Air to air heat pump truths
Unveiling the Truth About Heat Pump Efficiency
When it comes to heat pump efficiency, there’s more to the story than what meets the eye. Sure, AHRI ratings can give you an idea of how your system performs under ideal conditions, but they don’t always tell the full picture.
Defrost Cycles: The Hidden Efficiency Drain
One of the biggest factors that can impact your electric bill is defrost cycles. During these cycles, your system switches to air conditioning mode and your backup electric heaters kick in to melt frost off the outdoor coil. This is necessary, but it isn’t always predictable. Defrost cycles spike during high humidity, and surprisingly, Central Pennsylvania winters can be quite humid. In my own home, I see defrost cycles a dozen times a day. With a 10KW electric heater, that can add $3.00 - $5.00 to my electric bill per day, especially on cold, humid days!
So, why does your electric bill stay high even with a high-efficiency heat pump? While the system may be running at 70% efficiency below freezing, the frequent defrost cycles aren’t factored into the AHRI ratings, and that can make a significant difference in your overall energy use.
What Can You Do About It?
Keep Your Air Filter CleanThis one’s a game-changer. Clean filters ensure good airflow, which is essential for efficiency. A clogged filter makes your system work harder, costing you more. Don’t go overboard with a MERV 15 filter; stick to a maximum of MERV 10. Change it every three months, and in winter, swap it out every month. Clean air filter = better airflow = lower costs. It’s that simple.
Reconsider Temperature SetbacksIf you’re turning the temperature way down while you’re out or at night, you might not be saving as much as you think. Lowering the temperature too much can cause the system to kick in the backup electric heat to compensate. Instead, keep a steady, consistent temperature to avoid the backup heat from activating. Let your heat pump do its job efficiently throughout the day, so it doesn’t have to work overtime in the evening.
Final Thoughts
You can’t avoid auxiliary heat during defrost cycles, but by optimizing airflow and avoiding drastic temperature setbacks, you can minimize unnecessary strain on your system. Keeping things steady and efficient will help you get the most out of your heat pump—both in terms of comfort and savings.
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