A heat pump primer 

The most common types of heat pumps are air source and ground source. Air source heat pumps transfer heat from the outside air, even if it isn’t particularly warm outside. Ground source, or geothermal heat pumps, transfer heat between your home and the ground. With a lower upfront price tag, air source heat pumps are more common. 

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air source heat pumps can reduce heating use by about 65% compared with an electric furnace. 

Ducted, ductless and geothermal 

Ducted air source heat pumps are ideal for homes with existing ductwork or homes where ductwork can be feasibly added. 

Ductless heat pumps, or mini-split heat pumps, also draw heat from the outside air. They are a great solution for homes that do not have existing ductwork. 

New options on the market allow for coupling with gas or propane backup heat, which might be a good fit for your home. Ductless heat pumps can be good choice for homes with wood stoves. This can help home air quality, heat the home without gathering wood and provide air conditioning in warmer months. 

Geothermal heat pumps transfer heat from the ground to your home. They are even more efficient than air source heat pumps, reducing energy use by 70% to 80%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. They can also heat water for use in the home, which saves on water heating costs. 

Before buying a heat pump, compare equipment ratings. The higher the rating, the more efficient the equipment.

BACKUP HEAT: CAUTION! 

Most heat pump systems are installed with a backup or auxiliary heat for cold weather. 

For some heat pumps, turning up the thermostat too quickly or too high can trigger the backup heat—which could be costly. This is why you should not change settings more than one degree in heat mode with a heat pump. Typically, your thermostat will display emergency or auxiliary heat when using this feature.

MIRANDA BOUTELLE writes on energy efficiency for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.