When it comes to home climate control, heat pumps are among the most efficient systems you can buy. They work year-round to offer comfort, heating, and cooling for your home and cost a fraction of the running cost of a central AC system.
Heil heat pumps are just one of many brands to choose from. They offer a fairly large inventory of options in a variety of price ranges. This article will examine the Heil brand, their heat pumps and cover everything you need to make an informed decision.
Established in 1962, Heil became a part of the Tempstar corporation (which later became part of International Comfort Products corporation) in 1986. The ICP corporation was bought by the Carrier corporation in 1999, and this is where the company resides today.
Their durability and reliability continue through the corporation changes into current times. With affordability at the forefront of their mission, they want to have a durable model in every home of the country.
While this may not be feasible, the effort is there. With great pricing, efficient units, and features enough to please most consumer’s needs, you will find a decent warranty and simplified installation. If saving money as well as raising efficiency is your plan, Heil has a model for you.
Factors To Look At When Considering A Heat Pump
There are quite a few things to consider before you head out and make a purchase. Along with these Heil standard heat pump reviews in this article, you should pay attention to the following aspects.
Cost of the Heil Models
The overall top factor is the unit cost. Heat pumps are generally cheaper than central air conditioners. However, they aren’t exactly giving them away. Several costs are associated with heat pumps, and the largest are unit costs and installation (more below).
Heil is a mid-range product that offers durability and reliability at quite an affordable price point.
Installation costs
Along with the unit cost, you need to consider installation costs. Labor fees will include installation, mounting, ducting, wiring, and testing. However, you will pay for this service, which you should.
While installation may be a DIY process for a few individuals, the technology and certification requirements behind refrigeration handling and system installation is something you should pay for. In most instances, the costs will vary from region to region and even between contractors.
You can expect to pay between $2500 and $6000 depending on the installation location, size of the system, and any structural obstacles that may come up.
Maintenance costs
After you purchase the unit and pay for installation, you also need to consider maintenance fees. Heil doesn’t require annual maintenance as a part of their warranty. However, you must have the system professionally installed to qualify for the full warranty.
While you aren’t required to have annual maintenance, you should still consider it. This is a process when you hire an HVAC technician and they come to your home. For about 2 hours, they inspect your system, clean, and perform any minor repairs that may be needed. This is a cost between $150 and $300 per year.
Adding this cost to your budget is worthwhile since it will ensure your system is working properly. It also identifies and potential problems before they become a costly repair.
Noise levels
Another factor worth thinking about is noise levels. All machines and electrical equipment produce some level of noise. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), where a higher dB means a louder noise level.
Heil does have quiet machines, but they are not the quietest on the market. You will get about average noise levels across all of the lines. On average, Heil heat pumps range between 60 and 72dB.
Warranty length
Heil warranties are about average when it comes to the overall warranty. But they do step it up a bit on the higher-end models. For the low end, the warranties will cover the system between 1 and 3 years.
Mid-range heat pumps are covered for 5 years, and the top-tier models are covered for 10 years. However, for the mid and top range models, you also get a no-hassle replacement warranty. This means that if the warranty claimed is approved, Heil will replace the entire unit instead of paying for a part repair.
With SEER, the ratio describes the electrical wattage input compared to the BTU output when in cooling mode. During the spring and summer months, a higher SEER rating means a more efficient system.
Heat pumps have a higher SEER possibility compared to central air conditioners, and some brands have models that top out around 17 to 19 SEER. Heat pumps can reach up to 22 or more SEER, with Heil ranging between 14 and 20 SEER.
In the winter, the efficiency is switched to the HSPF rating. This is the same mechanic, putting a ratio on the wattage and BTU production. In the winter months, though, systems use more electricity, so the ratio is lower.
On average, you want a system with at least an HSPF 8 rating. Heil systems average over 9 HSPF, with some of the top tier units reaching 10 HSPF.
Heil Heat Pump Range (Side by Side Comparisons)
Heil heat pumps are one of the largest and most recognized heat pump brands in the market. They offer 11 models that range from low-end, highly affordable to top-tier, highly efficient.
