Electric heat pumps are the best solution for one's home heating and cooling needs, as heat pumps save as much as 30% on heating costs when compared to a gas furnace and also provide year-round comfort. A good-quality electric heat pump provides a continuous flow of heat and an even temperature, whereas gas furnaces mostly blast certain areas with heat, causing uncomfortable hot spots. Additionally, an electric heat pump does not have an open flame and reduces the possibility of fuel leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning.

There are three types of electric heat pumps one can choose from: air source, dual-fuel and geothermal electric heat pumps. Air source electric heat pumps are the most common type of heat pump, and are further divided into packaged heat pumps and split-system heat pumps. Packaged heat pumps allow the compressor and heat exchangers to be located outside your home, using ductwork to heat and cool your entire home. Split-system heat pumps allow more flexibility for installation, as the indoor air-handling unit and heat exchanger are separate from the compressor and the outdoor exchanger. The heating efficiency of an air source heat pump is measured as the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF), and ranges from 6.6 to 9.1, whereas the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) indicates the cooling efficiency and generally falls between 10.0 and 15.0.

A dual-fuel heat pump acts like a gas furnace and circulates heat evenly throughout your home. Although dual-fuel heat pumps are costlier than conventional heating and cooling systems, they are also the most efficient, versatile, and economical heating and cooling systems. Geothermal electric heating systems circulate water or refrigerant between an underground network of pipes and heat pumps located inside the house. They are much more durable, comfortable, environmentally safe, non-allergenic and cleaner than the conventional methods of heating.
 

Source： Heat Pump