What Is a Heat Pump?
How heat pumps heat and cool your home by moving heat instead of making it.
The short version
A heat pump moves heat. In summer it pulls heat out of your home like an AC. In winter it runs in reverse and pulls heat from outdoor air (or the ground) into your home.
Because it moves heat rather than burning fuel, it can deliver 2–4 units of heat for every unit of electricity.
Types
Ducted air-source units connect to existing ductwork. Ductless mini-splits mount on walls, one per zone. Geothermal systems use buried loops for very steady efficiency.
Do they work in cold weather?
Modern cold-climate models keep heating efficiently below 0°F. In the coldest areas, some homes keep a furnace as backup (dual fuel).
Ready for real numbers?
Get free quotes from vetted local installers. Takes 60 seconds.