Wouldn’t it be great to have a single device for heating, as well as cooling your house? Well, a heat pump is what you need!
Here, we have compiled an in-depth review list of the best heat pumps available in the market. We have also created a buyer's guide to help you make the correct buying decision.
So, read on!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Heat Pumps
- OUR TOP PICK: Hayward HP21404T
- RUNNER-UP: Goodman Goodman 3 Ton 14 SEER
- BEST MINI-SPLIT HEAT PUMP FOR COLD WEATHER: PIONEER Air Conditioner Pioneer Mini Split Heat Pump
- BEST MINI-SPLIT HEAT PUMP: 18k BTU 19 SEER MrCool Advantage Ductless Heat Pump
- BEST HEAT PUMP WATER HEATER: Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater
Comparison of the Best Heat Pumps
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What is a Heat Pump?
Keeping it simple, reliable heat pumps can provide to a lot of comfort in your living space. Heat pumps have been designed to perform as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) units.
The basic working includes taking heat out of the air (in a particular space) and then transferring it to another vicinity. This means that a heat pump can help you control your house’s environment throughout the year.
During summer (or the warmer months), such a pump will remove the heat present in your house and direct it outside. During winter (or the cooler months), this same device will absorb heat from the outside and release it inside your house.
How Does a Heat Pump Work?
To properly answer how a heat pump works, we have to dive a bit deeper into the details and technicalities of it all. You should keep in mind that when it comes to a mechanical heat pump, you can think of it as an inside-out refrigerator.
Such a pump, similar to a fridge, also makes use of a refrigerant. For those wondering, a refrigerant is a volatile fluid that’s highly condensing and evaporating.
By compressing this particular fluid, a heat pump makes it hotter on the side that needs to be warmed. The pressure is released on the side where the heat is being absorbed.
The refrigeration cycle (vapor-compression) of a pump includes:
- Condenser
- Expansion Value
- Evaporator
- Compressor
What Does a Heat Pump Do?
You will find heat pumps being used in several domestic settings. Let’s go over what a heat pump can help you with!
HVAC
Of course, such a pump is supposed to help with your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. You can select how this device will work. This means you have the power over whether or not you want to warm up space or cool it.
Better Air Flow
The ventilation offered by such a unit can help make your living quarters more comfortable.
Heats Water
Yes, you can use such a device to warm up water, too. Such a pump can even be made to heat (or pre-heat) swimming pools.
Heat Districts
Such pumps are known to be integrated into heating systems used by districts.
Energy Efficiency
Heat pumps are an efficient way to control energy consumption and become more environmentally conscious.
What Size of Heat Pump Do I Need?
The answer to what size of heat pump you need is dependent on numerous factors. However, an average house can make do with a unit that has an output between 4 kW and 16 kW. Of course, the basic rule is a bigger heat pump is needed for larger homes.
Hayward HP21404T
Normally, a two-bed house will require a pump with 5-4 kW. A well-insulated five-bed house will need a unit with an output of 15-16 kW.
Other factors to keep in mind include:
- The area you’re living in
- Level of insulation the house has
- Temperature levels you prefer
- The size of underfloor heating
To get the best estimates, it’s important to reach out to a professional heat pump installer.
How to Choose a Heat Pump
When you begin browsing for a heat pump to buy, you’ll come across many different models. That’s why you should know what makes a certain unit better than the other.
When choosing a heat pump, do go over:
The SEER
SEER stands for Season Energy Efficiency Ratio. You should know that a higher SEER means the system is more efficient. Units with a higher SEER will help you save energy costs.
The Stages
If a unit is single-stage, it denotes the said model is either on or off. This means when the desired temperature is met, the unit will shut itself down.
With two-stage, the model can operate at a lower capacity and then switch to giving 100% when required.
A multi-stage unit happens to be most energy-efficient.
The Thermostat
There are heat pumps featuring thermostats that can be operated (through Wi-Fi) when you aren't even home. Certain models use displays that are high-end. So, it depends on what level of heat pump convenience and control you require.
The Noise
A good heat pump is one that isn't too loud. If you have kids around, opting for a noisy unit isn't the best choice.
