Be sure to understand some basics of heat pumps before you make that all-important purchase!

HSPF: The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor is a measure of the heating efficiency of a heat pump. The higher the HSPF number, the more efficiently the heat pump heats your home.

SEER: SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the measure of efficiency by which the cooling process of air conditioners and heat pumps is rated. The higher the SEER rating, the greater the efficiency – and therefore greater potential energy savings.

Refrigerant: R-410a (also known as Puron) is an environmentally-sound refrigerant designed to not harm the earth’s ozone layer. Federal law requires that all manufacturers phase out R-22 (better known as Freon) and other ozone-depleting refrigerants in the next few years. R-410a refrigerant is approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency as a replacement for R-22.

Standard Blower: A standard blower delivers a specified amount of air flow based on a tap setting.

Variable-Speed Blower: A high efficiency blower that is designed to deliver a varying amount of air flow based on the desired outcome. This type of blower increases the effectiveness of humidification, dehumidification, air filtration and balance of air flow.

Humidification: This is the process of adding moisture to the air by using a whole house humidifier. During the winter months, heated air can make your house too dry. Adding moisture protects your furnishings and reduces static electricity. Coupling a humidifier to a variable-speed blower gives you the ability to manage your humidity to the exact level you would like.

Dehumidification Mode: The process of varying air flow and compressor operation can allow certain air conditioning applications to manage exact indoor humidity levels.

Electric Heat Staging: The ability to bring the electric back-up heat in stages as opposed to coming on all at once. This is less costly than bringing the electric back-up heat on all at once.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): This refers to the cleanliness and healthiness of the air in your home. Many factors affect air quality: smoking, pets, location of the property, age of the home, tightness of the house, etc. Perhaps the biggest enemies of indoor air quality are allergens – microscopic particulate matter, bioaerosols and volatile organic compounds that can produce allergic reactions, impede breathing or make you sick. Dust, pollen, germs, mold, and chemicals – all can be in the air. The wrong heating system can house, spread and recirculate these allergens. Clickhere for more information.