Regardless of your needs, you can find a model that fits your home size, efficiency requirements, and even style needs. With variable speed, dual speed, and even single-speed compressors and sizes spanning 1 to 5 tons, you are sure to find what you need for your home client control needs.
The chart below will look at all 11 models, comparing them on their efficiency ratings, tonnage, and cost. Note that the installation cost includes the unit and labor based on the average installation metric of between $3200 and $5500.
Your costs will vary based on the unit purchased, your location, time of year, and labor per hour costs of the contractor hired for the job.
The Premium Ion series are top-end models with better compressors and higher efficiency.
The Performance Value series holds a more cost-effective solution that is a marked improvement over older central air systems.
Let’s take a closer look at both groups.
Heil Ion System Heat Pumps
The Ion Series is the premium level of heat pumps. They offer better efficiency ratings, more user comfort features and are all compatible with the Ion System Control that uses WiFi and smart thermostats for more control.
With the HVH8 model, you can use the Ion System Control to allow the condenser unit and air handler to communicate with each other. This gives the system up to 19 SEER total by slowly and efficiently controlling the compressor’s speed, fan and blower.
With the HCH6 and HSH6 models, you get up to 17.5 SEER and quiet operation. Both machines will max out at 68dB, and each still uses the wireless control system. The only difference between these two models is that the HSH6 is a single-speed compressor, so it only comes with a 5-year warranty.
Rounding out the Premium line are the HSH5 and HSH4 models, each with a single-speed compressor and up to 16 SEER. These two units are a little bit louder and need to be paired with a compatible air handler for the Ion system to work at all.
You will also find that the HSH4, because of its lowered capabilities, is considered an entry-level Ion machine that only comes with 3-years of warranty coverage.
Heil Performance Series
The other six models fall under the Performance Series. These models do not have the WiFi Ion System control options but still offer high efficiency at an affordable price. The top two models here, the N5H6 and NXH5, can reach up to 17.5 SEER and over 8.5 HSPF for year-round efficiency.
You will also find that there are two models that are Energy Star certified (NXH5 and NXH6), which means that these two models meet the criteria for the federal tax credit total amount of $300.
It is also important to note that all 6 of the Performance models are dual-fuel capable, offering you more installation choice and even better efficiency around the clock.
For those in smaller spaced areas, the compact NH4H4 model is ideal. It has a small footprint, is easy to install, and comes with the ability to pair with other units of the same type. This is perfect in multi-family housing situations or when you need more than one unit installed.
Rounding out the series is the N4H4 and the N4H4**C models. These two are identical in nature, performance, and efficiency. The difference is that the N4H4 is the most cost-effective model, and the **C model is coated to prevent saltwater corrosion, ideal for coastal installations in areas within 10 miles of the ocean.
Power Consumption of Heat Pumps (The Formula)
Calculating the exact consumption amount down to the penny is nearly impossible. With daily changing variables such as humidity, ambient temperature, wind speed, and other unknowns. On average you can expect a wide range of running costs. With top-end models, you will pay less per year than a lower SEER model can run at.
What you should expect is a range between $600 for lower-end models and as little as $425 for the Heil top-end models. Since you can’t know exactly how much you will pay for running costs because of the unknown variable, you need a method to make an educated guess.
You can get pretty close over a certain period of time if you know four simple variables. The first is the watts used by the unit, divided by 1000 to give you the kilowatts (kW) used. You also need to know how much you pay the electric company per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
Once you know those two numbers, you only need to know how many days (D) you want to know the cost for and how many hours (H) per day the unit is actually running. The average during peak months is 4 to 6 hours.
The running cost formula is multiplying all four variables together.
It looks like: kW x kWh x H x D = Running costs.
For example, if we have a 4200-watt system (4.2 kW) and pay the national average of 13 cents per kWh with a 5 hours per day run over the summer months (90 days), the formula looks like this: 4.2 x $0.13 x 5 x 90 = $245.70.
