Is The Heat Pump An Economical Or Expensive Way Of Heating And Cooling, And How Does It Operate?

A heat pump may actually provide more than three units of heat for each unit of electricity used. If a kilowatt-hour of heat is needed for comfort, it can be supplied by a one thousand-watt electric heater. To provide the same amount of heat the heat pump might use as little as 330 watts in an hour. This is a ratio of three to one. The ratio is referred to as the Coefficient of Performance (COP). Electric resistance heaters have a COP of 1 because they are using electricity to create heat. A heat pump moves heat from the outside to the inside of the home and vice versa, not using energy to create heat. We recommend. a COP of at least 1.8 at standard test conditions of 17° F dry bulb and 15° F wet bulb.

I am sure that explanation was as clear as mud. Let's look at it this way. Gas and fuel oil prices are going through the roof. It looks like the heat pump is becoming a better option.

Can I Move The Thermostat On My Heat Pump Up And Down Like Other Heating Systems?

During the heating season, we recommend a setting that is comfortable for your household. Once your thermostat is set, the best policy is to leave it alone. Raising the thermostat as little as 2 ° F may cause the supplementary heat to come on, thereby increasing your energy usage. Although night setback is recommended during the winter for most types of heating systems, to save energy and reduce costs, it is not generally recommended for a heat pump unless a programmable thermostat designed expressly for a heat pump is used. When you have a heat pump, and raise the house temperature in the morning, the supplementary heat may come on using more electricity than you save during the night. Reduce the thermostat temperature setting for weekend trips or vacations during the heating season.

Why Should I Invest In A 13 SEER Or Higher Unit?

     There are 13 reasons why you should purchase a heat pump/air conditioner carrying a 13 SEER rating or higher:

1. 13 SEER or higher units are 20% to 50% more efficient than 10 SEER units, saving you energy dollars through every season of the year.
2. They are much quieter than 10 SEER units, which makes your home a more pleasant place to live.
3. They have a 5 to 10 year compressor warranty and up to five years full parts, labor, materials and freon warranty, which ensures that the costs to run this unit are low. (Ask your contractor for details)
4. They are built better and have a much nicer fit and finish.
5. 13 SEER or higher units are fitted with much better controls and protective devices to protect the unit if a problem occurs (bad power, refrigerant loss, etc.)
6. 13 SEER or higher units have a new high tech scroll compressor which is extremely reliable and provides warmer feeling heat.
7. They have a 5 minute time-delay to keep heat from turning on and off during storms, or if someone is tampering with the thermostat.
8. They have commercial grade service valves to keep service costs down and equipment life high.
9. They have compressor sound and fan insulation systems that are attractive and significantly reduce the sound of the outdoor unit.
10. They have a much better blower than the standard system which enhances performance and comfort.
11. They have an expansion valve that adjusts the refrigerant flow which allows the unit to provide a higher level of comfort and better humidity control.
12. 13 SEER or higher units have an accumulator which catches extra refrigerant and helps protect the compressor.
13. And lastly, the Department of Energy says so!!  Oh yeah!  In January 2006, the DOE is raised the minimum cooling efficiency on residential air conditioners and heat pumps to 13 SEER from its older minimum of 10 SEER.   Questions? 

Is The Heat Pump An Economical Or Expensive Way Of Heating And Cooling, And How Does It Operate?

A heat pump may actually provide more than three units of heat for each unit of electricity used. If a kilowatt-hour of heat is needed for comfort, it can be supplied by a one thousand-watt electric heater. To provide the same amount of heat the heat pump might use as little as 330 watts in an hour. This is a ratio of three to one. The ratio is referred to as the Coefficient of Performance (COP). Electric resistance heaters have a COP of 1 because they are using electricity to create heat. A heat pump moves heat from the outside to the inside of the home and vice versa, not using energy to create heat. We recommend. a COP of at least 1.8 at standard test conditions of 17 ° F dry bulb and 15 ° F wet bulb.

I am sure that explanation was as clear as mud. Let's look at it this way. Gas and fuel oil prices are going through the roof. It looks like the heat pump is becoming a better option.

What Type of Heat Pump is Best?

