Heat pumps are basically reversible air conditioners — they move heat into the house in the winter and out in the summer. Because they move heat rather than generating it they are extremely efficient, providing up to 4 times the energy they consume. A heat pump might save you 30%-40% a year on heating costs. They can also provide domestic hot water through a hook-up.

There are two main types of heat pumps. Air-source heat pumps exchange heat between your home and the outside air, while geothermal heat pumps exchange heat between your home and the ground. Air-source systems are cheaper to install, but are less efficient and do not work well in cold climates. Geothermal heat pumps are more expensive, but they work well in all areas and the savings from increased efficiency should pay back the difference in 5-10 years.

Most heat pumps run on electricity and require indoor air ducts. If you don’t have ducts and don’t want to install them you can install a ductless mini-split heat pump. A ductless hook-up is more expensive, but may be more economical than installing air ducts.

If you have access to clean, renewable electricity then running a heat pump is carbon neutral!

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