has a variable compressor.  It’s an essential part of raising efficiency as well as producing home comfort.

Dual Fuel Heat Pumps

These heat pumps have been around for a few years but they are becoming more popular every year.  The reason is that high-efficiency heat pumps cost less to operate now than gas furnaces do when the weather allows for heat pump use.  So, when temperatures are above 35-40F, a heat pump will save you money over a gas furnace. When heat pumps lose effectiveness due to very cold temperatures, the system switches to heating with the gas or oil furnace. Dual fuel heat pumps, sometimes called hybrid heat models, are made by several manufacturers.  You can learn more about these models in our HVAC reviews on them. Here are some of the best:

1. Dave Lennox Signature Collection XP21 heat pump: With 19 SEER and 9.5 HSPF, this heat pump will lower energy bills all year. The Lennox XP17 is less efficient, less expensive, but also duel fuel.

2. Goodman 16 SEER R-410A Refrigerant — SSZ16 heat pump: This is one of the most affordable dual fuel heat pumps and it is backed by an outstanding warranty.

3. Trane XL20i heat pump: This is the top of the line from Trane and one of the most dependable heat pumps in the industry.

4. Carrier Infinity 25HNA9 heat pump: This efficient heat pump (19 SEER/9.5 HSPF) is a high-performance model that will make your home very comfortable.

5. Coleman Echelon Series Model HC8B 18 SEER heat pump: This model offers 10.0 HSPF so it’s a good choice for cooler climates and when matched with a gas furnace, can really lower winter utility bills.

Green Technology Heat Pumps

Both modulating heat pumps and dual fuel heat pumps use less energy and are therefore a greener alternative to single-stage and most 2-stage heat pumps.  In addition, all heat pumps are now being produced with R-410A refrigerant – or a variant of it such as Puron (Carrier/Bryant) or SmartCool 410 (Maytag). The refrigerant is more efficient.  In addition, it does not contain chlorine, the chemical responsible for harming the earth’s ozone layer.  Heat pump manufacturers are making their products more recyclable where possible. The move to green energy is definitely picking up speed in the heat pump industry.

Summary

If you buy one of today’s high-performance, high-efficiency heat pumps, you’ll start reducing your utility bills immediately and at the same time reduce your environmental impact.  That’s a win-win situation that many homeowners find very attractive, fueling the popularity of these energy-efficient heat pumps that can also make your home very comfortable. For more information on any of these models, see our heat pump reviews and talk to a qualified contractor about your home’s heating and cooling needs.

If you are interested in heat pumps, how they function and save you money, this heat pump guide will answer important questions for you.  Heat pumps are innovative and energy-efficient products that do a fantastic job heating and cooling homes for very affordable prices.  Here’s a look at the details.

How Heat Pumps Function

Heat pumps get their name from the fact that they move heat, or pump it, from one location to another.  In winter, they capture heat outside and shed it indoors.  In summer, they do the opposite.  How heat pumps work depends on refrigerant, a substance with the ability to quickly expand and absorb heat and then quickly condense and expel heat.  Heat pumps are very similar to central air conditioners except that they both heat and cool.

It will help to understand this if you know the basic components of a heat pump.  The unit that is installed outside is called the condensing unit.  It contains a compressor, an outdoor coil, a fan, and other supporting parts.  Indoors, an air handler is installed that contains a blower fan and the indoor coil.  Dual fuel heat pump systems use a gas furnace indoors.  The two coils are connected with a copper lineset.

For heating, the compressor pumps liquid refrigerant into the outdoor coil where a valve causes it to expand into a gas, rapidly absorbing heat from around the coil.  As a hot gas, the refrigerant then travels to the indoor coil.  There, a second valve causes it to condense back into a liquid, shedding heat in the process.  The indoor coil gets quite hot and the blower fan circulates air over the coil.  Cold air is drawn into the ductwork by the blower.  It is heated as it passes over the coil and is then distributed to the rooms of the home.  After shedding its heat, the refrigerant cycles back outside.  The action of the refrigerant continues until the home is as warm as it should be, according to the thermostat.