One that is installed by Howell's of course! No, seriously, the efficiency of the heat pump when used as an air conditioner is known as the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). In January of 2006 the Department of Energy enforced the increase to a 13 SEER minimum standard for all heat pump and air conditioner production. A fair method of comparing the heat pump to other heating systems is to use the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The HSPF compares relative equipment efficiencies. A HSPF of 6.8 or higher is recommended.

Can I Move the Thermostat on My Heat Pump Up and Down Like Other Heating Systems?

During the heating season, we recommend a setting that is comfortable for your household. Once your thermostat is set, the best policy is to leave it alone. Raising the thermostat as little as 2 ° F may cause the supplementary heat to come on, thereby increasing your energy usage. Although night setback is recommended during the winter for most types of heating systems, to save energy and reduce costs, it is not generally recommended for a heat pump unless a programmable thermostat designed expressly for a heat pump is used. When you have a heat pump, and raise the house temperature in the morning, the supplementary heat may come on using more electricity than you save during the night. Reduce the thermostat temperature setting for weekend trips or vacations during the heating season.

Why Should I Invest in a 13 SEER or Higher Unit?

There are 13 reasons why you should purchase a heat pump/air conditioner carrying a 13 SEER rating or higher:

1. 13 SEER or higher units are 20% to 50% more efficient than 10 SEER units, saving you energy dollars through every season of the year. 
2. They are much quieter than 10 SEER units, which makes your home a more pleasant place to live. 
3. They have a 5 to 10 year compressor warranty and up to five years full parts, labor, materials and freon warranty, which ensures that the costs to run this unit are low. (Ask your contractor for details)
4. They are built better and have a much nicer fit and finish. 
5. 13 SEER or higher units are fitted with much better controls and protective devices to protect the unit if a problem occurs (bad power, refrigerant loss, etc.) 
6. 13 SEER or higher units have a new high tech scroll compressor which is extremely reliable and provides warmer feeling heat. 
7. They have a 5 minute time-delay to keep heat from turning on and off during storms, or if someone is tampering with the thermostat. 
8. They have commercial grade service valves to keep service costs down and equipment life high.
9. They have compressor sound and fan insulation systems that are attractive and significantly reduce the sound of the outdoor unit. 
10. They have a much better blower than the standard system which enhances performance and comfort. 
11. They have an expansion valve that adjusts the refrigerant flow which allows the unit to provide a higher level of comfort and better humidity control. 
12. 13 SEER or higher units have an accumulator which catches extra refrigerant and helps protect the compressor. 
13. And lastly, the Department of Energy says so!! Oh yeah! In January 2006, the DOE is raised the minimum cooling efficiency on residential air conditioners and heat pumps to 13 SEER from its older minimum of 10 SEER. Questions? Ask a Sales Consultant.

Is The Heat Pump An Economical Or Expensive Way Of Heating And Cooling, And How Does It Operate?

A heat pump may actually provide more than three units of heat for each unit of electricity used. If a kilowatt-hour of heat is needed for comfort, it can be supplied by a one thousand-watt electric heater. To provide the same amount of heat the heat pump might use as little as 330 watts in an hour. This is a ratio of three to one. The ratio is referred to as the Coefficient of Performance (COP). Electric resistance heaters have a COP of 1 because they are using electricity to create heat. A heat pump moves heat from the outside to the inside of the home and vice versa, not using energy to create heat. We recommend. a COP of at least 1.8 at standard test conditions of 17 ° F dry bulb and 15 ° F wet bulb.

I am sure that explanation was as clear as mud. Let's look at it this way. Gas and fuel oil prices are going through the roof. It looks like the heat pump is becoming a better option.

FAQ: Is the Heat Pump an Economical or Expensive Way of Heating & Cooling? And How Does It Operate?

A heat pump may actually provide more than three units of heat for each unit of electricity used.

For example: 
If a kilowatt-hour of heat is needed for comfort, it can be supplied by a one thousand-watt electric heater. To provide the same amount of heat, the heat pump might use as little as 330 watts in an hour.

This is a ratio of three to one. The ratio is referred to as the Coefficient of Performance (COP). Electric resistance heaters have a COP of 1 because they are using electricity to create heat. A heat pump moves heat from the outside to the inside of the home and vice versa, not using energy to create heat. We recommend a COP of at least 1.8 at standard test conditions of 17 ° F dry bulb and 15 ° F wet bulb.