The Warranty
Units that come with warranties give you some relief because you will be purchasing from a company you can trust.
Quick Take: Best Heat Pumps
These are our recommendations for the best heat pumps:
Review of the Best Heat Pumps
Let’s begin our best heat pumps review list. As always, we went over what recent buyers have shared, the unit’s pros and cons, and a lot more.
Best Overall:
Hayward HP21404T
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many recent buyers have reported being happy with this particular heat pump. Several buyers have shared how they bought this unit to heat their swimming pool. They were pleased to report that it was able to heat up the water in minutes. Buyers also liked how silently this pump operated.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We decided to open our review list with this unit because of many reasons. We liked how the 140,000 BTUs makes it a reliable investment for those with larger living spaces. The Ultra-Gold Corrosion Resistance helps it to be highly durable. Of course, the fan isn’t noisy. The noise is further decreased because of the acoustic compressor cover.
Who Will Use This Most
In our opinion, this model is great for anyone who wants to control temperatures in large spaces. Other than that, it’s also a great choice for those who own a pool and wish to preheat it before taking a swim. The silent operation makes it great for those who don’t wish to annoy their neighbors.
Bottom Line
This heat pump from Hayward has a lot going for it. Not only is it capable of being used for larger homes, but it also doesn't make a lot of noise during operation. It can easily be used to heat big swimming pools. The overall corrosion-resistant construction ensures this unit continues to serve you well down the line.
Runner-up:
Goodman Goodman 3-Ton 14 SEER
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have shared positive feedback about this unit. All of them appreciated the limited ten-year warranty being offered by this pump. They liked how the warranty made them feel they could rely on the manufacturer. Many of them also liked the 14 SEER rating to help lower their yearly energy costs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Certain benefits offered by this unit helped it be the runner-up on this list. The overall construction is quite durable. You won’t have to worry about it not being able to survive bumps and bruises. The installation process is easy. The fan isn’t too noisy. Also, the 14 SEER is something that can benefit many households.
Who Will Use This Most
Due to the BTU levels being offered, this unit can be useful for people with small to mid-sized houses. It won't take up a lot of space. So, people who don't have much to spare should consider this unit. It's also not tough to use. The fan is silent enough not to annoy your neighbors or disturb the kids sleeping in the house.
Bottom Line
This model from Goodman lets you know you can trust it. The limited ten-year warranty is something we can't ignore. The company will have your back for at least a decade if something goes wrong. Other than that, the durable construction makes it an excellent investment to improve the comfort of your home.
Best Mini-Split Heat Pump for Cold Weather:
PIONEER Air Conditioner Pioneer Mini-Split Heat Pump
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The overall consensus has been quite positive for this unit. Many buyers liked the 12000 BTUs offered by this model. For them, it was perfect for controlling the temperature in their small to mid-sized homes. Several buyers appreciated how it was able to operate in colder months without giving much trouble.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We decided to designate this unit as one of the best because, in our opinion, it can serve you well during winter. The compressor will continue to work in low temperatures, so the indoors of your house remains warm and cozy. Other than that, it doesn't produce a lot of noise during operation. The compressor is constructed with highly durable materials.
Who Will Use This Most
As mentioned in this list, this is a model you can benefit from if you are living in a cold area. The 12000 BTUs means you can easily go ahead and install this model in a small to a mid-sized house. The wireless remote control makes it very convenient for you to control the temperature of your living space.
Bottom Line
This particular heat pump from Pioneer comes with everything you need to install it in your house. Once installed, it is hassle-free to use because of the wireless remote control. The compressor is resilient and will continue to work outside in cold weather. It’s a great option to know about for those interested in a 12000 BTU capacity model.
Best Mini-Split Heat Pump:
18k BTU 19 SEER MrCool Advantage Ductless Heat Pump
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
As far as recent buyers are concerned, many of them liked the SEER 19 rating this unit boasts. They liked how it was able to help them save some money on their yearly energy bill. Several users of this model liked the design and durable construction. They also appreciated the warranties it came with.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A reason this unit stood out to us is the SEER 19 rating. This unit can help you save on energy expenses while you keep your house as comfortable as you want. This model is meant to be used throughout the year. The wireless remote control adds to the convenience. The construction, including the fin, is resistant to corrosion.