That is how a heat pump functions when heating.  For cooling, the flow of refrigerant is reversed via a reversing valve.  The heat pump functions by absorbing heat at the indoor coil and carrying it outside.  As heat is removed from the air around the indoor coil, it gets very cold.  The blower circulates air over the coil to cool the air before pushing it into the home to cool the rooms.

How Heat Pumps Save Your Money

The key to cost savings with a heat pump is again the refrigerant.  It has the ability to multiply the work of electricity in heating.  For example, with a space heater, 1 kilowatt of energy produces the equivalent of 1 kilowatt of heat.  However, using that same electricity to circulate refrigerant means that the 1 kilowatt of energy produces the equivalent of 3-5 kilowatts of heat.  Heat pumps use refrigerant to vastly improve the efficiency of the electricity used.

The less difference there is between the outside and inside temperatures, the more efficient any heat pump will be.  For example, a heat pump will use less electricity when warming a house to 72 degrees when it is 60F outside, and more when it is 50F outside.  Above about 40F to 45F, a heat pump is more cost-effective for heating than a gas furnace.  In other words, it will cost less to run a heat pump in mild to cool weather.  Once the outside temperatures fall into the low-40’s, heat pumps lose too much efficiency to be cost-effective.  Gas furnaces are more economical in very cold weather.

These facts make a heat pump a very affordable choice in moderate and mild climates as well as during chilly fall and spring weather in cold climates.  This is a change from heat pumps just a few years ago.  Those models installed 15-20 years ago had heating efficiencies (HSPF) of 4-6.  Heat pumps installed today offer HSPF efficiency from 7.5 to 10.0 or higher.  They reduce heating and cooling costs by 50% or more in many homes.

The most efficient systems in cold climates are dual fuel systems, called hybrid heat as well.  These heat pumps are designed to work in conjunction with a gas furnace instead of an air handler.  With dual fuel systems, the homeowner programs the system to switch at an outside temperature of their choosing.  In most cases, the heat pump heat the home until temperatures drop into the mid-40’s and then the furnace takes over.  This allows the homeowner to get the best energy efficiency throughout the entire heating season.

Summary

We hope this guide helps you understand how heat pumps function and how heat pumps help you save money.  They are an affordable choice for home heating and cooling.  To peruse today’s best heat pumps, see our HVAC reviews.  You’ll find many heat pump reviews along with heat pump prices that allow you to compare equipment costs for models you are considering.

If you’re planning the purchase of a new heat pump, you may be wondering about heat pump installation costs and how much you should pay. This heat pump installation guide takes a look at the costs involved in the process.

New Construction

For a newly constructed home, heat pump installation is generally less expensive because it takes fewer hours to complete.  There is no old heat pump to disconnect and remove, saving time and disposal fees.  With proper planning in new construction situations, the installation of the plenum to connect the heat pump to the duct work should be quite simple. Possible heat pump installation costs that might be extra with new construction would be pouring a pad for the unit to sit on and boring a hole in the foundation for the wiring and copper lineset.

New construction heat pump installation costs: $1,500-$2,500

Existing Homes

In existing homes, the installation of a new heat pump can be straightforward and easy or it can be difficult and time consuming. In most instances, it is more difficult in existing homes than it is in new homes.  Since an estimate for installation is determined by the amount of time and materials required, it is often more expensive as well.  The old heat pump needs to be disconnected and properly disposed of, and that cost will usually be passed along to the homeowner.  The refrigerant lineset for the old unit may not be the right size or it may be in poor condition and will need to be removed.  Occasionally, extensive modification to the duct work will need to be done, and that is time consuming and expensive. These factors add up and make installation somewhat more expensive.

Existing home heat pump installation costs: $1,800-$3,000

Other Factors that Affect the Cost of Installation

There are a few other factors that affect installation costs.  First, local prices can be affected by the local cost of living as well as the level of competition in your area.  Secondly, work done at the peak of summer or winter will usually be more expensive.  When contractors are less busy, in fall or spring, they are more likely to offer discounts or give lower estimates to try to secure the work.  Thirdly, difficult installations, whether in new homes or old homes will cost more.  Connecting a heat pump to an air handler in a cramped crawl space or in an attic will cost more than connecting it to an air handler in a roomy basement of first-floor utility room.

