What Is a Good HSPF2 Rating for Your Heat Pump?

Shopping for a new heat pump? If so, you’ve probably already come across a variety of acronyms. One of the most important is HSPF2, a rating that shows how efficiently a heat pump keeps your home warm during the colder months.

Whether you’re replacing an old unit or buying a heat pump for the first time, knowing what HSPF2 means – and what numbers to look for – can help you make a smarter buying decision.

What Exactly Is an HSPF2 Rating?

HSPF2 stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor 2. It measures how well a heat pump converts electricity into usable heat across an average heating season. The “2” reflects updated U.S. Department of Energy testing procedures that went into effect in 2023, making the ratings more accurate to how systems perform in real-world conditions.

In simple terms: a higher HSPF2 = better heating efficiency = lower winter energy bills.

Heat pumps also use a SEER2 rating, which focuses on cooling efficiency, and an EER2 rating, which measures the system's energy efficiency at peak cooling conditions. Since heat pumps work year-round, you’ll want to consider both SEER2 and EER2 numbers to ensure optimal performance and energy savings.

Minimum HSPF2 Standards

Two main types of heat pumps include split systems, which have both an indoor and outdoor unit (the most common setup in homes), and packaged systems, which house all the components in a single outdoor unit, often used in smaller homes or commercial spaces.

The Department of Energy sets different minimum efficiency requirements for each:

• Split system heat pumps: HSPF2 of 7.5 or higher
• Single packaged heat pumps: HSPF2 of 6.7 or higher

It’s important to note that many modern heat pumps exceed these ratings.

How High Do HSPF2 Ratings Go?

While 7.5 (or 6.7 for packaged units) is the floor, today’s high-efficiency heat pumps can achieve HSPF2 ratings of 10 or more. That’s a significant jump in performance, especially if your heat pump runs frequently in cold weather.

Here’s a quick way to think about it:

• Minimum standard (7.5/6.7): Meets legal requirements, entry-level efficiency.
• 8-9 range: Offers a good balance between performance and savings.
• 10+: Best-in-class efficiency, often found in variable-speed or premium models.

ENERGY STAR Certification

Buying an ENERGY STAR-certified heat pump is an easy way to find an efficient system. Heat pumps must meet the following efficiency criteria:

• Split system HP (Ducted): 16 SEER2, 11 EER2, 8 HSPF2
• Split system HP (Ductless): 16 SEER2, 11 EER2, 8 HSPF2
• Single-package HP: 15.2 SEER2, 10 EER2, 7.2 HSPF2
• Cold Climate Split HP (Ducted): 16 SEER2, 9.8 EER2, 8.5 HSPF2
• Cold Climate Packaged HP: 15.2 SEER2 10 EER2, 8.1 HSPF2
• Cold Climate Split HP (Ductless): 16 SEER2, 9.8 EER2, 8.5 HSPF2

ENERGY STAR units typically offer a good balance between upfront cost and long-term savings, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking efficiency without opting for the most expensive options.

ENERGY STAR recognized heat pumps typically qualify for tax credits and rebates.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Heat Pump’s HSPF2 Rating

So, what’s a “good” HSPF2 rating for you? It depends on your situation:

• Your Climate. Colder climates benefit the most from higher HSPF2 ratings. If your heat pump does most of your heating, going for a system with a rating of 9 or higher can pay off.
• Upfront vs. Ongoing Costs. Greater efficiency usually means a higher price tag. But if you’re planning to stay in your home for many years, the energy savings can make it worth the investment.
• Rebates and Incentives. Many utility companies and state programs offer rebates for heat pumps that exceed minimum efficiency standards. A higher HSPF2 could unlock those savings. Homeowners are also eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $2,000 on qualifying heat pumps. These tax credits are set to expire on December 31, 2025.
• Home Insulation and Size: Larger or poorly insulated homes need a more efficient system, which means a higher HSPF2 rating is necessary to provide adequate heating.