Who Will Use This Most
We would recommend this heating model to anyone in the market looking for a mini-split heat pump that's still quite powerful. The 18000 BTUs being offered by this unit are great for temperature control in smaller living spaces. People who want reliable warranties should also look at this unit. It can work for server rooms, gaming rooms, and even greenhouses.
Bottom Line
Opting for a smaller heat pump isn't a bad idea when it comes to the type of requirements you have. This model has been designed for smaller living spaces. It's capable of offering cooling (or warmth) all year round. Also, it's easy to install and use. The wireless remote makes it highly convenient for everyone.
Best Heat Pump Water Heater:
Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
For many recent buyers of this heating pump, it ended up being the best purchase they had made for the comfort of their home. Many of them liked how easy it was for them to install. Several people appreciated how it didn’t take up too much space. They also found it convenient to control for heating the water to their preferred levels.
Why it Stands Out to Us
In our opinion, this heating unit from Stiebel Eltron stands out for numerous reasons. The German-patented Advanced Flow Control technology is undoubtedly impressive. The said technology helps this unit to maintain the temperature of the water automatically. Also, the addition of the savings monitor is a great way to know how much you are saving.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a reliable unit for everyone who wants a continuous flow of hot or warm water. Your hot showers won't be interrupted. It can heat up to 50 gallons of water with ease. It's also a reliable unit for anyone who wants to keep a record of how much they are saving on overall energy costs.
Bottom Line
This tankless water heating unit is excellent when it comes to delivering what it promises. You won't face any operational issues while using this model. The design is appealing and it doesn't demand too much space. It works well for smaller households that want a constant flow of hot water during the colder months.
Best Ductless Heat Pump:
Daikin 24,000 BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent purchasers of this unit have reported their satisfaction. Many of them considered themselves top-tier DIY individuals. Such buyers shared they found it easy to install this unit themselves. Other than that, many of them appreciated the five-year warranty, which could be extended to ten years. Many buyers liked the silent operation.
Why it Stands Out to Us
At 24,000 BTUs and a SEER of 19, this is an energy-efficient unit for you to consider adding to your home. It is accompanied by a wireless remote to make controlling temperatures easier for the entire household. This wall-mounted unit will remain silent. It is meant to be used throughout the year.
Who Would Use This Most?
This is a great unit to opt for anyone who wants to control temperatures in their garage, attic, sunrooms, and more. It comes with almost everything you need for the installation process. A top-tier DIYer will find it easy to install. The 24,000 BTUs are recommended for a space ranging from 800-1200 square feet.
Bottom Line
This particular model has a whole lot of features to ensure small spaces remain at the temperature you want it to. From garages to attics and sunrooms, there are many rooms you can place this unit. The SEER 20 rating makes it an energy-efficient model to invest in.
Best Pool Heat Pump:
FibroPool FH055
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many recent buyers have shared they were thrilled with the performance of this unit. They liked how it wasn't too noisy and didn't demand too much from them, in terms of space. Several buyers shared the installation process was smooth and not too expensive. They liked how it efficiently heated pool water.
Why it Stands Out to Us
In our opinion, this unit is one you should know about if you’re in the mood to purchase something reliable for heating pool water. With this unit, you will have an energy-saving way of keeping your swimming pool comfortable for many months. The controls are easy to get the hang of and this unit doesn’t make a lot of noise.
Who Will Use This Most
For anyone with a pool that can contain up to 10,000 gallons, this specific heating unit can do the trick to keep it warm. It’s a great way to extend your swimming months as winter rolls in. Setting the temperature won’t be an issue for the entire household. It can be used by those who live in colder areas.
Bottom Line
Not many pool heating units can do what they advertise. But this unit from Fibroheat is different. It can be used to keep the outdoor swimming pool at around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The control panel offers convenient access. The installation process shouldn’t be a hassle and the durable make allows it to continue working for years.
