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Sumter, S.C. 29151 -- Phone: 803-481-8200 Fax: 803-481-8256
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Heat Pump Q & A


Why are electric heat pumps so popular?
Environmentally conscious consumers are looking for earth-friendly products, vehicles, and homes that use energy wisely. Electric heat pumps are energy efficient, innovative, and inexpensive to operate. All of these things come together to give you just what you want: a comfortable, energy-efficient home.

What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is a high efficiency heating and cooling system. Think of an air conditioner that you can shift into reverse. That's basically the idea of a heat pump. Its design and operation are much like an air conditioner's, except heat pumps contain a reversing valve which allows heat to be moved into the home in winter or out of the home in summer.

How does a heat pump work?
A heat pump's operation and efficiency come from a basic principle known as heat transfer. Rather than creating heat, the electric heat pump utilizes existing heat and simply moves it to the desired location. The result is a constant, comfortable flow of air into the home.
The beauty of an electric heat pump is that in summer the process can be reversed by the touch of a switch on the home's indoor thermostat, providing year-round comfort.

What are the advantages of an electric heat pump?
  • Comfort: Electric heat pumps provide even distribution of heat throughout the home without hot and cold spots. And during the summer they provide superior home cooling.
  • Operating Costs: Electric heat pumps are extremely efficient. They cost less to operate than gas or oil furnaces, meaning lower heating and cooling bills.
  • Two-in-One Design: With an electric heat pump, one unit does the work of both a furnace and an air conditioner. That makes them easier to install and less expensive to maintain.
  • Safety: Electric heat pumps are flameless. So you can count on safe and dependable heat, without the storage or transport of combustible fuels in or around the home.
  • Air Quality: Because the electric heat pump requires no on-site combustion, it does not contribute to poor indoor air quality.


Why is an electric heat pump such an economical decision?
As discussed earlier, the cost of moving heat as compared to creating it is much less. And since the heat pump excels at both heating and cooling the home, there is no need to install, maintain and operate separate air conditioning and furnace systems.

What are SEER and HSPF?
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor are efficiency guides which help consumers compare the performance of different heat pumps. The SEER compares the total cooling output delivered to the home to watts of electrical energy used. Likewise, the HSPF rating compares BTUs of heat output to watts of electrical energy input. In both SEER and HSPF the higher the rating the better the efficiency.

Does climate affect the operation of the heat pump?
Climate can affect the operation of a heat pump, but fortunately the mild climate of South Carolina is perfect for this system. Since extreme low temperatures are the exception rather than the rule, the electric heat pump is very capable of keeping a home comfortable.

What will my operating costs be like?
Operating costs are hard to predict because of the variety of home styles and sizes and the different operating habits of the families in those homes. But, electric rates across South Carolina are very competitive, and in most cases electricity is the most economical choice available. And, many electric utilities in the state offer special rates and discounts, low-interest loans or rebates for electric heat pumps. How can I maximize the performance and minimize the operating cost of my heat pump? Proper sizing and installation of a heat pump are very important to its effective performance. Also, like any system, regular maintenance will optimize the efficiency and performance of the unit. In both cases, a professional, state-licensed contractor is the best answer. Our member contractors have been recognized for their efforts to stay informed and properly-trained in the installation and maintenance of the electric heat pump.
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