Choosing the Right Air Source Heat Pump for Your Home

Air source heat pumps are a popular and energy-efficient way to heat and cool homes, but choosing the right system for your needs can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, including the size of your home, your climate, and your budget. In this article, we'll discuss some key considerations to help you choose the right air source heat pump for your home.

1. Determine the Heating Load of Your Home

The first step in choosing an air source heat pump is to determine the heating load of your home. The heating load is the amount of heat required to keep your home at a comfortable temperature during the coldest days of the year. It's calculated based on factors such as the size of your home, the amount of insulation, the number and size of windows, and your climate.

To determine your heating load, you can use an online calculator or consult with Cool Energy. Once you know your heating load, you can choose a heat pump that has the right capacity to meet your heating needs.

2. Consider the Climate in Your Area

Air source heat pumps are most efficient in moderate climates, where the outdoor temperature doesn't dip below freezing too often. In colder climates, the heat pump may not be able to provide enough heat on its own and may require supplemental heat from another source.

If you live in a cold climate, you'll need to choose a heat pump that can handle the coldest temperatures in your area. Look for a heat pump with a high heating capacity and a low-temperature rating, which indicates how well the system can perform in cold weather.

3. Look for a High Efficiency Rating

Air source heat pumps are rated by their coefficient of performance (COP), which is a measure of how efficiently the system can move heat. The higher the COP, the more efficient the system.

Look for a heat pump with a high COP to ensure you get the most energy savings possible. Keep in mind that the COP can vary depending on the outdoor temperature, so it's important to choose a heat pump that is rated for the climate in your area.

4. Choose the Right Size

Choosing the right size heat pump is critical to ensuring efficient and effective heating. A heat pump that is too small will struggle to keep your home warm, while a heat pump that is too large will waste energy and may have a shorter lifespan.

To choose the right size heat pump, consider the heating load of your home, as well as factors such as the layout of your home and the number of occupants. Cool Energy can help you determine the right size for your needs.

5. Consider Noise Levels

The outdoor unit of an air source heat pump can be quite noisy, particularly if it's located near a bedroom or other quiet area. Look for a heat pump with a low decibel rating to ensure it won't disturb your daily life.

You can also consider locating the outdoor unit in a less visible or less noisy area, such as behind a fence or in a corner of your property.

6. Look for a Reputable Installer

Finally, it's important to choose a reputable installer to ensure your heat pump is installed correctly and operates safely and efficiently. Look for an installer who is licensed, insured, and experienced in installing air source heat pumps.

Ask for references or you can use our approved installer list to help you decide.