The more of these factors that are true in your installation, the closer to the high end of the spectrum your costs will be.  Also, these prices include just the installation of the heat pump.  If you also replace the air handler or gas furnace, expect the costs to be about double.  Keep these heat pump installation costs in mind as you plan the budget for building your new home or doing work on your existing home.

Homeowners often want to know what the most common heat pump repairs are so that they can plan ahead for the costs involved.  In this heat pump guide, we provide a list of the repairs grouped by price so that you’ll know what to expect and how to budget.

General Repairs

Heat pumps are part of HVAC systems and general repairs common to all types of systems are required from time to time.  The price ranges we give include the cost of installation.  You may also want to know that most heating and air conditioning companies now charge a service fee for coming to your home to diagnose the problem. That fee is often based on the mileage involved in getting to your home and is also affected by the cost of living in your area.  The service fee may be cancelled if work is done and paid for during the call or if you sign a contract to have major work done or a new heat pump installed.  Service fee range: $50-$125

General Heat Pump Repairs Under $200

Fuses and circuit breaker replacement; inexpensive thermostats; condensate drain line and pan cleaning; electrical switches and relays; duct cleaning per supply run.

General Heat Pump Repairs from $200-$400

Drain pan replacement; high-end programmable thermostats (a few are even more expensive); circuit  board replacement; defrost control board replacement; system cleaning and tune-up.

Specific Heat Pump Repairs Under $400

Copper lineset installation or replacement; reversing valve replacement; condenser fan motor replacement; contactors and capacitors replacement; TVX replacement.

Specific Heat Pump Repairs Over $400

Compressor replacement ($700-$1200); indoor or outdoor coil replacement ($600-$900).

Summary

As you can see, the cost of rebuilding a heat pump piece by piece would far surpass the cost of a new heat pump.  Therefore, it makes sense to consider replacing the heat pump with a new model as it gets older.  If the heat pump is more than 12 years old and incurs repair costs over $500, it might be most cost-effective to replace it.  This is especially true if you plan to live in the home long-term.  If you plan to move, making minimal repairs to get you by might work. Keep in mind that often one major repair is an indication that the heat pump’s best days are behind it and more repairs might follow.

If you do choose to replace a heat pump that is 10-20 years old, you’ll also enjoy savings on your utility bills.  Today’s heat pumps are far more efficient than a generation ago. It’s common now to replace a heat pump with one that is twice as efficient, reducing energy use (and impact on the environment) by 50%.

When looking for a replacement heat pump, be sure to read our heat pump reviews, or our HVAC reviews if you plan to replace the entire split system.  Have the new equipment installed by a qualified contractor to ensure top performance and longevity.  Heat pumps and HVAC systems require proper installation and accurate setup in guarantee high efficiency and durability.  In the meantime, these common heat pump repairs will help you make good decisions related to your HVAC system.

A common question for those considering a new HVAC system is, “How much do heat pumps cost?” In this heat pump guide, we address heat pump costs for different efficiency levels, providing sample pricing of specific models.  The primary factors involved in the cost of a heat pump are:

Capacity: Heating is listed in Btu’s; cooling is listed in tons.  One ton is equal to 12,000 Btu’s.

Efficiency: Heating efficiency is listed in HSPF, or Heating Seasonal Performance Factor; cooling efficiency is listed in SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating.  The higher the numbers, the more efficient the model is.

Features: Heat pumps with 2-stage operation, enhanced performance capabilities, and dual fuel design will cost more.

Standard Efficiency Heat Pump Prices

We group heat pumps with 13-15 SEER ratings in this categories.  The HSPF varies from 7.5 to over 9.0 in this range.  These heat pumps are popular choices in mild climate without temperature extremes.  Because of their low SEER and low cost, they are also used in northern climates where an alternate form of heat is also used, and they are a good choice where a short-term and inexpensive heat pump solution is needed.

