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What Is the Meaning of Heat Pump? A Simple Definition

What Is the Meaning of Heat Pump? A Simple Definition

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A heat pump is a home comfort system that moves heat instead of making it. In winter it pulls heat from outdoors and brings it inside. In summer it runs in reverse and moves indoor heat outside. Because it transfers heat rather than generating it, it can be very efficient.

Key takeaways

The easy analogy

Think about a refrigerator. A fridge moves heat out of the box to keep food cold. A heat pump is a reversible refrigerator for your house. In cooling, it moves heat from indoors to outdoors. In heating, it flips and moves outdoor heat indoors.

How a heat pump works

In cooling mode, the indoor coil absorbs heat from your rooms and the outdoor coil releases it outside. In heating mode, the outdoor coil absorbs heat from outside air and the indoor coil releases it indoors. Refrigerant carries the heat between the two coils through sealed lines. The compressor raises the refrigerant’s pressure and temperature so the transfer is effective, and the indoor blower moves air across the coil. A reversing valve switches the direction for heating or cooling.

What you get in a typical setup

Most homes have one outdoor unit and an indoor coil with a blower that connects to ducts. Homes without ducts can use wall-mounted mini splits. The system runs on electricity and uses the same hardware all year.

Main types

Why people choose heat pumps

Limits to keep in mind

Do heat pumps need filters

Yes. Ducted heat pumps use a return air filter just like a furnace. The filter protects the blower and indoor coil and helps reduce dust and allergens. Use the exact size your system is built for and follow the unit label for installation. Check monthly and replace about every 1 to 3 months based on use.

Choosing a MERV level

Get High Quality Furnace Filters the Easy Way from Filterbuy

Filterbuy makes USA-made pleated filters in MERV 8, 11, and 13, with standard and custom sizes for a snug fit. You can add Odor Eliminator with activated carbon for household smells. Fast, free shipping and Auto Delivery help you stay on schedule.

A heat pump is an efficient, all-in-one way to heat and cool your home. Keep it performing with the right Filterbuy return filter and on-time replacements.

FAQs

What is a heat pump?

A heat pump is a home system that moves heat instead of making it. It heats in winter and cools in summer with the same unit.

How does a heat pump work?

It circulates refrigerant between an outdoor unit and an indoor coil. A compressor and a reversing valve let it move heat in or out of the house.

Does a heat pump work in cold weather?

Yes, modern models work in cold climates, though output drops as temperatures fall. Cold-climate models keep better performance.

How is a heat pump different from a furnace?

A furnace makes heat by burning fuel or using electric heat strips. A heat pump moves existing heat and is often more efficient.

Is a heat pump the same as an air conditioner?

In summer it works like an AC. In winter it reverses to provide heating.

Do heat pumps need air filters?

Yes. Ducted heat pumps use a return filter like a furnace to protect the blower and indoor coil and to help indoor air quality.

What filter should I use with a heat pump?

Use the exact size your system requires. Choose MERV 8 for standard dust, MERV 11 for pets or allergy concerns, or MERV 13 only if your system maintains healthy airflow.

How often should I change the filter?

Check monthly and replace about every 1 to 3 months. Change sooner with pets, heavy dust, or smoke events.

Are heat pumps expensive to run?

Costs depend on your local electric rates, climate, and settings. Many homes see savings because heat pumps move heat rather than make it.

Can a heat pump use my current ducts?

Usually yes if the ducts are in good condition and sized for the airflow. A contractor can confirm and make any needed adjustments.

How long does a heat pump last?

Many last 12 to 15 years or more with correct sizing, installation, and maintenance.

Where can I get replacement filters?

Filterbuy offers USA-made pleated filters in MERV 8, 11, and 13 with standard and custom sizes, fast free shipping, and Auto Delivery to keep changes on time.