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 PGE Home >> Home Solutions >> Energy Savings >> Heat Pumps
Heat Pumps Energy Efficiency
Ask the Energy Experts

The PGE Energy Experts can help you decide if a heat pump makes sense for your home, explain incentives and tax credits, and answer questions when you’re reviewing bids. Give them a call at 503-612-3500 or 800-722-9287.

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 Use energy wisely for long-term savings.

Heat pump efficiency is measured by three ratings: HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) for heating, SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) for cooling. The higher the rating, the more efficient the heat pump is.

Most new heat pumps range from 7.7 to 9.5 HSPF and from 13 to 18 SEER.* ENERGY STAR® qualified heat pumps have at least an 8.2 HSPF and a 14 SEER.

The following example shows potential energy savings from an energy-efficient heat pump.

Annual energy cost comparison (typical 1,800 square-foot home):

  • Electric furnace with 10 SEER air conditioning = $1,747
  • 7.7 HSPF/13 SEER heat pump = $951
  • Energy savings = $796 (46 percent)
  • This is an example only and assumes similar weather, thermostat settings and living patterns before and after installing the heat pump. Individual circumstances will vary. Ask the PGE Energy Experts, or your dealer, for more information.

    To estimate how much energy you could save with an energy-efficient heat pump compared to other heating systems, use our free Energy Comparison Calculator.

    Ways to save
    A PGE rebate, an Energy Trust incentive and tax credits can help you make the investment. They’re available whether you’re replacing an older, less-efficient heat pump or upgrading an electric heating system.

    PGE rebate
    If you have electric heat, you may qualify for a PGE rebate when you install an energy-efficient heat pump. We recommend you contact a PGE-approved contractor. These firms are familiar with our program, equipment, specifications and installation requirements.

    Energy Trust incentives
    You may qualify for a $150 to $400 Energy Trust incentive if you install a premium-efficiency heat pump that meets Energy Trust standards (minimum 8.2 HSPF, 14 SEER and 11.5 EER). To be eligible for the Energy Trust incentive, your heat pump must be installed by a qualified Energy Trust trade ally.

    Tax credits
    If you install a qualified heat pump (9.0 HSPF and 12 EER), you may be eligible for a $300 to $430 Oregon Residential Energy Tax Credit. To qualify, you must have a qualified diagnostic test performed and the heat pump must be installed by a state-certified contractor.

    * Heat pump manufacturers continue to improve efficiency. Air source heat pumps with efficiencies up to 11 HSPF and 21 SEER are available. See your contractor for details.