Learn About Heat Pumps

As the world seeks to curb carbon emissions and promote sustainable living, heat pumps have become a compelling alternative to traditional methods of heating homes. Unlike traditional systems that burn fossil fuels, heat pumps use renewable energy from the environment, such as air, geothermal heat, or water, for heating. This method safely transfers heat between locations, is inexpensive to operate, and reduces environmental impact.

How Heat Pumps Work

Heat pumps use a coolant with a boiling point as low as -30 to -40°C (-22 to -40°F). Even in winter, it absorbs heat from the outdoors and transfers that heat indoors to heat the building. In the summer, some heat pumps work in reverse, effectively cooling the building by pushing heat outside.

Of the various types of heat pumps, the most suitable for home use are those that absorb heat from the outdoor air. They use fans to blow warm air into the home or heat water for radiators and floor heating. These air-source heat pumps also provide cooling in the summer, making them ideal for homes in warmer climates. Other heat pumps use heat from pipes buried underground or from bodies of water.

Energy Efficiency and Conservation

Natural gas supply pressures and rising gas prices have put home heating in the spotlight for efficiency and energy independence. Although they still use electricity, heat pumps are about 30% more efficient than traditional furnaces. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that a household can save between $200 and $1,300 per year, depending on the system being replaced. In Europe, where natural gas is the primary source of heating, higher gas prices mean even greater savings for heat pump users. Combining heat pumps with solar or wind power can further reduce carbon emissions and create off-grid systems.

Not only are heat pumps cheaper to maintain (only requiring a professional inspection every 3-5 years), but they are also safer, more reliable, and last longer than traditional furnaces.

Challenges

While heat pumps have many advantages, there are some disadvantages. Most notable is the initial cost, which can be twice as much as a traditional furnace. Air-source heat pumps are the most affordable, making them best suited for residential use. In contrast, geothermal and water systems require more extensive outdoor installations, making them better suited for large office, industrial, or apartment buildings.

In the past, heat pumps have struggled to perform in cold climates. However, recent technological advances have allowed them to operate efficiently even at temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F). Concerns about the sustainability of the refrigerants used also persist.

Government initiatives

Government commitments to carbon neutrality have led to various incentives to encourage households to adopt more efficient technologies. In the United States, low- and middle-income households can receive rebates on efficient appliances such as heat pumps. The US government also announced in April a grant to promote domestic heat pump manufacturing, aiming to make clean energy solutions more affordable and accessible while increasing the country’s energy independence.

Similarly, most European countries offer subsidies for homes retrofitted with heat pumps, and some of them also include new homes in the subsidy scope. Some countries are preparing to ban the use of oil and gas furnaces in new homes by 2025.