Standard efficiency heat pump costs: $1,200-$2,500

3 ton Coleman LX Series Model THJF 14.5 SEER heat pump: $1,479

3 ton Dave Lennox Merit Series 13HPX heat pump: $1,699

3 ton Bryant Preferred Series model 223A 15 SEER heat pump: $2,279

High Efficiency Heat Pump Prices

In this group we place 16 SEER to 18 SEER heat pumps, with HSPF ratings from 8.5 to 9.2.  These are some of the best-selling heat pumps because they are versatile as well as being efficient without costing as much as very high efficiency models. They are popular in all climate zones, though only dual fuel heat pumps are suitable for areas with very cold winter weather.

High efficiency heat pump costs: $2,200 - $3,800

3 ton Goodman DSZC18 dual fuel heat pump: $2,599

3 ton Heil Model 9.5 HSPF 17 SEER DXT+ heat pump: $2,789

3 ton American Standard Platinum XM Heritage 16: $3,419

Very High Efficiency Heat Pumps

These are typically top of the line heat pumps with performance features that may include communicating technology (Carrier Infinity, Trane XLi, American Standard Platinum, Dave Lennox Signature, Bryant Evolution).  All of them have 2-stage compressors and most have advanced humidity control features.  The SEER ratings for these are 19 SEER or higher, with HSPF ratings up to 10.0.

Very high efficiency heat pump costs: $2,800-$4,500

3 ton Trane XL20i Heat Pump: $3,599

3 ton Carrier Infinity Series Model 25HNA9 Heat Pump: $3,659

3 ton Maytag Model M1200 -- 22 SEER Heat Pump: $3,879

Summary

How much do heat pumps cost?  These figures will help you know what to expect when you get written estimates from local HVAC companies.  Our examples are all 3 ton units to make it easier to compare them.  The price ranges we gave cover all sizes, from 1.5 ton to 5.0 ton models.  For more specific heat pump prices, see the heat pump reviews included on this site.

Choosing the top ten heat pumps available today is no easy task.  The best heat pumps can be approached from several different ways.  What we’ve done in this heat pump guide is to select the 10 best heat pumps in terms of quality and long-term performance. These are not the 10 most efficient heat pumps on the market necessarily, though several of them are right near the top.

The reason we don’t go with the 10 most efficient heat pumps is because not every homeowner wants the most efficient model.  Why?  The more efficient a heat pump is, the more it costs.  A 20 SEER/10.0 HSPF heat pump can be 35% more expensive than a 15 SEER/8.2 HSPF heat pump.  In a mild climate without hot or cold extremes, it might take 7+ years to recoup the cost difference through lower energy bills.

In very warm climates, choosing a high-efficiency heat pump is the best choice.  In cold climates, a better option is an efficient heat pump that is dual fuel compatible. This means it can be used in a split system with a gas furnace.  As noted, in mild coastal or mountainous climates, a less efficient heat pump will prove to be the most cost-effective way to go.

So, we present the top ten heat pumps for the quality and performance they deliver.  We do list them in order of their SEER so that you can more easily find models that fit your need for efficiency.  Here are the ten best heat pumps based on consumer HVAC reviews, our own research, the performance they offer, and the brand’s service record for quality.

1. Maytag model M1200 – 22 SEER Heat Pump: 22 SEER, 10.0 HSPF. This is an innovative heat pump using award-winning technology to lower energy consumption and reduce utility bills.  The key to its efficiency is a rotary compressor that delivers between 40% and 100% capacity.  It only heats or cools to the level required to keep your home comfortable with precisely balanced temperatures. Also known as the Maytag PSH4BI iQ Drive heat pump. It has a 12-year parts warranty that is one of the best.

2. Dave Lennox Signature Collection XP21 Heat Pump: 19.5 SEER, 9.5 HSPF. Lennox is an industry leader in efficiency and innovation. The Lennox XP21 is a dual fuel model and a great choice for climates with weather extremes in summer and winter.

