Top 5 Single-Stage Heat Pumps Review and Buying Guide

Exploring top 5 single-stage heat pumps. According to Carrier “heat pump is a smart alternative to an air conditioner”, and we will add, to a furnace too - because heat pumps are designed and used as a complete HVAC system for heating, cooling, ventilating and dehumidifying. And models are ultra-efficient systems - definitely worth considering.

This article is about top single-stage heat pumps that are qualified as a “better” solution in categories such as “best, better and good”, marked by the manufacturers.

Single-stage heat pumps are HVAC products that are design with the single-stage compressors that operate with the maximum power, at full blast. Better and more expensive models are equipped with two-stage compressors allowing them to operate at the full power during cold days or at lower level when it is warmer. The best and most expensive are models with variable speed which can operate at different levels.

Single-stage units are cheaper while two-stage cost less to operate, running more often and dehumidify better. It is recommended to compare the costs and benefits, as the benefits of the advanced heat pumps might be insignificant as it depends on the climate zone where you live. Check out the pros and cons and differences between single-stage and compressors with the variable speed.

Top 5 single-stage heat pumps

Comparison

Carrier

Carrier Infinity 15
photo: Carrier

One of the best single-stage heat pumps from the well-known name in HVAC industry, Carrier, is Infinity 15 heat pump, model 25HNB5, coming from the Infinity Series and qualified as the Better solution.

With the cooling efficiency of 16 SEER and heating efficiency of 8.5 HSPF, 25HNB5 is qualified as the Energy Star model. As the best single-stage model from Carrier, Infinity 15 is the unit with the capacity from 1.5-5 tons, which is equipped with the WeatherArmor Ultra protection, compressor sound blanket and Silencer System II design, allowing great protection from the elements and great noise level of 68 dBA. The HybridHeat feature makes it compatible with the dual-fuel system for usage with the suitable oil or gas furnaces. The advanced diagnostic system allows convenient troubleshooting… while the 10-year warranty allows worry-free usage.

Lennox

Lennox SL18XP1
photo: Lennox

Lennox manufacturer has several models available with the single-stage compressor, and one of the top ones is SL18XP1, advertised as “the quietest and most efficient single-stage heat pump you can buy”.

As the previous Carrier model, Lennox SL18XP1 is also Energy Star approved, but it comes with the higher efficiency ratings; SEER cooling efficiency rating is up to 18.5 and HSPF heating efficiency is up to 10.2. The model is part of the Dave Lennox Signature Collection – a series of the best models from Lennox.

Lennox SL18XP1 provides more flexibility with its capability to use electricity and gas furnace, and also due to its solar-ready design, allowing combination with the solar heating system, for even more savings. The iComfort technology makes the unit compatible with the smart thermostat for the enhanced comfort, also allowing advanced diagnostics for easier troubleshooting. SilentComfort technology which incorporates a special fan blade design, thicker insulation and vibration reduction, brings the noise level to 65 dBA, which is quieter than the above Carrier model.

Trane

Trane XL16i
photo: Trane

Trane XL16i is the top single-stage heat pump from this manufacturer and it comes with the SEER rating of up to 17 and HSPF rating of up to 9.6 which is better than the Carrier 25HNB5 model but lower than Lennox SL18XP1, and considered as the high efficient unit. As the above models, and thanks to the features such as WeatherGuard and DuraTuff non-corrosive basepan, the heat pump last longer even if exposed to harsh weather. The XL16i has the longer warranty on the compressor – 12 years, and 10 year on other parts, than the above models. What sets the company apart from other manufacturers is its long history of over 120 years in HVAC industry.

Amana

Amana ASZ16
photo: Amana

Amana ASZ16 heat pump comes with the 16-SEER cooling rating and HSPF of 9.0 which is very close to most of the above models still providing great comfort and savings. With the Copeland ComfortAlert diagnostic module, Amana ASZ16 can be remotely control so any problem can be detected on time therefore resulting in an uninterrupted and reliable operation.

The installed accumulator allows the use of the unit even during the low and freezing outside temperatures. The model does not have as low noise level as the above models, it goes up to 76 decibels. The greatest part of the offer is the limited lifetime unit replacement and 10-year warranty protection, which is one of the best in the industry.

Armstrong

Armstrong 4SHP14LE
photo: Armstrong

Armstrong 4SHP14LE is coming from the manufacturer with the 80-year long tradition. The model uses the single-stage scroll compressor and MHT Technology or heat transfer system, allowing better heat transmission with up to 15.0 SEER and 8.5 HSPF rating.

It is Dual-Fuel compatible, to use both electricity and gas furnace, for even better efficiency and comfort. The manufacturer provides 10-year warranty on compressor and 5+5 years on all parts. The noise level goes up to 80 decibels.

Summary

As it can be seen from above, all models are Energy Star compliant but have different energy efficiency ratings and noise levels, which for some homeowners can be significant. The best single-stage heat pumps utilize advanced features and are coming from the reliable company that has the longest warranty and awesome service network.