SEER and HSPF: How Heating Pump Efficiency Is Measured
Comfort Zone • January 21, 2014

January 21, 2014

Trying to understand the technical specifications of complex machines can turn bewildering. Heat pumps are no exception. Don’t worry: with a skilled technician helping you either with selecting a heat pump or repairing one, you’ll have a guide through the technical maze.

We can help you right now by explaining two of the most important numbers for heat pumps, SEER and HSPF. These two acronyms will tell you how efficiently a heat pump uses energy to provide you with cooling and heating. One measures cooling efficiency, the other heating efficiency.

For more help with heat pumps, call Comfort Zone Heating & Air. We have earned the trust of many homeowners over the years with our services for heating in North Atlanta, GA.

SEER

SEER is the efficiency rating for a heat pump in cooling mode. SEER stands for “seasonal energy efficiency rating,” and is similar to EER, “energy efficiency rating,” except that it measures the average efficiency over a season, rather than on a single test. SEER is the ratio of the amount of cooling energy the heat pump provides in BTUs (British Thermal Units) to the amount of energy consumed in watt-hours. The ratio is expressed as a whole number. The higher the number, the more efficiently the heat pump uses electricity to remove heat from indoors and move it outdoors. In order for a heat pump to qualify for the U.S. government’s Energy Star label, it must have a SEER of 14 or higher.

HSPF

When in heating mode, a heat pump’s efficiency is measured as HSPF, which stands for “heating seasonal performance factor.” It is measured in an almost identical way to SEER: the ratio of heat provided in BTUs to the energy consumed in watt-hours, as measured over a season. Again, the higher the HSPF number, the more efficient the system. HSPF is usually lower than SEER, because heat pumps are not as effective at drawing heat from cold outdoor air as they are drawing it from warm indoor air. Most heat pumps will have an HSPF of around 9 or 10.

If you are currently considering installing a heat pump, knowing a unit’s efficiency is only part of finding the right heat pump. Let your installer guide you in finding the right type and size of heat to provide you with the optimal comfort in your home.

When you need assistance with your heating in North Atlanta, GA, call up the skilled professionals at Comfort Zone Heating & Air. We can help you install, repair, or maintain your heat pump so you have the maximum year-round comfort.

< Older Post

 Newer Post >
Comfort Zone logo with red and blue swooshes, text reading

What’s the Best AC System for Georgia Homes?

By Comfort Zone • June 17, 2025
Georgia summers aren’t for the faint of heart. Every year, our humid subtropical climate graces the state with sticky temps soaring into the 90s, leaving us with our noses up against the air vent in search of relief. Here, a dependable air conditioner isn’t just about comfort, it’s necessary for survival. In fact, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, 95% of Georgia homes use some type of air conditioning,... The post What’s the Best AC System for Georgia Homes? appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing.
Comfort Zone logo with red and blue swooshes, text reading

Winter Warmth: How to Avoid Dry Air Discomfort

By Comfort Zone • November 4, 2024
As the last leaves fall and temperatures drop, we find ourselves turning on the heaters. While the warmth is comforting, it comes with a downside: dry air. This can lead to various issues like dry skin, irritated sinuses, and scratchy throats. Beyond health problems, dry air also causes static electricity, more dust, damage to wood and leather, and unhappy house plants. Here’s how to combat the dry air while enjoying... The post Winter Warmth: How to Avoid Dry Air Discomfort appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing.
Logo for Comfort Zone Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing with the tagline,

Tips to Save Money on Your Heating this Winter

By Comfort Zone • October 3, 2024
Southern winters can be unpredictable, but to keep that “comfort of home” feeling, you will have to use your heat. Running a home’s HVAC system is often one of the most expensive utilities, so let’s explore some ways we can save a little money while staying warm over the winter. By implementing these tips, you can enjoy a warm and cozy home without breaking the bank. Small changes can lead... The post Tips to Save Money on Your Heating this Winter appeared first on Comfort Zone Heating Cooling Plumbing.
Show More →