Heat Pump

Definition: A device that transfers heat from a cooler space to a warmer space using mechanical energy, effectively providing both heating and cooling.

Relevance to home energy efficiency: Heat pumps can be more energy-efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems, especially in moderate climates.

Benefits:

• Can provide both heating and cooling
• More energy-efficient than many traditional HVAC systems
• Can reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Drawbacks:

• May struggle to heat effectively in extremely cold climates
• Higher upfront cost than some traditional systems
• May require backup heating in very cold regions

Statistics: The U.S. Department of Energy states that today's heat pump systems can reduce electricity use for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric resistance heating such as furnaces and baseboard heaters.