Types of Heat Pumps

Are you in the market for a new heating and cooling system? A high-efficiency heat pump could be precisely what your home needs. It’s very common that people know less about heat pumps than they do about furnaces or air conditioners, but today’s heat pumps models can split your heating costs in half. They also supply cooling in the summer for year-round comfort from one system.

If we’ve piqued your interest, now you can learn more from the Experts at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning about the different types of heat pumps before you choose what’s best for your home.

What Makes Heat Pumps So Special?

Heat pumps are a special genre of HVAC system capable of both heating and cooling. In the summer, they work in a similar way to an AC, using electricity to remove heat from your home. In the winter, a reversing valve allows the equipment to run in reverse, drawing in heat inside to warm your home.

Apart from this dual functionality, heat pumps are known for their amazing efficiency. Because they transport heat rather than produce it from a fuel source, heat pumps can reach more than 300% efficiency. This is compared to a top mark of 98% efficiency for today’s best gas-fired furnaces. By buying a heat pump, you’re not just picking a system that increases your home’s comfort; you’re promoting sustainability and energy savings.

Three Main Types of Heat Pumps

While heat pumps have a number of subcategories, each system fits into one of these main types:

Air-source heat pumps

This is the most commonly used type of heat pump. Installation is generally simple, and these systems perform extremely well in moderate climates. Air source heat pumps utilize the ambient air as a medium for heat exchange. In other words, they draw heat from the outside air during the winter and draw heat out of your home during the summertime.

Water-source heat pumps

If your home is built close to a body of water like a lake, pond or well, a water-source heat pump could be an option. These systems leverage water as the means for heat exchange, providing another efficiency boost. While less widely used than air-source heat pumps because of the need for water nearby, these are a worthwhile option for homeowners with the ideal environmental conditions.

Ground-source or geothermal heat pumps

If you’re looking for the single most efficient climate control method offered today, ground-source or geothermal heat pumps are good systems to consider. These units function using the earth’s stable underground temperature to create consistent and extremely efficient heating and cooling. The drawback to this variety of heat pump, however, is the complexity and cost of installation, which often involves excavation to lay underground pipes.

Heat Pump Subtypes

Once you know what heat pump style you need in your home, the next step is to choose the right subtype. Your choices include:

Hybrid heat pumps

If you are in an area with dramatic temperature swings, hybrid heat pumps can give you the best of both worlds. These systems are available in two forms:

  • Combination air- and ground-source heat pumps toggle between these different ways of transferring heat, adapting to current weather conditions for the best efficiency.
  • Combination air-source heat pumps and gas furnaces mostly use the heat pump if there is mild weather. Then, when temperatures plummet, the gas-fired furnace takes over, saving energy compared to the backup electric resistance heating coils that come standard.

Solar heat pumps

Combining renewable energy with home heating and cooling is a fantastic way to reduce your energy bills and improve the environment. Solar heat pumps function using power made by solar panels, the perfect setup for environmentally conscious homeowners who still want to benefit from modern climate control.

Heat Pump Installation Options

You have even more choices for installing your heat pump:

Split-system heat pumps

This is the traditional setup for the majority of homes already outfitted with ductwork. The inside unit is commonly installed in the basement, attic or utility closet, while the outside unit is on a concrete slab in your yard.

Packaged heat pumps

In this setup, all mechanical components are placed in a single outdoor unit, often installed on the roof. This is most suitable for homes or commercial buildings lacking indoor or yard space.

H4: Ductless mini-split heat pumps

Ductless systems, also known as mini-split systems, are often used in homes and additions that are not outfitted with ductwork. Each and every room can have a dedicated indoor unit attached to a single outdoor unit, supplying targeted climate control and energy savings.

Window heat pumps

These streamlined devices are recommended for small spaces or to meet passing needs. While less efficient than other possibilities, they provide quick and uncomplicated installation.

Choose Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Your Heat Pump Needs in Fort Lauderdale

If you want to to install a heat pump, turn to the knowledgeable professionals at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. With decades of combined experience, 24/7 emergency service and a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust we’ll deliver a job well done every time. Our seasoned crew will see to it your heat pump system is modified to your needs, from installation to ongoing maintenance to occasional repairs.

Do you want to enjoy home comfort and efficiency like never before? Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for heat pump installation in Fort Lauderdale. Call 954-736-4314 today for your free, no-obligation estimate!

© 2025 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.

Chat with a Service Experts Professional