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Heat Pump Terminology
Heat pumps are one of the more modern methods for controlling indoor temperatures. The team at Neerings is starting to see more and more interest in these non-conventional heat sources. These devices are comprised of many parts and components that all have names you may not have heard of or understand. Here is a breakdown of some terminology related to heat pumps, so that you can gain a better knowledge of what this type of HVAC setup is.
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 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 airflow based on a tap setting.
VARIABLE-SPEED BLOWER:
A high efficiency blower that is designed to deliver a varying amount of airflow based on the desired outcome. These blowers increase the effectiveness of humidification, dehumidification, air filtration and balance of airflow.
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 airflow 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.
INDOOR AIR QUALITY:
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.
HEAT PUMP EXPERTS AT NEERINGS
If your property is serviced by a heat pump, and you suspect anything is amiss with the parts we discussed above, give Neerings a call. Our staff of experienced heating technicians will come out and examine your heat pump to see what work is needed. As one of the area’s top HVAC companies, you can trust that we will quickly and efficiently address whatever is wrong with your heat pump and come up with a plan to get it back in good shape.
