Definition
A heat pump is an electric heating and cooling system that moves heat rather than burning fuel. In winter it pulls heat from outdoor air and delivers it indoors; in summer a reversing valve runs the refrigerant cycle backward to remove heat like an air conditioner. Heating efficiency is rated in HSPF2 and cooling efficiency in SEER2.
Also called: Air-source heat pump
Why it matters to you
Clark County and the Portland metro spend most of the year heating, and long damp winters in the 30s and 40s fall in the range where heat pumps work efficiently. For homes leaving a gas furnace or electric baseboards, one heat pump can also add the air conditioning many local houses have never had.
Practical guidance
Keep the outdoor unit clear of fir needles, leaves, moss and shrubs, and ask any installer to size the system from a load calculation rather than the old unit's size. Refrigerant, electrical and control-board work inside the cabinet is for a licensed technician.
About this definition
Written by the Home Energy Group team — a family-owned HVAC company celebrating 25 years of comfort & care across SW Washington and the Portland metro, licensed in Washington (WA LIC# HOMEEGI003J7) and Oregon (OR CCB# 184255). Definitions inform; an on-site diagnosis decides.
