SEER Rating for Heat Pump

[thompsdw]

I am looking at a Heil QuietComfort 12 Series Heat pump for an add on addition to my home. I am selecting Heil to match the existing system, however, the other system is a traditional A/C and Forced Air Gas system. This will be my first heat pump, however, I have selected the system due to the ease of installation and heat load condition. I have to install in an unheated area of my attic, so condensate is not a good thing for me. Gas supply would be difficult to get to this location as well. The heat load condition is 1500 ft2 with only two windows and floors below (although the floor is insulated). In winter, I expect the sun to heat up the attic space and reduce heat load. Summer would be the real test of the system.

Boy, that was a long intro (probably too long) for my question. I have the choice of a 10 SEER (what my other two units are) and a 12 SEER system. I will only be in this home for 2-3 more years. The work I am doing is simply an investment. Should I select the lower or higher SEER unit for that term? What is the typical annual operating cost difference?

My dealer is quoting a $400 difference between the two units.

[beenthere]

In theory the 12 seer will use 20% less electric then a 10 seer.

On a heatpump the HSPF is more important, but doubtfull you'll get your money back in 2 to 3 years. Unless the electric rates jumps.

[beenthere]

In theory the 12 seer will use 20% less electric then a 10 seer.

On a heatpump the HSPF is more important, but doubtfull you'll get your money back in 2 to 3 years. Unless the electric rates jumps.

[Irascible]

I believe a 12 SEER saves 16.7% compared to a 10 SEER. :^)

You used the word "investment". I can't speak to your housing market. But out here it's been so hot that you get virtually nothing for new HVAC. Buyers don't care one wit. Be it 20 years old or 20 days old, if the home inspector says it works then that's all the buyers care about.

[docholiday]

Difficult to get gas pipe there but you can run tweo copper refrigerant lines?????? Im not trying to talk you out of a heat pump, I personally think it's a wise decision but before you make a big descision, you need to be honest with reality.

How long and high will your lineset be? There are limits and if exceeded, you will surely be back on hvac-talk asking why arent you getting the performance or reliablity and badmouthing the brand selected.

That said....

Beenthere points out something you should consider. HSPF. SEER is a cooling efficiency HSPF is the heating efficiency. High SEER does not mean high heating efficiency. Do your homework.

[thompsdw]

I am aware of the HSPF, however, it is interesting that Heil does not publish this number in the literature cut sheets. Does anyone know where I can get this number?

This is not a system replacement - I am adding 1,500 ft2 onto an existing home and that is where the investment item comes into play. My lineset will be less than 50'. I actually could get gas to the location, however, it is just not convient to do so. With the price of natural gas these days, the ol' heat pump is an much more attractive option.

[junkhound]

Look at the unit data sheets for COP in heating mode and at tye NOAA web site for historical temperatures in your area if you dont know that by first hand esperience. Multiply COP by 3.412 for HSFP equivalent at that temp.

The Rheem installed in my own house (Pacific NW, almost zero cooling need here)is just a 10 SEER vs 12 SEER by choice. At the nominal winter temps here (42F), the 10 SEER setup (per the Rheem data sheets) performs BETTER than the 12 SEER in the 42 F ambient outside air environment!