For homeowners seeking energy efficiency, innovative technology, and an all-in-one heating and cooling solution, heat pumps are increasingly becoming a popular choice. And just like any home appliance, modern heat pumps offer a variety of functions, features, and benefits. What features matter most? What determines energy savings? How does sizing work?
Below, let’s break down a few crucial considerations for choosing the right heat pump in Edmonton. Read on!
Proper Sizing
Just as with any HVAC system, your heat pump requires proper sizing to avoid inefficiencies. An oversized unit may short-cycle and wasted energy. On the other hand, a unit that is too small may run nonstop without ever catching up. It’s also important to keep in mind that heat pump sizing differs from furnace sizing, since these systems are also responsible for cooling in the summer.
While online tools can be handy as a starting point, they don’t tell the whole story. Factors such as home construction type, insulation, and window placement all feed into the right size for your space. It’s always best to consult a professional HVAC technician who specializes in heat pumps.
Compressor Type
At the centre of every heat pump is the compressor. Think of it as the heart of the heat pump system that’s responsible for facilitating the actual transfer of heat. It’s the central meeting point, which pressurizes and distributes refrigerant throughout the system. The compressor heavily impacts energy efficiency, and should be carefully considered before choosing a heat pump.
Heat pumps in Edmonton come in three main compressor types:
- Single-Stage: Can only turn off and on
- Two-Stage: Comes with low and high settings
- Variable Speed: Dynamic adjustment based on demand
For an Edmonton winter, a variable-speed compressor is a strong choice. It runs at a low, steady output on milder days and ramps up only when a cold snap demands it.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
As heat pumps find their way into more homes than ever, these systems continue to define what energy efficiency really means. Rather than using less heat, heat pumps transfer the heat already in the air to where it’s most needed.
As a result, heat pumps come with two key ratings that tell how efficiently you can expect them to perform: SEER and HSPF.
- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): This rating measures cooling efficiency over a full season. A higher SEER means the unit pulls less electricity to cool your home through the summer.
- Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF): This rating measures heating efficiency over a full season. It’s the heating-side counterpart to SEER, and a key number to consider if researching models.
Popular Heat Pumps for Homes
When choosing a heat pump in Edmonton, you’ll lastly want to choose from a reputable brand. While there’s no such thing as the absolute best heat pump on the market, choosing a reputable brand means smoother servicing, repairs, and an overall better experience.
At Weiss-Johnson, we only work with established brands, including:
Within these brands, we offer a wide range of heat pumps, making it easy to find the right fit for your home. From the Daikin Fit Heat Pump to the Resolute Cold Climate Heat Pump, these heat pumps provide reliable heating and cooling year-round.
Heat Pumps in Edmonton You Can Rely On
At Weiss-Johnson, our expertise on heat pumps goes beyond installation. We bring both technical leadership and real-life industry experience to the table. If you’re in the market for a heat pump for your Edmonton home, let’s chat.
Request a free estimate from our team and learn more about finding the right heating and cooling solution for your home.
