ph
ph

SEER And HSPF: Why Are They So Important?

When you're selecting a new heat pump, the two critical factors to consider are the SEER and HSPF, the ratings that the Department of Energy requires to inform consumers of a unit's energy efficiency.

seer and hspf ratings for heat pumps, Boston, Massachusetts

SEER is short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, while HSPF stands for heating seasonal performance factor. And these two acronyms will make a big difference in your electric bills, as higher ratings indicate better efficiency. Our region has many more heating degree days than cooling days, which means of the two ratings, the HSPF is more important than the SEER, whose minimum is 13. The lowest allowable HSPF is 7.7, but upgrades can bring the rating to as high as 10.

Heat pumps do not require fuel, but do use electricity for cooling and heating. These appliances are among the most energy efficient systems for cooling your home in the summer, and for heating it in the winter when temperatures are above the mid 30s. Since they rely on air temperatures (or ground temperatures in the case of ground-source systems) for heating in the winter, both the source the heat pump uses for heating and the kind of compressor it uses make a difference in the SEER and HSPF ratings.

Geothermal heat pumps may have higher ratings for both SEER and HSPF because they tap into underground temperatures that are stable throughout the year to disperse heat out of the home in the summer and bring it into the home in the winter. Geothermal systems can provide consistent heat throughout our winters regardless of outdoor air temperatures.

An air-source heat pump can produce warmer temperatures if it has a scroll compressor that is capable of warming the refrigerant 10 to 15 degrees more than a piston compressor. As a result, a system that utilizes a scroll compressor raises the efficiency rating of a heat pump.

If you would like more information about the meaning and implications of the SEER and HSPF ratings, please contact Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We've provided HVAC services for the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts for over 80 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Solutions Guide.

Image via Shutterstock.com

Nice people.

Great service.

Since 1928

Contact Rodenhiser

By submitting, you authorize Rodenhiser to contact you via phone, email or text to gather project information including any future ongoing communication. The personal information entered above will never be shared with any third party for marketing purposes. You may opt out of this communication at any time. By submitting this form you are not obligated to purchase. Message/data rates apply.
Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy

Read From Over 10000 Happy Customers

  • Both Alex and Patrick were knowledgeable, courteous, and professional. They made a change that might have solved the recent problem and have structured a more complete solution. We agreed to this...
    5 Stars rated.

  • Mike was thorough, thoughtful and considerate. Covered their shoes before entering, surveyed my issue and provided an explanation of the services and costs. Great Job!
    5 Stars rated.

  • Alex did a great job providing an explanation of the services provided and went out of his way to offer assistance/advice on other issues outside of our scheduled maintenance visit.
    5 Stars rated.

  • Brian did an excellent job inspecting our 18-year old boiler and replacing some of the accessory hardware that needed it, he also adjusted the outgoing hot water settings for our radiators and...
    5 Stars rated.

  • Rodenhiser is my one stop shop!!! They take care of my HVAC, electrical, and plumbing issues & are always helpful addressing any questions I may have about the systems in my house! Everyone...
    5 Stars rated.

  • Chris G. and Nick V. showed up bright and early at 8am to fix my water heater issue. They were on time, polite and were able to fix an issue that has been plaguing my house for a good year. They...
    5 Stars rated.

You Can Depend On Rodenhiser

Call Rodenhiser at
1-800-462-9710

You Can Depend On Rodenhiser

Call Rodenhiser at 1-800-462-9710

When you are looking for plumbing, electrical, heating or air conditioning in the Route 495 / 128 area, you will be delighted that you called Massachusetts' trusted choice since 1928.

With a total dedication to professional workmanship and excellent service, discover why families and businesses continue to trust Rodenhiser after generations of service

Same Day Service
"Nice people... Great service"®

Trusted Plumbers

When you choose Rodenhiser your satisfaction is guaranteed—all the work will be completed to your satisfaction

Fast, On Time

Our teams are available for emergencies. At your location FAST.

HVAC Experts

Your new heating or air conditioning system will be installed on-time by our clearn, tidy, and polite technicians.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

It’s the ultimate assurance of the great service you receive when you call Rodenhiser.

Expert Electricians

Rodenhiser can help with all of your electrical needs, from electrical panels to standby generators.

Maintenance Plans

Avoid costly plumbing, heating, A/C and electrical problems and repairs by scheduling regular check-ups and service.

Special Financing with Rodenhiser

APPLY ONLINE
for Financing Through Wells Fargo

MULTIPLE OPTIONS AVAILABLE.
*With Approved Credit. Terms and Conditions Apply.

CONTACT RODENHISER TODAY