What is a heat pump?

So, what is a heat pump? The heat pump is part of the home heating and cooling system and is installed outdoors. Just like air conditioning like central air conditioning, it can cool your house, but it can also provide heat. In cold months, the heat pump absorbs heat from the cold outdoor air and transfers it indoors, while in warm months it absorbs heat from the indoor air to cool your house. They are powered by electricity and use a refrigerant to transfer heat to provide year-round comfort. Because they are responsible for both cooling and heating, homeowners may not need to install separate systems to heat their homes. In cold climates, electric tropics can be added to the indoor fan coil for additional functionality. Heat pumps do not burn fossil fuels like furnaces, so they are more environmentally friendly.

What types of heat pumps are available

The two most common types of heat pumps are air sources and ground sources. Air source heat pumps transfer heat between indoor air and outdoor air, and are more popular in residential heating and cooling.

Ground source heat pumps, sometimes known as geothermal heat pumps, transfer heat between indoor air and outdoor ground. These units are more expensive to install, but are generally more efficient and cheaper to operate due to consistent ground temperatures throughout the year.

How does the heat pump work

How does the heat pump work? The heat pump transfers heat from one place to another through different air or heat sources. An air source heat pump transfers heat between indoor air and outdoor air, while a ground source heat pump (called a ground source heat pump) transfers heat between indoor air and outdoor ground. We will focus on air source heat pumps, but the basic operation of both is the same.

Where the heat pump works best

Homeowners who need new heating or cooling systems can consider the type of climate they live in before purchasing a heat pump system. Heat pumps are more common in temperate climates, where temperatures usually do not drop below freezing. In cooler areas, they can also be used in conjunction with stoves for energy-efficient heating on all but the coldest days. When the outdoor temperature is too low and the heat pump fails to operate effectively, the system will turn to a furnace to generate heat. Such systems are commonly known as dual fuel systems —— which is very energy efficient and cost effective.