When it comes to buying a heat pump, you have to be a little more careful than usual. After all, getting a good heating or cooling system for your home is crucial to your well-being.

We all know that not all heat pump are created equally. So, what should you keep an out for of you when you’re on the lookout for the best? Here are some things you should look for when buying a heat pump:

1. Ratings (SEER, HSPF, dB) SEER – The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER measures the efficiency of a heat pump in cooling a home. Rule of thumb: the higher the rate, the better. HSPF – The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor works like the SEER – except that it measures heating efficiency. Also like the SEER, the higher the rate, the better. dB Rate – This stands for decibel. Low decibel rates means that the heat pump works quietly and won’t drive you up a wall with tractor-like rumbling.

2. Earth-Friendly Check for the kind of refrigerant the heat pump uses to operate. Is it ozone-friendly? Don’t support a brand that produces appliances that prove harmful to the environment.

3. Heating Efficiency Finally, check if your heat pump can withstand a rough winter. Some heat pumps are good for moderate climates but prove to be inefficient for climates with rough winters. So, make sure you ask about that, especially if you live in an area that gets really cold in the winter.