Do Heat Pumps Heat and Cool?
You can stay warm and cool with the right heat pump system
Highlights
Various types of heat pumps can both heat and cool your home.
The average cost of a heat pump system is between $4,235 and $7,905.
Heat pumps are energy efficient and improve home air quality.
Heat pumps aren’t as effective in below-zero temperatures as other heating systems.
There are many types of heating and cooling systems, which can make it overwhelming for homeowners searching for the best one for their home. You may have stumbled upon heat pumps and wondered, "Do heat pumps heat and cool?" The name can make you think these systems are solely for heating a home, but they are energy-efficient choices for cooling and heating. Let's examine how heat pumps work and the different types available to determine if this system is right for your home and budget.
Do Heat Pumps Heat and Cool: How Do They Work?
Yes, heat pumps can heat and cool your home using electricity to transfer heat from one area to another. So, a heat pump that heats and cools works like an air conditioner in reverse to heat your home during the cold months of winter. It transfers heat from the air or ground outside into the house. The process consists of a refrigeration cycle that absorbs the heat and uses a compressor to complete the heating process.
When the warm season hits, the heat pump cools a house like an air conditioner. It removes heat from inside the home and transfers it outside. Simply put, the refrigerant absorbs the heat from the inside air and releases it outside, which cools down the house.
How Much Does a Heat Pump Cost?
The cost of buying and installing a heat pump depends on a few factors, such as the type of pump, size, location, and labor costs. The average price range for a heat pump system is between $4,235 and $7,905.
However, it can be as low as $1,500 or as high as $12,000, depending on the type. For example, a mini-split system can cost between $1,300 and $8,000 to install, while a solar system can run between $18,000 to $39,000. So, the total price tag can vary significantly, but there are various types to choose from that may fit into your budget.
Different Types of Heat Pumps
Now that you know that heat pumps can heat and cool, you may be considering adding one to your home. There are many different types of heat pumps to choose from, but here are the most common types:
Mini-Split Ductless: This type of system does not require ductwork. The outdoor compressor cools or heats the air, which is distributed through the indoor unit to cool the residence. This is an excellent option when a traditional ducted system isn't an optimal choice.
Ducted Air-Source: This is the most commonly used type of heat pump in homes. It consists of units inside and outside the home, and it is connected to ductwork that distributes hot and cold air throughout the residence.
Hybrid Heat Pump System: This type of system uses a gas furnace and an electric heat pump to efficiently heat the home during colder months. When it's hot, the process reverses and transfers the hot air outside.
Is a Heat Pump Worth the Cost?
A heat pump can be worth the cost if you live in a climate that doesn't consistently experience below-zero temperatures. These systems can improve air quality, and you can conveniently control your heating and cooling with one system.
Since it’s energy efficient, you may also qualify for a tax credit, such as the Air Source Heat Pump Tax Credit. Plus, there are several types of systems to choose from, so you can find one that meets your heating and cooling needs and fits into your budget. To find the best system for your home, get a quote from a professional heat pump installation company near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The downsides of a heat pump are that in extremely cold climates they may not work as efficiently as other heating systems. They may require a back-up heating source. They can also be noisy, which may be an issue if installed in the wrong location like close to a bedroom window. Heat pumps can also be costly to buy and install, depending on the type of system you choose.
A heat pump can last up to 15 years, depending on whether it was installed correctly, its location, and maintenance. Conducting or hiring a professional to provide routine maintenance on your heat pump system can ensure it operates efficiently and increases its lifespan. For example, you should clean and clear away debris from your heat pump regularly.