There is no inherent difference in running costs when comparing modern heat pumps and air conditioners with similar efficiency ratings. However, if you are upgrading a full system (air conditioner and oil furnace), a new central heat pump can significantly reduce your yearly heating and cooling costs.
Soundview HVAC is your climate specialist in Suffolk County. See what makes heat pumps more efficient and talk to us today for your free estimate and home comfort consultation.
Key Takeaways
- Heat pumps and air conditioners are equally efficient in summer when comparing similar SEER2 ratings.
- Modern heat pumps are significantly more efficient than older units ready for replacement.
- Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling and are more efficient than oil furnaces for winter heating.
Heat Pumps are Air Conditioners with an Added Feature
The reason heat pumps and air conditioners have similar operating costs is because they rely on the exact same technology to cool your home. A heat pump is an air conditioner, with the exception that it also has a reversing valve so that it can provide heat in winter.
Summer Cooling Costs
When comparing a heat pump or air conditioner with a 14.3 SEER2 rating, they will perform identically for summer cooling.
The only situation where you would notice a significant difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner is if you are replacing an older system. Modern heat pumps have higher efficiency standards thanks to innovations in designs and refrigerant gases. If your old air conditioner (likely a SEER 10 – 13 unit) was installed around 2011, and you replace it with a 14.3 SEER2 heat pump, you can expect a cooling efficiency increase of at least 15%.
That figure will increase depending on the specific hardware. Heat pumps with high SEER2 ratings will maximize your savings.
Winter Comfort with a Heat Pump
A new heat pump can also warm your home in winter. If you have an old oil furnace, a heat pump installation in Suffolk County can provide several advantages:
- Oil furnaces max out at around 90-95% efficiency (AFUE). Heat pumps produce around 2 to 4 units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. To compare that to a furnace, that’s around 200% to 400% efficiency.
- There are no oil deliveries or price volatility risks. Oil prices swing heavily with global supply disruptions and geopolitical factors. The cost of electricity to run a heat pump increases gradually over time, but the changes are never as dramatic as with fuel oil.
- You will have one system that does two jobs. A heat pump provides year-round climate control.
- There’s no combustion, no chimney, and no fire or carbon monoxide risk.
If your old air conditioner is due for replacement, it’s worth considering what you should do about your entire heating and cooling system. Taking the opportunity to replace the old AC and your furnace could mean better overall efficiency and reduced annual costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Downsides to Having a Heat Pump in Suffolk County?
There are no major downsides to choosing a heat pump installation, unless you have a gas furnace. If you have a modern gas furnace, its winter cost efficiency will be similar to a heat pump. The best option in this case is to replace your old air conditioner with a modern unit that has a high SEER2 rating.
How Big of a Heat Pump Do I Need for a 2000 Square-Foot House?
As a general rule, most homes need 1 ton of capacity per 500 – 700 square feet. A 2000 square foot home usually needs a 3-to-4-ton system for central heating and cooling.
Soundview HVAC looks at more than just the size of your home to calculate the size of your heat pump. We consider insulation, layout, sunlight exposure, daytime heat gain, and even the local climate in a detailed load calculation. This ensures you get the most efficient system for your money.
Talk to a Trusted HVAC Contractor in Suffolk County
Is it time to replace your old air conditioner? If you’re in Suffolk County, the trusted team at Soundview HVAC can plan an efficient solution to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. If you need a full central air replacement for an AC/oil furnace system, a heat pump is usually ideal.
Explore your options with a detailed home comfort consultation. Reach out to your local HVAC contractor at 631-209-1744 today.