Comparing Heil Heat Pumps with Other Brands
It’s easy to talk up a brand or a product. However, the true test of the market is how the brand or product stands up to the competitors. This section compares Heil, as a heat pump brand, against other large names in the business, like Goodman, Carrier, and Trane.
Heil Vs Goodman Heat Pumps
Goodman is one of the largest names in home climate control, and they have a hefty share of the heat pump market. Like Heil, Goodman heat pumps offer affordable units with high efficiency. However, they have fewer models to choose from. For the 11 Heil models, you only get to choose from 5 Goodman models.
The main difference is durability and performance. Goodman has a highly durable unit that will last several years without any complications. Heil is also durable and reliable, but they offer at most a 10 year warranty. Goodman offers 10 years as well, but once registered, the compressor is warrantied for life.
The choice you have to make here is if you plan to use the system and live in your home until you no longer can, or if you are looking for an efficient system until you sell the home. If it is the first, go with Goodman, the higher cost will be more beneficial in the long run. Otherwise, go with Heil for a less expensive option that will still perform well.
Heil Vs Carrier Heat Pumps
If Goodman is a large name, Carrier is even bigger. You will find competition from Carrier at every price point and tier available. They have the name, the tradition, and the numbers. Carrier is at the top for a reason. They have some of the highest efficiency ratings and offer much quieter models than Heil.
However, with Heil, you will save about 50% on unit and installation costs compared to Carrier. With Heil, you can have variable speed compressors, just like Carrier. You can also have high SEER ratings, just like Carrier. You get a 10 year warranty, too, just like Carrier.
What Carrier offers is brand recognition, reliability, and availability. There isn’t a corner of the country where you cannot get a Carrier heat pump. Heil offers a lower cost and a durable unit, but there are some areas where Heil is not readily available.
Heil Vs Trane Heat Pumps
Trane heat pumps are costly, extremely durable, and highly efficient. You will pay more, but you get unmatched reliability and a durable machine that lasts virtually forever. Trane also offers 10 models with ranges that match those of Heil and top out with three variable-speed compressor options instead of just one.
With Trane, you pay more, but you get more. Higher SEER and HSPF ratings, among other factors, increase the durability, longevity, and reliability of the brand. However, for the budget-conscious, Heil can be a more attractive offer.
When comparing the brand’s top models apples to apples, Heil has a major advantage. While the Trane XV20i does offer 20 SEER, it stalls at 10 HSPF. Heil’s HVH8 model comes in with 19 SEER and 11 HSPF giving you a more well-rounded year-round savings.
It also costs about $2500 less than the Trane model, and installation fees are cut almost in half (on average). However, Trane heat pumps break down far less often than Heil, and when they do, repairs are slightly cheaper. The decision here is if you want to pay more upfront or more in the long run.
Tax Rebate Eligibility on HVAC Systems
The US Federal Government started a tax credit program to incentivize energy efficiency products. In 2018, the tax credit program started by offering a flat rate or percentage credit based on the type of system you buy and install.
For heat pumps, the flat-rate credit is $300. However, you have to qualify, which is quite simple.
You must be the homeowner and live in the home.
The system must be installed by a professional.
For split systems, the unit must combine to be 8.5 HSPF, 12.5 EER, and 15 SEER.
For package systems, the unit must be a minimum of 8 HSPF, 12 EER, and 14 SEER.
The unit must be purchased and installed between January 1st, 2017, and December 31st, 2021.
If you meet all of these qualification requirements, you only need to file tax form 5695 to get the $300 on your next income tax filing.
Choosing an HVAC Contractor: Is It Worth The Cost?
As you know, heat pump installation requires a certified technician for many reasons. The biggest reason is the refrigerant. The EPA requires that anyone working with residential level refrigerant (filling, recovering, handling) must be EPA 608 certified.
Beyond this, you also get a lot of benefits. For starters, you get the experience and a much faster installation time. When a contractor comes to the home, you get the inspection, structural evaluation, measurements, and all manufacturer’s recommended specifications will be met.
