Heat Pump Optimization

A high-efficiency heat pump is an energy-efficient heating and cooling solution when installed and maintained properly. To ensure your new heat pump is operating at maximum efficiency, Energy Trust recommends heat pump optimization (also known as "commissioning") with CheckMe!® diagnostic testing. CheckMe! is an award-winning certification system for maximizing heat pump performance.

Why optimization is important

Optimization ensures that your heat pump and air ducts are working as an integrated system. When combined with a certified CheckMe! diagnostic test, optimization can reduce energy costs, increase comfort and extend the life of your equipment. This is important when new heat pumps are installed and as part of periodic maintenance.

Heat Pump Optimization Cash Incentive—$150

This cash incentive applies to new heat pumps used as a primary heat source only. Heat pump commissioning must be performed by a CheckMe! or PTCS-certified technician. A CheckMe! or PTCS Heat Pump form is required to receive incentives.

How optimization works

CheckMe! technicians test the following elements to maximize heat pump performance:

• Refrigerant charge—Electronically measure for leaks, moisture build up and overcharging to prevent improper system operation and compressor failure
• Air flow—Test air flow to identify any problems caused by dirty inside coils, closed registers or inadequate duct system sizing or operation
• Controls—Verify that thermostats and other controls are operating correctly. Rewiring is sometimes performed to ensure efficient performance. Outdoor thermostats are installed when appropriate.

To ensure your new or existing heat pump is optimized, contact a CheckMe! certified trade ally contractor.

How a heat pump works

Electric air-source heat pumps are a great heating and cooling choice in mild climates like the Pacific Northwest. In the winter, a heat pump collects heat from outdoor air and pumps it inside to warm your home. In the summer, the process is reversed and the heat pump operates as an air conditioner, removing heat from inside your home.

Because it transfers heat rather than burning fuel to create heat, a heat pump uses significantly less energy to supply the same amount of heat as a traditional furnace.

A heat pump is made up of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, which work together to heat or cool air and distribute it through the duct system in your home. Most heat pumps use electric resistance heaters (commonly referred to as “strip heat”) to provide supplemental heat when outdoor temperatures are very low. Heat pumps are most economical when supplemental heat is not in use. Outdoor thermostats should be installed and configured to prevent strip heat from activating before it is necessary.