The newest home heating (and cooling) technology is the heat pump. Using technology that is similar to an air conditioner, heat pumps extract heat from one source and deposit it in another using an indoor air handler and outdoor pump unit that circulates refrigerant. Some systems extract heat from outdoor air, while ground-loop geothermal systems extract heat from the earth using a ground-loop pipe.
Above-ground heat pumps are often known as mini-split or ductless systems. Many of these systems are reversible, providing heat when the weather is cool, and air conditioning when the weather is hot. The EPA states that a heat pump can save 30% to 70% on home heating costs and 20% to 50% on home cooling costs when compared to other systems. Originally quite expensive, heat pumps have become more affordable as above-ground systems have been perfected.
Fuel sources: Heat pumps are usually powered by electricity, although natural gas models are also available.
Distribution: Heat (and cooling) are provided by wall-mounted units that blow air across evaporator coils linked to an outdoor pump that extracts or absorbs heat from the outdoors.
Advantages:
- Systems offer both heating and cooling.
- Heat pumps are extremely energy efficient.
- Individual wall units allow for precise control of each room.
- Fans are much quieter than central forced-air systems.
- No ductwork is required.
- Heat pumps are best suited for relatively mild climates.
- Installation costs are higher than ductwork systems.
