Types of Heat Pumps

Are you searching for a new heating and cooling system? An extremely efficient heat pump could be exactly what your home needs. It’s very common that people know less about heat pumps than they do about furnaces or air conditioners, but new, energy-efficient models can split your heating costs in half. They also offer cooling in the warm months for year-round comfort from a single system.

If we’ve piqued your interest, now you can learn more from the Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing about the many types of heat pumps before you decide what’s best for your home.

What Makes Heat Pumps So Special?

Heat pumps are a unique type of HVAC system able to produce heating and cooling. In the summertime, they work in a similar way to an AC, using electricity to remove heat from your home. In the winter, a reversing valve enables the equipment to run in reverse, drawing in heat inside to warm up your home.

Apart from this dual functionality, heat pumps are praised for their impressive efficiency. Because they move heat rather than create it from a fuel source, heat pumps can achieve more than 300% efficiency. This contrasts with a top mark of 98% efficiency for modern gas-fired furnaces. By buying a heat pump, you’re not just picking a system that increases your home’s comfort; you’re promoting sustainability and energy savings.

Three Main Types of Heat Pumps

Even though heat pumps have several subcategories, each one fits into one of these main types:

Air-source heat pumps

This is the most commonly used type of heat pump. Installation is typically uncomplicated, and these systems perform extremely well in moderate climates. Air source heat pumps utilize the ambient air as a channel for heat exchange. In other words, they draw heat from the outside air during the wintertime and take heat out of your home during the summer.

Water-source heat pumps

If your home is built near a body of water like a lake, pond or well, a water-source heat pump could be an option. These systems use water as the method for heat exchange, offering another efficiency boost. While less widely used than air-source heat pumps because of the need for water close to the home, these are a worthwhile option for homeowners with the suitable environmental conditions.

Ground-source or geothermal heat pumps

If you want the single most efficient climate control method offered today, ground-source or geothermal heat pumps are good systems to consider. These systems tap into the earth’s stable underground temperature to create consistent and extremely efficient heating and cooling. The downside to this variety of heat pump, however, is the complexity and expense of installation, which often involves excavation to lay underground pipes.

Heat Pump Subtypes

After you decide what heat pump style you need in your home, the next step is to choose the right subtype. Your choices include:

Hybrid heat pumps

If you are in an area with significant temperature swings, hybrid heat pumps can provide the best of both worlds. These heat pumps are offered in two forms:

  • Combination air- and ground-source heat pumps toggle between these two methods of operation, changing with current weather conditions for optimum efficiency.
  • Combination air-source heat pumps and gas furnaces depend on the heat pump during mild weather. Then, when temperatures plummet, the gas-fired furnace kicks in, conserving energy compared to the backup electric resistance heating coils that come standard.

Solar heat pumps

Merging green energy with home heating and cooling is a fantastic way to slash your energy bills and improve the environment. Solar heat pumps function using power made by solar panels, the perfect setup for eco-conscious homeowners who still want to benefit from modern climate control.

Heat Pump Installation Options

You have even more choices for setting up your heat pump:

Split-system heat pumps

This is the standard setup for the majority of homes already outfitted with ductwork. The interior unit is commonly installed in the basement, attic or utility closet, while the outdoor unit sits on a concrete slab in your yard.

Packaged heat pumps

In this type of installation, all mechanical elements are placed in a single outdoor unit, often installed on the roof. This is ideal for homes or commercial buildings lacking indoor or yard space.

H4: Ductless mini-split heat pumps

Ductless systems, also called mini-split systems, are often used in homes and additions where ductwork isn’t present. Each room can have a dedicated indoor unit attached to a single outdoor unit, offering targeted climate control and energy savings.

Window heat pumps

These streamlined units are ideal for small spaces or to meet short-term needs. While less efficient than other possibilities, they provide quick and straightforward installation.

Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Your Heat Pump Needs in the U.S.

If you want to to install a heat pump, choose the certified team at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. With decades of combined experience, 24/7 emergency service and a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can rest easy knowing you’ll get a job well done every time. Our seasoned technicians will ensure your heat pump system is modified to your needs, from installation to ongoing maintenance to occasional repairs.

Prepared to experience home comfort and efficiency like never before? Contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for heat pump installation in the U.S.. Call 866-397-3787 today for your free, no-obligation estimate!

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