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Heat pumps don’t create heat—they move it. A refrigerant cycles through two coils, picking up warmth from outside air in winter and releasing it indoors. In summer, the process reverses, pulling heat out of your house and sending it outside. Because the system simply transfers energy rather than generating it, you get efficient, year-round comfort without burning fuel.

With proper installation and regular upkeep, a quality heat pump typically lasts 12 to 20 years. Swap or clean filters as directed, book an annual tune-up, and tackle small repairs quickly to keep the system running smoothly. Skipping maintenance can shave years off the life span and undercut the energy savings you expect.

Heat pumps shine in areas where winter temps stay above about 40°F. Below that mark, efficiency drops, and once readings dip under 25°F you’ll want a backup heat source. Choose a model with a high Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) and budget for supplemental heat if your region sees deep freezes. That combo keeps comfort levels high without driving up utility bills.

The biggest drawbacks are the up-front price tag and lower efficiency in extreme cold. If winter temps in your area drop below 10°F, the outdoor unit can freeze, and you may need electric upgrades or duct tweaks to keep things running. Factor in these extras before you buy so the long-term savings aren’t wiped out by surprise costs.