Buying a Heat Pump? We Investigate Who Does it Best

When it comes to heating and cooling homes, heat pumps stand out as an energy efficient system that provides both heating and air conditioning from a single unit. With many brands to choose from, we set out to determine which manufacturer makes the best heat pump by comparing efficiency ratings, features, reliability, and overall value.

Our research uncovered that Daikin, Trane, and Carrier rise above the competition as the top heat pump brands on the market today.

What is a Heat Pump and Why Buy One?

Heat pumps are electric heating and cooling systems that transfer heat between indoor and outdoor air. They use a refrigeration cycle with a compressor and refrigerant to absorb heat from one space and move it to another, allowing them to cool and heat homes very efficiently.

There are many benefits to choosing a heat pump over traditional HVAC systems:

• Energy efficiency and cost savings - Heat pumps provide up to 3x more heating and cooling output than the electrical energy they consume.
• Heating and cooling in one system - No need for separate equipment for air conditioning and heating.
• Environmentally friendly - They reduce carbon emissions by using less fossil fuel electricity.
• Effective in cold weather - Advancements in technology allow cold climate heat pumps to operate efficiently even when it's below freezing.

The main types of heat pumps available include air-to-air, water source, and geothermal models. In this article we focus on reviewing air-to-air heat pump brands commonly used in residential home HVAC systems.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Heat Pump

Efficiency Ratings

A major reason homeowners choose heat pumps is their energy efficient operation, so efficiency ratings should be top of mind when selecting a unit. Important metrics to compare include:

• SEER - Stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the cooling performance.
• HSPF - Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. Like SEER, but measures heating efficiency. Look for a high HSPF.
• EER - Energy Efficiency Ratio is efficiency at specific temperature conditions.

Daikin, Trane, and Lennox lead the pack when it comes to SEER ratings on variable speed compressor heat pumps. Models range from 18-20+ SEER for optimal energy savings potential.

Features

Today's heat pumps offer advanced features for improved performance and convenience:

• Smart/WiFi controls - Enable remote monitoring and adjustments from anywhere.
• Zone control - Control temperature in different areas of your home for customized comfort.
• Air filtration - Some models include advanced air purifying filters to remove allergens.
• Dual fuel capabilities - Pair heat pump with a gas furnace for versatility.

High-end options like Carrier's Infinity Series and Trane's XV20i feature intuitive comfort controls through mobile apps and smart thermostats with remote access.

Reliability and Durability

You want your heat pump system to deliver many years of trouble-free heating and cooling. Important reliability factors are:

• Warranties - Top brands offer 10 year or longer warranties on compressors and parts.
• Reputation - Proven track record for durable systems.
• Average lifespan - Quality heat pumps operate reliably for 15-20 years.

Daikin, Lennox, Trane, and Carrier have excellent reputations and stand behind their heat pumps with industry leading warranties, a mark of reliable construction.

Noise Output

While heat pumps have a compressor and fan that produces some noise, technology improvements have made many units run very quietly. Key considerations are:

• Indoor and outdoor sound power ratings
• Where the unit is positioned/mounted outside
• Surrounding environmental noise

Daikin and Carrier are recognized as the quietest heat pump brands currently available.

Cost of Installation and Operation

While purchasing an efficient heat pump upfront costs more than less efficient models, the investment pays off through lower energy bills over time. Cost factors are:

• Upfront equipment purchase price
• Installation costs
• Energy efficiency savings

American Standard, Goodman and Amana heat pumps cost less upfront but come with lower SEER ratings. Daikin and Carrier models cost more yet the energy savings can yield a quicker payback.

Our Top Picks for Best Heat Pump Brand

Based on efficiency, features, reliability, sound levels and value, we recommend Daikin, Trane or Carrier heat pumps for residential home installation.

Daikin

• Japanese company with over 90 years experience
• Consistently top ratings for efficiency
• Excellent cold weather heat pump performance
• Very quiet operation - as low as 44 dB
• Self-monitoring and diagnostics

Daikin heat pumps achieve up to 19 SEER ratings for maximum energy savings. Models with variable speed compressors provide ultra-efficient heating and cooling.

Trane

• Over 100 years experience in HVAC equipment
• Up to 12 year warranty on parts and labor
• WiFi enabled heat pumps for smart controls
• High-end XV heat pumps rated up to 20 SEER

From their XR series to premium XV line, Trane heat pumps offer advanced features and excellent cold weather capability with heating down to -13degF (-25degC).

Carrier

• Industry leader in heat pumps since 1914
• Infinity Series optimizes comfort and efficiency
• Strong warranty coverage
• Quiet and reliable performance

Carrier's Greenspeed intelligence monitors conditions to optimize compressor speeds for peak efficiency and home comfort.

When it comes to selecting the best heat pump brand, key factors are efficiency ratings, advanced features, noise levels, warranties and overall value. Daikin, Trane and Carrier heat pumps consistently rise to the top across these categories. While the upfront cost is higher, the energy savings pay back over time through lowered electricity bills for heating and cooling.

We recommend considering total installation costs vs efficiency ratings to find the right balance of value for your home's heating and cooling needs.