Have you finally decided on a central heat pump, but you’re not sure of the best solution for your home?
Below, we will try to guide your search, to ensure you achieve optimal comfort and stay within your investment budget.
Heat pumps are highly efficient heating systems for cold climates, which explains their popularity in Quebec. In principle, their mechanism is quite simple: they capture heat from the outdoor air and transfer it into the house, using a system of piping, pumps and compressors. In summer, they do the reverse, moving excess indoor heat to the outdoors. Central heat pumps are generally located outside the house and their efficiency also depends on other factors, such as the house’s insulation, floor area, or room layout.
Heat pump manufacturers have designed models suitable for housing units of various sizes and to specific climate conditions. When you choose a heat pump, it is important to consider the size of your home, the efficiency of its insulation, solar exposure, etc. Note that Canada has the CSA-F280-FM90 standard, which determines the power required for residential heating and cooling devices. Its purpose is to guide your choice and it stipulates that system power is optimal if it meets 125 percent of your air conditioning needs.
Price is usually a very crucial factor in the decision to buy a heat pump. However, price can vary depending on the manufacturer, system power, energy efficiency, complementary functions, as well as the dealer.
Installing a heat pump depends to a great extent on pre-existing air ducts in the home. Central heat pumps operate with a central unit and ventilation ducts that pass through the home’s walls and ceilings. If the home already has a system of air ducts, installation will be easier and less expensive and you need only worry about the location of the central unit. Obtaining professional advice is wise, to choose the best location for this unit. If your priority is to optimize heating, it is best to install the unit in the sunniest location on the south side of the house, preferably sheltered from the wind. If your old heating system does not use heating ducts, a duct system will have to be installed.
Heat pump energy efficiency should be the buyer’s priority, because such a major investment is justified only if comfort in the home improves significantly.
There is now a way to determine a heat pump’s efficiency rating, known as SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), or in French, TRES (taux de rendement énergétique saisonnier). We recommend that you purchase a central heat pump with a SEER of at least 14.
Another important factor is the heating season performance coefficient (HSPF), which represents the heat yield related to the quantity of energy. The best options are those with the highest HSPF.
This heat pump is a very efficient solution with a two-stage compressor that provides major energy savings year-round. Its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is rated between 15 and 18.
It is covered by a 10-year warranty on parts.
York central heat pumps combine esthetics with the very latest technology (undeniable coil and compressor quality) to ensure a high degree of thermal comfort year-round. Their SEER is rated between 14 and 18.
With a smaller size, quiet running and particularly high efficiency (up to SEER 20), the Daikin central heat pump is equipped with comfort control functions such as dual air dampers, automatic vertical pivoting functions, 360° airflow, and optional air filters. Parts are guaranteed for 10 years.
