How to Determine Heat Pump Efficiency

If you are in the market for a new heat pump, efficiency is probably a key factor in your search—and for good reason. A more efficient system means better comfort, lower energy bills, and reduced environmental impact.

Fortunately, the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) has a universal ranking system for heating and cooling units that helps make comparing models easier: HSPF2 and SEER2.

You might have seen these abbreviations on brochures or product listings, but what do they actually mean? These acronyms represent standardized efficiency ratings that tell you how well an HVAC unit performs under typical operating conditions. Understanding these can help you make a more informed investment in your home’s comfort.

Here is your guide to determining heat pump efficiency, courtesy of the pros at Ballard Natural Gas Service.

What Is HSPF2?

HSPF2 stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor 2. This rating measures a heat pump’s heating efficiency over the course of a heating season. Specifically, it calculates the total heat output (in British Thermal Units, or BTUs) divided by the total electricity consumed (in watt-hours).

In simpler terms, it tells you how much heat your system delivers for every unit of electricity it uses. The higher the HSPF2 rating, the more efficient the system is.

What’s a Good HSPF2 Rating?

The federal minimum for any heat pump is an HSPF2 of 7.5, and ratings go up from there. A “good” rating would be one with an HSPF2 of 9 or 10.

In regions with long, cold winters, a heat pump with a high HSPF2 can significantly lower your winter energy bills.

Minimum HSPF2 for ENERGY STAR®

The ENERGY STAR® program has set a minimum HSPF2 of 8.1 for single-package equipment, which is a traditional heating and cooling unit. For mini split configurations, also known as ductless systems, the minimum HSPF2 is 8.5.

What Is SEER2?

SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2. While HSPF2 applies to heating, SEER2 measures a heat pump’s cooling efficiency. It is calculated by dividing the system’s cooling output (BTUs) by the total electricity used during a typical cooling season.

As with HSPF2, a higher SEER2 indicates a more efficient unit. SEER2 ratings are useful for determining how well your system will perform during hot summer months.

What’s a Good SEER2 Rating?

Federal minimum SEER2 ratings vary by region—in the North, it’s 13.4; in the South and Southeast, 14.3; and in the Southwest, it is also 14.3.

A rating between 13.4 and 15.1 is considered “good,” while a SEER2 rating between 15.2 and 17 is considered “high-efficiency.” Anything over 17 SEER2 is a premium efficiency unit.

In a region that experiences hot, humid summers, investing in a unit with a high SEER2 rating will help keep your home cool without driving up your energy bills.

Minimum SEER2 for ENERGY STAR®

A residential, air-source, split-system heat pump must have a minimum SEER2 rating of 15.2 to meet ENERGY STAR® standards.

Which Heat Pump Should I Get?

Choosing the right heat pump involves balancing both HSPF2 and SEER2, based on your local climate and usage patterns.

• If you live in a cooler climate, prioritize the HSPF2 rating. Since you’ll be using your system mostly for heating, a unit with a high HSPF2 will provide better comfort and savings.
• If your area sees hotter temperatures most of the year, then SEER2 becomes more important. A high SEER2 will mean lower costs during the cooling season.

That said, these ratings assume ideal operating conditions. In the real world, a heat pump that’s improperly sized for your home may never reach its rated efficiency.

Why Heat Pump Size Matters

An oversized heat pump may short cycle—turning on and off too frequently. This not only wastes energy but can also wear out parts prematurely and lead to inconsistent indoor temperatures.

An undersized heat pump, on the other hand, may run constantly in an effort to keep up with demand, using more electricity and reducing system lifespan.

To avoid these problems, proper sizing is critical. This means taking into account:

• The square footage of your home
• The level of insulation
• Window placement and efficiency
• Local climate conditions
• Number of occupants
• And more

Let the HVAC Professionals Help

The best way to ensure you’re getting an efficient and properly sized and efficient heat pump is to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our experienced technicians at Ballard Natural Gas Service.

We’ll perform professional heat-load calculations to determine your home’s specific needs and match you with systems that will perform efficiently and reliably.

From there, you can select a heat pump that fits your efficiency goals and budget. With access to the latest ENERGY STAR®-certified models, you can feel confident that your new system will meet or exceed current energy standards.

Contact Ballard Natural Gas Service for All Your Heat Pump Needs

At Ballard Natural Gas Service, we’re proud to install and service energy-efficient heat pumps. Whether you’re replacing an older unit or installing a heat pump for the first time, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your home and family.

Have questions about HSPF2, SEER2, or which unit is best for your climate? Call us today at 206-452-1705 or request service online. We’re happy to walk you through your options and make sure your next heat pump delivers on both performance and efficiency.