When a licensed technician performs the installation of your Heil heat pump, you get a labor warranty (in most cases) that works with your Heil warranty if something should go wrong, especially because of the installation.
On average, across the country, a licensed install will range between $3500 and $5000. This will vary, of course, but it should give you a good idea of what to expect.
Troubleshooting Tips & FAQs
Heil heat pumps, as well as other brands, have mechanical, electrical, and moving parts. Because of that, there are issues the come up. Here, we cover the most common troubleshooting issues and frequently asked questions.
How do you wire a Heil heat pump thermostat?
Heil heat pumps use standard thermostat wires with a common (C-wire) connection. This makes the systems compatible with standard home thermostats, Heil branded thermostats, and even smart thermostats. You can easily install the thermostats by matching the wires, by color, to the proper ports, as noted by your existing configuration.
How much does it cost to replace a defrost board?
In the event your defrost circuit board burns out, you can replace it yourself if you have the tools and technical training or knowledge. A standard control board will cost you between $75 and $125 on average.
If you don’t have the skill to replace the board yourself, you will need to pay labor costs for a technician to do the work for you. On average, those labor fees will fall between $60 and $80 per hour, with an average of 2 hours for the replacement.
Heil heat pump trips breaker or freezes up
If your heat pump constantly trips the breaker, you will most likely need to be diagnosed and repaired by a licensed technician. However, you should check airflow. If the air filter or room vents are dirty or clogged, it can cause the compressor to work harder, which draws more watts than the system is rated for.
If the system is freezing up, you will find ice on the refrigerant lines, coils, or in the evaporator unit. When this happens, the most common cause is a refrigerant leak. As we mentioned earlier, refrigerant requires certification. If you do see ice build-up, you need to turn the heat pump off and call a professional to properly diagnose and repair your system.
Heil heat pump blower doesn’t run
For a blower that doesn’t run, there are several causes, and only a couple can be diagnosed and repaired by the owner. The first is to check the fan motor. You should check the fan setting on the thermostat and make sure it is set to auto or off.
Next, you want to check the wiring. Because the system runs on 240 volts, you need to express extreme caution. If you are worried about testing live wires or don’t want to (understandable), it is time to call a pro.
How do I reset my Heil Heat pump?
Heil heat pumps do not come with a reset switch. If you need to reset the system, you will need to power cycle the system. To do this, you want to turn the thermostat to the off position and then find the two circuit breakers that control the system.
Turn both breakers off and wait for 3 to 5 minutes and then turn the breakers back on. When you restore power to the thermostat, the system will be reset.
Heil heat pump replacement parts
Heil heat pumps will need replacement parts at some point. Finding these parts isn’t very difficult, though. In most cases, major components can be found at any AC supply store, through Heil dealers and retailers, or any HVAC contractor.
It is best to use the same contractor that performed the install as they will have all the records of your system, serial numbers, model numbers and ensure you get the exact fit parts. You can also shop online through sites like Amazon as long as you know your part numbers to get the right pieces.
At what temperature is a heat pump not effective?
Most heat pumps, Heil included, will lose effectiveness around 41 degrees Fahrenheit. This doesn’t mean the heat pump doesn’t work, but it will lose efficiency. By 22 degrees, the system will most likely need a supplemental heat source to help it maintain the temperature in your home.
Conclusion
Heil heat pumps are a cost-effective solution for many homeowners. With the right model, you can drastically improve your efficiency rating, lower running costs, and save a lot of money upfront.
While you have almost a dozen models to choose from, you do have to be careful with the warranty. The lower-end models have a low warranty (1 to 3 years) that can affect your overall costs. The right sized model with the right efficiency can save you time and money up front, though, which makes Heil a worthwhile brand to install in your home.
Our Rating: (4.2 / 5)
Was This Article Helpful?
YesNo
Josh Mitchell
Founder
My name is Josh and I am obsessed with home appliances. From portable AC units to heaters and air purifiers, I enjoy testing, learning and using these devices to improve the air quality inside my family home.
(4.2 / 5)
