Heat pump technology has been around for more than 50 years, but only recently has the rise in energy costs and concerns about energy conservation led to the development of reliable, energy efficient heat pumps designed for residential heating and coooling. Heat pumps initially marketed for residential use relied largely on compressors and other components designed for use in air conditioners. These parts were not up to the task of meeting the heavier demands place on them by a heat pump.
Since then, heavier duty components designed specifically for use in residential heat pumps have made heat pumps not only more energy efficient, but more reliable as well. Innovations in heat pump technology continue to increase the efficiency and reliability of heat pump systems.
Ground source heat pumps (also called geothermal heat pumps) are the most energy efficient type of heat pump, but the relatively high cost of installation of a ground source heat pump has deterred many homeowners. Dual source heat pumps have been designed that combine the attributes of ground source heat pumps and air source heat pumps. These units are almost as efficient as a ground source heat pump, but much less expensive to install.
Multi-speed compressors allow heat pumps to operate at slower speeds when the demand for heating or cooling is moderate, using less energy and saving wear and tear on the system. Scroll compressors have been developed that are more reliable and operate more quietly and efficiently than piston driven compressors. Variable speed fans operate more quietly than single speed fans and do a better job of dehumidifying the air which makes the home more comfortable.