We're sure that explanation was as clear as mud. Let's look at it this way. Gas and fuel oil prices are going through the roof. It looks like the heat pump is becoming a better option.

Product Feature: GT-PG Geothermal Heat Pump

High-Efficiency Geothermal Unit for Excellent Performance

Carrier’s GT-PG series offers exceptional quality and high performance. A single-stage scroll compressor, combined with Puron® refrigerant, optional variable-speed motor, tin plated coil, microprocessor control and quiet operation make this a great choice. Available in vertical top flow, vertical bottom flow and horizontal flow, all with optional hot-water generator. In sizes from 1½ through 6 tons.

Models: 50YEV, 50YEH, 50YED

• Puron® Refrigerant
• Up to 20.2 EER, 4.2 COP (closed loop)
• Up to 27.4 EER, 5.1 COP (open loop)
• Superior humidity and temperature control
• Single-stage scroll compressor for reliable performance
• Choice of variable-speed or single-speed blower
• Insulated cabinet for quiet operation
• Tin plated air coil for long life
• CXM Unit Performance Sentinel™ Control Board for precision operation
• 10-year limited warranty
• Available in vertical top discharge, bottom discharge and horizontal 

Product Feature: York Affinity 8T Series 18 SEER High-Efficiency Heat Pump

The Affinity Series is the premier York line of residential heat pumps. The Affinity Series is the only unit on the market to offer a choice of seven designer colors.

Great Efficiency. Great Value.

• 60% more efficient and four-times as quiet using high-tech compressor
• 7 designer colors to complement your home's exterior
• 70+ collegiate panel options
• System protection from Comfort Alert™ compressor monitor
• Outstanding efficiency ratings of up to 18 SEER/9.4 HSPF
• Warm to touch air from "Hot Heat Pump" technology
• Quieter heating and cooling with QuietDrive™ fan system

Warranties

York backs every Affinity™ heat pump with one of the best limited warranties you’ll find: Every Affinity™ heat pump is backed with a 10-year parts* warranty and a 10-year compressor warranty.

Our optional YorkCare™ comfort plan offers up to 10 years of total parts and labor coverage. And, if you purchase our Affinity™ 5T or 8T model with a factory matched Affinity™ gas furnace, coil, and/or air handler, you'll receive our Total Package Warranty program: A 10-year limited parts warranty and a lifetime compressor warranty.

*Must be installed after May 1, 2009, and registered online within 90 days of installation—otherwise the parts warranty reverts to a 5-year limited parts warranty.

Energy Guide
This model is rated 18.0 SEER. The EnerGuide label gives you important information when you shop for a new appliance, including estimated energy consumption.

ENERGY STAR

Earning the ENERGY STAR means products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. When compared to standard models, ENERGY STAR products are between 15 and 25% more efficient. This model meets ENERGY STAR requirements for energy efficiency.

Good Housekeeping

For almost 100 years, the Good Housekeeping Seal has been a symbol of quality and trust. This model is proud to have earned the Good Housekeeping Seal.

NATE

York encourages professionalism through North American Technician Excellence, Inc.(NATE). NATE is the leading certification program for technicians in the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry, and is the only test supported by the entire industry.

Tips on How to Operate Your Heat Pump

Your heat pump does not operate like other heating systems. In the heating mode, the heat pump removes heat from outside and transfers it to the air inside. Inthe cooling mde, the heat pump removes heat from the inside air and discharges it to the outside ar. The heating and cooling modes are controlled automatically by the indor thermostat setting.

The coils in your heat pump operate at lower heat levels than fossil fuel (Gas or Propane) systems. Air at the supply registers usually has a temperature ranging from 85° to 110°F in the winter.

Even outside winter air contains some heat. As outside airtemperature drops, the unit runs more to collect and deliver the necessary heat inside your home. Hence, the heatpump moves less heat incold weather. The balance point of the heat pump occurs when at full capacity, it supplies all the heat your home requires. As outside temperature drops below the balance point, the supplemental heat (Electric resistene heat, gas or oil backup) is required to maintain your thermostat setting.

