Is your heat pump having a hard time keeping up with the summer heat? Are you calling the service technician a bit too often? If so, it might be time to consider a new heat pump.

Modern heat pumps aren’t like the heat pumps of yesteryear. Here’s what you need to know before buying a new heat pump for your Lafayette, LA home.

Efficiency Ratings

Two numbers express the efficiency of a heat pump. The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating measures the cooling efficiency. The HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) rates heating efficiency. A higher rating indicates greater efficiency. For the Lafayette area, federal standards require a minimum SEER of 14. Most residential units require a minimum HSPF of 8.0. ENERGY STAR requirements are 15 SEER and 8.5 HSPF.

Advanced Features

Newer heat pumps include features that improve your family’s comfort and your HVAC efficiency. Two of these innovations are a variable speed motor and 2-stage compressor.

Conventional HVAC systems operate on two settings: full blast or off. Variable speed motors and 2-stage compressors operate on different settings, automatically adjusting to meet the energy demand. When it’s extremely hot or cold, they run at full capacity. When the temperatures moderate, they power down to lower capacity, using less energy and saving you money while keeping you comfortable.

Energy-efficient Thermostats

Thermostats have come a long way, too, over the past several years. Programmable thermostats provide greater comfort and energy savings through zoned heating and cooling. Wi-Fi capability enables you to control your comfort from any tablet, computer, or smartphone.

Heat pumps are increasingly popular among Lafayette, LA homeowners because of their efficient heating and cooling. But technological advancements aren’t useful if you don’t get a professional heat pump installation. If you think it’s time for a new heat pump, check out the heat pump installation services we offer at Fontenot’s Cooling & Heating or call (337) 706-9469.