3. Carrier Infinity Series Model 25HNA9 Heat Pump: 19 SEER, 9.5 HSPF heating. This is another dual fuel model.  It will lower your energy use in all seasons while supporting a greener approach to heating and cooling.  The Carrier Infinity thermostat is widely regarded as the best there is. Staged heating and cooling is its top performance feature.

4. Trane XL20i Heat Pump: 19 SEER, 9.0 HSPF. Trane has one of the best service records in the industry.  This 2-stage heat pump is efficient and will make your home very comfortable.  The ATM module allows you to program it using a smart phone.  That’s the best way to lower your energy bills – turning the system down while you’re away and contacting it on your way home to bring your house back to the required temperature.

5. Coleman Echelon Series Model HC8B 18 SEER Heat Pump: 18 SEER, 10.0 HSPF.  The heating efficiency is outstanding for an 18 SEER model and makes it a cost-conscious and efficient choice for a wider range of climates.  Coleman has improved the quality of its HVAC equipment in the last decade and is now very competitive as well as being affordable.

6.  Goodman 18 SEER R-410A Refrigerant — DSZC18 Heat Pump: 18 SEER, 9.2 HSPF. Goodman makes a quality product that is also very affordable.  This one uses the 2-stage Copeland UltraTech compressor, the highest-quality compressor on the market.  In addition, Goodman shows their confidence in this model by offering a lifetime limited warranty on the compressor that provides for the replacement of the condensing unit.  That’s unsurpassed in the industry.

7. Heil Model 9.5 HSPF 17 SEER Heat Pump: 17 SEER, 9.5 HSPF.  This is Heil’s best heat pump and is stocked with performance features such as 2-stage heating and cooling and advanced humidity control.  You’ll also see this model listed as the Heil QuietComfort DXT+ Two-stage heat pump.

8. Rheem model RPRL-JEC Heat Pump: 16 SEER, 9.5 HSPF.  This quality heat pump features 2-stage comfort and outstanding reliability. Rheem uses quality components and materials throughout this model.

9. Amana SSZ16 Distinctions Heat Pump: 16 SEER, 9.5 HSPF. This model also uses the Copeland UltraTech compressor and offers 2-stage heating and air conditioning comfort.  It’s an affordable, reasonably efficient heat pump of the highest quality. It carries a lifetime unit replacement warranty on the compressor and a 10-year parts warranty.

10. Ruud model UPQL-AZ Heat Pump: 15 SEER, 10.45 HSPF.  As you can see, the heating efficiency of 10.45 HSPF is one of the best in the industry.  This unit is built for moderate climates with chilly winters. It is equipped with Copeland’s best single-stage compressor which also does very well in HVAC reviews.

Summary

These are all Energy Star qualified heat pumps.  Each of them also uses environmentally safer R-410A refrigerant or a brand-name version of it.  They are energy-efficient and should provide 15-20 years of reliable service, possibly more when installed by a qualified contractor and properly maintained.  There are quality models at each efficiency level so that you can find the right balance of equipment cost and operating costs in our top ten heat pumps list.

The Green Guide To Heat Pumps 2011 is designed to inform you about green technology in the HVAC industry.  You’ll find information about choosing an environmentally friendly heat pump as well getting the most energy-efficient service from it.  Many of you are motivated to do your part and this heat pump guide will help.  We list practical steps you can take and we give 3 examples of heat pumps that will reduce your home’s dependence on fossil fuels and reduce your carbon footprint.

Our goal at WebHVAC is to inform you about HVAC equipment that meets your needs for heating and cooling.  We think this guide will help you select a heat pump that fits the green lifestyle that is important to you.

Green Heat Pumps as Part of a Greener Lifestyle

These tips will help you choose an energy-efficient heat pump as well as make other choices that will reduce your energy dependency and greenhouse gas emissions.

