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UTL vs VKIN: heat pump ratings compared

Against heat pumps of the same size and type, a typical UTL model beats 63% and a typical VKIN model 60%. UTL rates slightly higher overall.

Covers heat pumps sold new today (R-454B and R-32 refrigerant). See older R-410A models · Updated

UTL

63%

of similar heat pumps beaten by its typical model

Well above average

26 models listed

VKIN

60%

of similar heat pumps beaten by its typical model

Well above average

26 models listed

Rating by ratingEach bar is the share of same-size, same-type heat pumps that a typical model beats, so the two brands compare fairly even if they make different sizes.
  • Efficiency on a 5°F dayCOP at 5°FUTL: Beats 80%VKIN: Beats 57%
  • Heating power kept at 5°FCapacity at 5°F vs 47°FUTL: Beats 59%VKIN: Beats 55%
  • Winter-long heating efficiencyHSPF2UTL: Beats 75%VKIN: Beats 60%
  • Summer-long cooling efficiencySEER2UTL: Beats 69%VKIN: Beats 72%
  • Hot-day cooling efficiencyEER2UTL: Beats 42%VKIN: Beats 54%

Average (50%)Dashed outline: the other brand, for comparison

Want ranks, distributions per size class and cold-weather curves? Switch to Advanced

Rebate standards

Share of each brand’s models that meet the level. Programs can have other rules too.
  • CEE 2025

    UTL
    89%
    VKIN
    96%
  • Xcel CC

    UTL
    85%
    VKIN
    92%
  • CEE Advanced

    UTL
    12%
    VKIN
    4%
  • ENERGY STAR CC

    UTL
    100%
    VKIN
    89%

All-around best, ductless 5 tons and up

Balances heating (5°F output and efficiency, HSPF2) and cooling (SEER2, EER2), each rating against units their size.

UTL

No ductless, 5 tons and up model from UTL.

VKIN

No ductless, 5 tons and up model from VKIN.

These are certified test ratings, not a recommendation for your home. The right size comes from a load calculation by a contractor.

Next steps

The advanced view adds ranks, both brands’ models inside every size class, standout models per rating and cold-weather curves.

Open the advanced view