If your heat pump has supplementary electric resistance heaters located in the air distribution system (air handler or fan coil unit), just ask a Howell's technician how the heaters are controlled.

6 Very Easy Tips That Anyone Can Do

1. Dirt is the #1 cause of system failure. Getting the proper amount of airflow across the indoor and outdoor coils is very important. Check your return air filter(s) every month. If you are using a standard 1" disposable filter then listen up. First, if it is dirty, then change it immediately. But if it is clean, then you should throw it away and BUY A BETTER FILTER! Remember, dirt in a filter is a good thing. That means that the dirt is not in your system. If you filter is clean, then unless you live in a vacuum the dirt is slipping through the cheap filters.
2. Do not keep lamps near your thermostat. Light bulbs emit heat which is sensed by your thermostat, thus causing your thermostat to reach the set point temperature before the house has reached that temperature. Most digital, or programmable thermostats have a backlit display.
3. Do not close off more than one supply register at a time, closing off more will restrict airflow too much for efficient operation.
4. Keep return grilles free of blockage, such as pictures, sofas, or bookcases. Unrestricted airflow needs to flow back to the indoor unit.
5. If your indoor unit is in your attic or your crawl space, inspect your exposed ductwork. You will lose on average over 35% of your heat through little duct leaks. Most common areas to check - the run-outs or the flexible ducts coming off of the main duct trunk. If you are unsure what you are looking at, or suspect that you have leakage and are not sure how to fix it, give us a call or contact a Howells Technician.
6. Get on a routine maintenance schedule. Or,invest in your system's future with a maintenance contract, like our Energy Savings Plan Comfort Club Membership.

Your heating system is a very specialized and expensive appliance. These tips will help you, but in case of breakdown you should contact a qualified, NATE Certified company to perform the work. One last tip, yes you are getting 7 tips for the price of 6.

Bonus: If you do require a repair, and do not have a regular service company: when you call, ask if they provide FLAT RATE PRICING! This is your safety blanket. Flat rate pricing is a standardized price book on all HVAC repairs. The benefit to you is that if whether the repair takes 10 minutes or 5 hours, you are only paying one price. You are not paying the service tech by the hour to milk you. Good luck this winter.

FAQ: Should I Repair or Replace My Old Furnace, Air Conditioner or Heat Pump?

Our company is committed to the technical excellence of the service we provide you and, therefore, require our 'champion' technicians to attend regular training sessions. Besides the technician who actually does the repair, Howell's has highly competent and experienced field supervisors who, although you may never see, provide valuable backup to the technician. So, should a second opinion ever be required about a technical question, you don't have to worry because the technician has highly qualified expertise to bring to each call.

(But who cares? The technician isn't living in your house day in and day out, right? He just wants to move equipment!) Wrong! Take a look for yourself whether you should repair or replace that system that is still "working fine"

Should I Repair or Replace My Old Furnace, Air Conditioner or Heat Pump?

(This is an example of a 10-year-old furnace and air conditioner system. Based on current repair at the home and potential replacement cost today.)

REPAIR TODAY	EXAMPLE: Compare a repair on a 10-year-old "no heat" furnace/AC by putting in a new blower motor VS replacing the furnace with a new, high-efficiency system	REPLACE TODAY
What is the cost of today's repair, i.e., $350 for a replacement blower motor.	TODAY'S COST	Ballpark investment for a high-efficiency model furnace/AC, i.e., $6,700 (Avg. price)
What is your best guess on repairs over the next few years until the furnace/AC must be replaced? I.E., $350	FUTURE REPAIRS	NONE! Your 5 or 10 year bumper-to-bumper warranty covers all that risk.
ASHRAE data shows that the expected furnace life is 18 years, so we have 8 years to go at (your guess) $1,000 per year. 8 x $1,000 = $8,000. Typical Air Conditioner life expectancy is 15 years at an average electrical cost of $700 a year. 8 x $700 = $5,600	ENERGY COST TO OPERATE FOR 10 YEARS	The new, high-efficiency model will save 30-40% of their heating & cooling costs, so figure $600 per year for heating. 10 x $600 = $6,000. And $450 per year for cooling. 10 x $450 = $4,500
At some point the furnace/AC must be replaced so this is the ballpark investment for the high-efficiency model, at a minimum 2% increase annually. i.e., $7,851.	COST TO REPLACE THE UNIT IN 10 YEARS*	NONE! It works great and the customers are happy!
NONE! Actually, you will also have the inconvenience of at least one more failure!	ADDITIONAL COMFORT BENEFITS	LOTS! More comfortable due to proper sizing, better technology, quieter, less worry, better filtration, and more!
In this example, the numbers add up to: $22,151	TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP FOR 10 YEARS	In this example, the numbers add up to: $17,200
AMOUNT SAVED BY REPLACING TODAY $4,951

