What is HSPF? Heat Pump Efficiency Explained

What is HSPF?

HSPF stands for heating seasonal performance factor and measures the heating efficiency of a heat pump system. The higher the HSPF rating, the more efficient the heat pump. Systems with higher energy efficiency are typically more expensive to purchase and install, but come with added benefit of lower operating costs, which means lower energy bills.

This measurement is calculated by dividing total heat output by the total energy input during a time period.

If you’re shopping for a new heat pump, it’s important to understand how the HSPF rating system works and how it can impact your home, indoor comfort, and wallet.

The cooling efficiency of a heat pump is measured with a SEER rating.

What is the highest HSPF rating?

The high end of Heating Seasonal Performance Factor ratings for heat pumps generally sits around HSPF 13. Heat pumps with ratings of 13 or higher are generally the newer models that meet and exceed Energy Star standards.

The minimum HSPF rating required by the U.S. Department of Energy is 8.2 for split-system heat pumps and 8.0 for single package heat pumps.

What is Energy Star?

Energy Star is a program established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help businesses and individuals save money on energy bills while protecting the environment through the utilization of higher efficiency electronic devices and appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and heat pumps.

Products that meet Energy Star standards are labeled with the Energy Star logo so they are easily identifiable when shopping. To earn that logo, products must undergo rigorous testing to ensure they might performance standards set by the EPA.

When a product has been certified by Energy Star, you can rest easy that the machine is at least 10-30% more efficient than non-certified alternatives.

What is a heat pump?

Heat pumps are HVAC systems that offer both heating and cooling functionality, unlike central air systems that only cool or furnaces that can only heat. They are often more efficient than central air conditioning and furnaces, leading to lower electricity bills.

Heat pump systems operate by moving warm air from one location to another. In warm weather, they move warm air from indoors to outside to create a cooling effect. In cold weather, the system reverses and pulls warm air from the outdoors inside.

What HSPF rating do you need?

Depending on where you live and the climate of that region, you may want a heat pump with a higher HSPF rating. In states with hot climates and mild winters like Texas, a heat pump with an HSPF rating of 8.2 may be sufficient.

However, if enhanced energy efficiency, lower electric bills, and potential long term cost savings are attractive, you may consider purchasing and installing a heat pump with an HSPF rating of 9 or more. Heat pumps with higher HSPF ratings are often more expensive.

Want lower electric bills?

If you’re interested in installing a high efficiency heat pump with a solid HSPF rating to help reduce your energy bills, you may also be interested in switching to BKV Energy.

Our flagship plan, Bluebonnet, offers an affordable fixed rate and comes packed with benefits. Enter your zip code to explore prices near you and learn more.

Written by Graham Lumley

Graham Lumley, Growth Product Manager at BKV Energy, leads digital and traditional marketing strategies, focusing on educating Texans about the state's deregulated energy market. With over 10 years of marketing experience, he creates content to help consumers understand and save on their energy bills, bringing a fresh and dynamic approach to the industry.