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Home > Contractors > Infographic: How a Heat Pump Air Conditioner Works

Infographic: How a Heat Pump Air Conditioner Works

Brad Hess
by Brad Hess | Apr. 21, 2020

People sometimes ask what is a heat pump and how they work. Heat pumps are simply central air conditioners that provide cooling in the summer and heating in the winter. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, roughly 12.1 million households use heat pump systems to heat and cool their homes. Most of them are located in hot-humid or mixed-humid areas with mild winters, where heat pumps work best.

Although only about 10 percent of U.S. households use heat pumps, the number is growing fast as new builders opt for a more energy-efficient system. It’s important for HVAC contractors to learn and understand how they work, especially as they become more popular.

Here’s a basic overview that will help you better understand how a heat pump works:

How heat pumps work

Now that you know how heat pumps work, get to know the individual components, from suction accumulators to heat exchangers. Familiarize yourself with the maintenance and upkeep of heat pump systems, and you’ll be better prepared to service a growing number of homes in the U.S. Check out our Rebate Finder tool to help you and your customers find the best price.


Read Next: The Basics of Suction Accumulators in Home Heat Pump Systems

suction accumulators

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One thought on “Infographic: How a Heat Pump Air Conditioner Works”

  1. Tom Brooks on Jan. 12, 2024 at 4:15 am said:

    Great overview of how heat pump air conditioners work! The statistics on their increasing use, especially in hot-humid areas, are interesting. As a homeowner, I appreciate the clear explanation and the emphasis on HVAC contractors staying informed. The breakdown of individual components and the Rebate Finder tool are practical additions. Looking forward to more insightful content!

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