*To calculate the cost to replace the unit in the future:
(Today's Replacement Cost) + (Inflation [avg 2% yearly] for X Years) = $ Future Replacement Cost

That wasn't so bad, now was it? At least now you have a clear picture of what your system is doing for you. Now it is up to you. Let us know how we can best serve you in the future. For more information, answers, or to get a no-obligation FREE replacement quote, visit our website!

Product Feature: XL20i Heat Pumps from Trane

The Ultimate in Year-Round Comfort

Imagine 12 months of total and complete comfort – from the hottest days to the coldest nights. Well, you don’t have to, thanks to the XL20i system from Trane. It’s designed to perfectly cool your home in the summer and perfectly heat it in the winter.

Trane XL20i Features

When matched with a variable speed indoor unit from Trane, the XL20i has another special feature. It's a method of enhancing airflow that we call Comfort-R™ and it gives you greater humidity control in cooling. This is accomplished by running the fan at a slower speed during start-up. Comfort-R™ also provides warmer air during heating start-up. These managed cycles reduce temperature variances for the optimum in home comfort.

Efficient Performance

The XL20i is among the industry’s most efficient heat pumps available, with a rating up to 19.00 SEER and HSPF up to 9.0. The XL20i has two compressors: one for milder weather and a second larger compressor for those extremely hot days. It’s like having two units in one.

ComfortLink II Communicating Capability

ComfortLink II communicating technology (available when matched with communicating indoor units) connects all of your key components so your system automatically charges, configures and calibrates for optimal performance and efficiency through the lifetime of your products. When the optional Telephone Access Module (TAM) is added, you can conveniently adjust settings and receive system updates wherever you are by phone.

Economical Operation

Increased efficiency may substantially lower your home heating and cooling costs.

Quiet Comfort

Multi-stage fan motor adjusts speed to quietly provide maximum comfort.

Durable Construction

Materials for all components are tested again and again for long-lasting performance and durability.

Cleaner, Healthier Indoor Air

Add Trane CleanEffects™ to your system for advanced air filtration that removes more dust, pollen and other irritants from conditioned air for a cleaner, healthier, more comfortable home.

Trane XL20i Specifics

Every Trane Heat Pump is packed with high-quality components. Each helps ensure that time after time, your unit will provide total comfort your family can rely on. The XL20i includes:

• ComfortLink II Communicating Capability
• Charge Assist™ for enhanced performance and efficiency
• Dual Climatuff® Compressors
• Full-Side Louvered Panels
• WeatherGuard™ Top Protects Components
• R410A Refrigerant
• Baked-On Powder Paint
• Weather Resistant WeatherGuard™ Fasteners
• Two-row Spine Fin™ coil
• DuraTuff™ Rust Proof Base Pan
• Two-Stage Cooling and Heating
• Multi-stage Fan
• Low-Resistance Airflow
• Sound Insulator on Compressors

Trane XL20i Limited Warranty Details

Beginning May 1 2009, Registered Limited Warranty terms are available if the product is registered within 60 days of installation. Registration can be completed either online at Trane.com or by calling 800-554-6413. Trane’s Registered Limited Warranty terms include:

• 12 Year limited warranty on compressor
• 10 Year limited warranty on outdoor coil
• 10 Year limited warranty on internal functional parts
• The ten year Functional Parts Limited Warranty extends to the indoor gas furnace, coil, air handler and thermostat when installed as part of a complete XLi comfort system. An XLi comfort system includes an AHRI certified matching Trane outdoor XLi unit, indoor unit and thermostat installed at the same time.
• If the product is not registered within 60 days of installation Trane’s Base Limited Warranty terms will apply.
• Optional Extended Warranties available. Extended Warranties can pay for labor and other costs not covered by manufacturer's limited warranty.
• Ask your dealer for full warranty information at time of purchase. Warranties are for residential use only, some exclusions may apply.

