There are two basic types of air conditioner to choose from, a standard split-system, or a heat pump. With a standard system, when the unit is operated, the condenser in the yard gets warm and the evaporator coil in the furnace gets cold, thereby cooling the home in summer. With a heat pump, the same happens in summer, but additionally in winter the reverse also occurs: the outside condenser gets cold and the inside evaporator coil inside the air handler gets warm and thereby heats the home. Heat pumps are a highly efficient method of heating your home when the outside temperature is above 25 degrees.  If you live in an area where the temperature regularly falls below 25 degrees, a secondary heat source such as a gas, oil or propane furnace, or electric resistance heat (heater coils) is required to keep your home warm on the coldest days.   Pairing the two heating systems together is called a two-stage heating system (or "hybrid" system), and is commonly done to achieve low operating costs.  We will gladly help you select the appropriate two-stage heating equipment for your home.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher the SEER, the less electricity the unit uses when operating. All SEER units of the same cooling capacity (size, measured in tons or BTUs) produce the same amount of cooling, but the higher SEER models save you more money on your electrical utility bills.

To match a heat pump with its appropriate components to create a complete heat pump system, use our easy System Selector online. Simply answer a few questions online, and we will immediately provide you with a complete package including the heat pump equipment and components, air handler, and more.

Select if:

• You want to save money up front, but still want an energy-efficient product.  13 SEER is the lowest efficiency manufactured, but is the most popular choice. 

Select if:

• You want to balance up front costs with energy savings down the road.  14/15 SEER is considered very efficient. 

Select if:

• You want to spend more up front on the product to obtain energy savings over time.  16 SEER is highly efficient. 

Select if:

• You want the highest efficiency heat pump and the best technology available.