1. Choose a Heat Pump Well Beyond Energy Star Minimums: To qualify as an Energy Star product, the heat pump must have an energy-efficiency rating of 14.5 SEER and 8.2 HSPF.  SEER is the seasonal energy efficiency rating and measures air conditioning efficiency.  HSPF is the heating seasonal performance factor and measures the heating efficiency of the heat pump.  These minimum requirement will likely go up in the next few years because they are not very high.  Most top manufacturers make heat pumps in the 18+ SEER range and HSPF ratings of 10.0 and higher. Choose the most efficient heat pump available that fits your budget.

2. Have your Heat Pump Professionally Installed: Heat pumps require professional installation to ensure they will run at maximum efficiency.  Hire a qualified contractor to install your new, energy-efficient heat pump and you’ll have the peace of mind you’re doing all you can to heat and cool more responsibly.

3. Improve the Insulation Factor of your Home: This can be done by adding insulation to the attic, putting weather stripping on doors and windows, replacing old windows, and more.  Take the steps that fit your budget.  A home that is well-insulated will reduce how hard your heat pump has to work and will also cut down on greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Keep your Heat Pump Maintained: A heat pump with dirty coils will lose as much as 15% to 33% of its efficiency.  That’s the equivalent of a 15 SEER heat pump running at 10 to 13 SEER efficiency.  It will help to have a qualified HVAC contractor clean the entire system, including both coils, about once a year.  In between, you can keep the outdoor coil clean by hosing it off periodically during the cooling season.

5. Use a Programmable Thermostat to Reduce Energy Use: Having an efficient heat pump is an important step.  But even if your home currently has a less-efficient model, you can improve your energy efficiency by turning the system down while the house is empty or when everyone is asleep.  A programmable thermostat makes it easy to do and the house can still be comfortable when people arrive home or get up in the morning.

Examples of Heat Pumps with Green Technology

These 3 heat pumps will allow you to conserve energy use and reduce your carbon footprint.  In our heat pump reviews you will find comparable models but these are some of the best and they give you a good idea of what's currently available.

Infinity Series Heat Pump With Greenspeed Intelligence

This heat pump is green in more than just name alone.  It offers a very efficient 20.5 SEER air conditioning and a very impressive 13 HSPF heating efficiency, the highest we’ve seen currently available.  This unit will reduce your energy use when heating or cooling by more than 50% in most homes when it replaces a heat pump even 12-15 years old.  Heat pumps have traditionally not been a good choice in cooler climates where their efficiency suffers, but this Carrier Infinity heat pump is changing that.

American Standard Platinum ZM Heritage 20 Heat Pump

American Standard is one of the most respected names in the HVAC industry and they consistently demonstrate a commitment to the development of green technology.  This heat pump offers 19.0 SEER cooling and 9.0 HSPF heating, both very solid. You’ll have a comfortable home, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and keep your utility bills under control.

Heil Model 9.5 HSPF 17 SEER Heat Pump

This is a very green heat pump for those who want to be more energy-efficient but have a limited budget.  The 17 SEER and 9.5 HSPF are very attractive to those who want to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.  And this is a very affordable high-efficiency heat pump too.  It’s a good value, lowering equipment costs and utility bills while being easier on the environment.

Summary

All of these heat pumps use new generation R-410A refrigerant.  Carrier calls it Puron but that is simply there brand name for it.  This new refrigerant does not contain chlorine, a substance known to deplete ozone in the earth’s upper atmosphere.  While not the “perfect” refrigerant, it is more efficient than older types and definitely more environmentally responsible.

If you live in a cooler climate, you may also want to check out dual fuel heat pumps.  They can be combined in a split system that includes a gas furnace.  This allows you to use the energy-efficient heat pump in cool weather and the gas furnace when temperatures get too low for heat pumps to be effective.  The Bryant Preferred Series model 223A 15 SEER Heat Pump is a good example of a relatively-green and affordable model.  The Lennox Signature Collection heat pumps are more expensive dual fuel models but also more efficient.  See more information in our HVAC reviews of dual fuel heat pumps.

Put the practical steps listed above into action and you’ll cut your energy use significantly. Find the energy-efficient heat pump that is right for you and have it installed as part of a lifestyle of greener choices.