Legal: Potential energy savings may vary depending on your personal lifestyle, system settings, equipment maintenance, local climate, actual construction and installation of equipment, and duct system. As part of our continuous product improvement, Trane reserves the right to change specifications and design without notice. Read important energy cost and efficiency information available from your dealer.

FAQ: Suggested Temperature Settings for a Heat Pump

In the winter, we recommend a temperature setting that is comfortable for your household. Once your thermostat is set, the best policy is to leave it alone. Raising the thermostat as little as 2° F may cause the supplementary heat to come on, thereby increasing your energy usage.

In the summer, a setting of 78° F or higher is recommended for cooling. For each degree you set the temperature below 78° F, you will increase your cooling energy usage approximately three percent.

Raising the temperature when you are away from home during the day is recommended to save energy. If you will be away for several days, turn the system off during the cooling season. Frequent changing of the thermostat setting reduces the economical operation of the heat pump and tends to shorten the life of the compressor.

Product Feature: Mitsubishi H2i Hyper-Heating INVERTER Systems Heat Pumps

Bringing Year-Round Comfort Solutions to Extreme Climates

Heat Pump System: 34200 to 36000 Btu/h Capacity

The cooling and heating success of Mitsubishi Electric’s INVERTER heat pump systems is well documented. Our Hyper-Heating INVERTER (H2i) P-Series technology advances the process a step further with the added benefit of year-round comfort with a single system even on the coldest days of the year in most areas. The 2.5- and 3-ton wall-mounted, ceiling-suspended, ceilingcassette and ducted indoor units connected to the H2i P-Series outdoor units are flexible enough to satisfy almost any light commercial or institutional renovation or new construction project.

• Specifications are subject to change without notice.
• Limited warranty: Seven-year warranty on compressor. Five-year warranty on parts.

Indoor Unit Item No.	Item Name	Outdoor Unit	Cooling Rated Capacity	Cooling Capacity Range	Cooling Total Input	Cooling Energy Efficiency
PKA-A30KA	Heat Pump System - Wall-mounted models - Wired Controller	PUZ-HA30NHA2	30000 Btu/hr	18000-30000 Btu/hr	2500 W	16.5 SEER
PKA-A36KA	Heat Pump System- Wall-mounted models - Wired Controller	PUZ-HA36NHA2	33500 Btu/hr	18000-34200 Btu/hr	2790 W	16.2 SEER
PKA-A30KAL	Heat Pump System- Wall-mounted models - Wireless Controller	PUZ-HA30NHA2	30000 Btu/hr	18000-30000 Btu/hr	2500 W	16.5 SEER
PKA-A36KAL	Heat Pump System - Wall-mounted models - Wireless Controller	PUZ-HA36NHA2	33500 Btu/hr	18000-34200 Btu/hr	2790 W	16.2 SEER
PLA-A30BA	Heat Pump System - Ceiling-casset te models	PUZ-HA30NHA2	30000 Btu/hr	18000-30000 Btu/hr	2450 W	15.6 SEER
PLA-A36BA	Heat Pump System - Ceiling-casset te models	PUZ-HA36NHA2	34000 Btu/hr	18000-36000 Btu/hr	2690 W	17.0 SEER
PCA-A30KA	Heat Pump System - Ceiling-suspended models	PUZ-HA30NHA2	30000 Btu/hr	18000-30000 Btu/hr	2480 W	16.1 SEER
PCA-A36KA	Heat Pump System - Ceiling-suspended models	PUZ-HA36NHA2	34000 Btu/hr	18000-36000 Btu/hr	2810 W	16.6 SEER
PEAD-A30AA	Heat Pump System - Horizontal ducted models	PUZ-HA30NHA2	30000 Btu/hr	18000-30000 Btu/hr	2500 W	16.5 SEER
PEAD-A36AA	Heat Pump System - Horizontal ducted models	PUZ-HA36NHA2	34000 Btu/hr	18000-36000 Btu/hr	2800 W	16.8 SEER