Heat Pumps & Mini-Splits
What Is Heat Pump?
Definition
A heat pump is a single system that both heats and cools by moving heat rather than generating it — pulling warmth from outside air (even cold air) into the home in winter, and reversing to pull heat out in summer, the way a refrigerator moves heat out of its cabinet. One piece of equipment replaces both a furnace and a separate AC.
Why it matters for your home
Because a heat pump moves existing heat instead of burning fuel to create it, it can deliver more heat energy than the electricity it consumes — often 2-3x — which is the core reason it usually costs less to run than electric-resistance heat and, in mild climates like ours, can compete with gas.
What to do about it
Ask any heat pump bid for its COP and HSPF2 ratings, not just "high-efficiency," and confirm whether it's sized to a load calculation for your specific home.
Related terms
This definition is pending licensed-trade technical review. It's sourced from our own published service and guide content, not invented — but hasn't yet been signed off by a licensed HVAC reviewer.
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