Table of Contents
- What Are Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat Heat Pumps?
- What Are Mitsubishi Standard Heat Pumps?
- Performance Comparison
- Efficiency Comparison
- Installation Complexity
- Which One Should You Choose?
- Conclusion
At CES Heating & Cooling, we understand that finding the ideal heat pump for your home involves comparing features, performance, and suitability for your climate. Mitsubishi’s Hyper-Heat and standard heat pumps both provide impressive heating and cooling capabilities, but they serve different purposes based on temperature needs and efficiency. Here, we’ll break down each system in detail to help you make an informed choice.
What Are Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat Heat Pumps?
Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat heat pumps are specially designed for colder climates. Unlike standard heat pumps, Hyper-Heat units operate at nearly full capacity even in freezing conditions, with heating output down to -13°F at 90% capacity, and down to -5°F at 100% capacity. For instance, a 24,000 BTU Hyper-Heat unit can provide up to 30,600 BTUs at 47°F and 25,000 BTUs at 5°F, delivering superior performance in frigid weather.
How Do Hyper-Heat Units Operate in Cold Temperatures?
Hyper-Heat units incorporate unique engineering to perform efficiently in freezing climates:
- These units are built with larger coils, increasing surface area to capture more ambient heat, even at low temperatures.
- An integrated accumulator with a capillary tube and a two-way solenoid valve precisely regulates refrigerant flow, increasing discharge gas pressure to transfer more heat indoors.
In short, these advanced features allow Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat units to deliver impressive heat in extremely low temperatures, making them an excellent choice for homeowners in colder regions.
What Are Mitsubishi Standard Heat Pumps?
The Mitsubishi Standard Heat Pump differs from the Hyper Heat model because it performs similarly to how other inverter heat pumps operate. It begins to lose capacity the colder it gets. Typically, standard mini split inverter heat pumps can produce heating and cooling super efficiently in moderate temperatures. Once the temperature reaches the freezing point, inverter heat pumps become more inefficient the colder it gets. This rule holds true for Mitsubishi’s standard heat pumps as well. The Mitsubishi Standard Heat Pump can operate down to ~0 F without shutting off; however, it begins to suffer with producing heat the further below 32 F the temperature goes.
Let’s take a Mitsubishi 24,000 BTU standard multi-zone outdoor heat pump unit as an example. At 47 F it can efficiently heat your home, producing up to 30,600 BTU, well above its rating. However, when the temperature drops to 5 F, the same 24,000 BTU outdoor unit will only produce 19,000 BTUs. This means your outdoor unit will be working its very hardest to only output 79% of what it’s rated for.
If you were to exclude the cold climate performance factor, modern-day standard inverter heat pumps, especially Mitsubishi heat pumps, are super efficient and quiet. Mitsubishi has engineered best-in-industry heat pumps that have a long mechanical life, are whisper-quiet, and are extremely efficient. Other brands might boast higher efficiency ratings but suffer at other important things like longevity evity: Mitsubishi has found a way to balance it all.
Performance Comparison: Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat vs. Standard Heat Pumps
The performance difference between Hyper-Heat and standard Mitsubishi heat pumps is most noticeable in cold climates. To illustrate, let’s compare the MXZ-3C30NAHZ4 Hyper-Heat model and the MXZ-3C30NA4 standard model in terms of heating capacity, noise level, electrical requirements, and efficiency.
Heating Capacity in Cold Climates (Non-Ducted Indoors)
Temperature | MXZ-3C30NA4 Standard | MXZ-3C30NAHZ4 Hyper-Heat |
---|---|---|
47°F | 36,000 BTU | 36,000 BTU |
17°F | 21,000 BTU | 28,600 BTU |
5°F | 19,800 BTU | 28,600 BTU |
-13°F | Not Available | 26,400 BTU |
Quiet Operation
Both models provide quiet operation, although Hyper-Heat units operate at a slightly higher decibel level due to the powerful components needed to perform in cold temperatures.
Operation Mode | MXZ-3C30NA4 Standard | MXZ-3C30NAHZ4 Hyper-Heat |
---|---|---|
Cooling Sound Pressure Level | 52 dB | 54 dB |
Heating Sound Pressure Level | 56 dB | 58 dB |
Electrical Usage
Due to its higher performance capabilities, the Hyper-Heat unit requires a larger circuit and breaker size.
Specification | MXZ-3C30NA4 Standard | MXZ-3C30NAHZ4 Hyper-Heat |
---|---|---|
Recommended Breaker Size | 25 AMPS | 40 AMPS |
Minimum Circuit Ampacity | 22.1 AMPS | 31.5 AMPS |
Efficiency Comparison
Efficiency is critical when evaluating HVAC systems. Mitsubishi measures efficiency using SEER, EER, HSPF, and COP ratings.
Rating | MXZ-3C30NA4 Standard | MXZ-3C30NAHZ4 Hyper-Heat |
---|---|---|
SEER2 | 19.0 | 18.0 |
EER2 | 10.6 | 12.5 |
HSPF2 | 10.0 | 10.0 |
COP @ 47°F | 3.9 | 4.0 |
COP @ 5°F | 1.87 | 1.95 |
Energy Star Certified | No | Yes |
Installation Complexity
Installation requirements for both units are similar. However, Hyper-Heat models may require a branch box for multi-zone units starting at 36,000 BTU, while standard units need it at 48,000 BTU. Installation by experienced professionals is crucial to ensure optimal performance and avoid costly mistakes.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between a Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat unit and a standard heat pump largely depends on your climate and backup heating options:
- Hyper-Heat: Ideal for homes in regions with prolonged freezing temperatures, or for homes without backup heating systems.
- Standard Heat Pump: Suitable for mild climates where temperatures rarely drop below 30°F, or for homes with a secondary heating source like a boiler.
Conclusion
Both Mitsubishi Hyper-Heat and standard heat pumps provide exceptional comfort and efficiency. At CES Heating & Cooling, we’re here to guide you through the selection process and ensure you get the best system for your home’s specific needs. Contact us to discuss your options and find the perfect solution for year-round comfort.
Bane and the crew from Casacade Energy Services did an excellent, professional installation of our new Trane furnace (nice and quiet!), along with a house surge protector and earthquake cutoff mechanism for our gas line. Bill was courteous, knowledgeable and very helpful. Also, his office staff helped us through all the warranty work and helped answer questions about rebates. We couldn't ask for a better experience. We will be using them for the annual furnace check up. Thanks, Bill and crew!