Best Portable Heat Pump:
Whynter ARC-14SH
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The overall customer feedback regarding this unit from Whynter has been quite positive. Many recent buyers have shared they were very happy with the featured four operational modes. They liked how they had the power to decide how to use this unit. Several buyers liked the washable pre-filter, as well as the activated carbon filter.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For us, this unit does check many boxes. It is definitely a model everyone can rely on to ensure the temperature of their room constantly stays at the level you want. Switching through the AC, heater, dehumidifier, and fan modes is hassle-free. The activated carbon filter plays a role in cleaning the air entering your living space.
Who Will Use This Most
This unit is recommended for anyone who wants a unit that’s versatile. As mentioned, you can select from a total of four modes. This is also a great model for those who want convenience when using a temperature control system. The design is also very appealing and of course, it is highly portable.
Bottom Line
Wrapping it up, this unit is a portable heat pump that's sure to make your domestic life easier. It is meant for smaller spaces and can easily cool or warm up to 500 sf. You can place it wherever you want. The four different modes help this model stand apart from many competitors.
Best Trane Heat Pump:
XV20i Variable Speed
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Going over what recent buyers of this heating unit have shared, we can tell that many were satisfied by it. They liked how the SEER rating of 22 means this is an energy-efficient model. Other than that, many buyers liked the overall design and how it isn't too bulky, while still being durable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This final item on our list stood out to us for many reasons. We like the resilient construction and the ease of use it offers. The SEER 22 rating is one of the highest in the heat pump market. We like how smart this unit is. This model is capable of calibrating, as required, to ensure your living space remains comfortable throughout the year.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a great unit for anyone who wants something that’s convenient to handle. You will get a lot of control over how you want this model to operate. This is also a great unit to invest in for those who want a heating pump that will help them save money on their energy costs. It can be beneficial for small to mid-sized homes.
Bottom Line
Wrapping up the final item on our list, we do like this model offered by Trane. It has a lot of features ready to benefit households during all months. Using it shouldn't be too troublesome. Whether it's for cooling or warming up a room, this model will serve you the way you want.
Best Heat Pump for the Money:
Hayward HP50TA
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
From what we could find, a majority of the recent buyers of this product have shared positive reviews. Many of them were satisfied with how it could be used to warm a pool with up to 13,000 gallons of water. Several users liked the two-year warranty against manufacturer defects. They also liked how this unit wasn’t too heavy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The quality this heat pump can give you while being available for a specific price tag is the reason behind placing it in such a position. We do like the overall construction of this model. The featured titanium heat exchanger makes it one of the best in the market. Being highly resistant to corrosion means you can rely on it for many years.
Who Will Use This Most
This unit has been designed to be impressively resistant to corrosion from chemicals and saltwater. That's why it's a heat pump you should know about if you live in a small to a mid-sized house in a coastal area. Also, if you own a pool that can hold up to 13,000 gallons of water, this unit can serve you well.
Bottom Line
This particular pump is a great choice for those wanting a powerful unit for their small to mid-sized homes. It’s reliable when it comes to heating up pools, too. Take note; it has been designed to operate efficiently in coastal settings. From the design to the silent operating noise, you will get a lot of value for your money.
Types of Heat Pumps
Some of you must be wondering about the types of heat pumps available. Don't worry. We got you!
Take note; there are, essentially, three types of heat pumps. The differences deal with the source being used. All three types do operate using the same principles we have already mentioned.
Air Source
Such models are called air-to-air units. Such a device takes heat present in the outdoor air and then brings it into the house. Such units happen to be the cheapest to install. They also don’t require a lot of space.
Ground Source
This kind of model is also called the geothermal unit. Such a pump takes heat energy from the soil around the house’s foundation. Due to the ground being warmer than the air in colder months, such units are highly recommended for winter. They are quite expensive to install, though.
Water Source
The third type, as the name states, uses water. You can benefit from it only if your house is close to a body of water. The heat is extracted from the water by pumping it through such a unit. Such models are cheaper to install compared to the ground source units.
The sub-categories include the hybrid heat pump, solar heat pump, and the gas-fired, or absorption, heat pump.
How to Install a Heat Pump
As someone who is interested in buying a heat pump, it will do you good if you know how to install such a unit!
Installing a Condenser
The condenser needs to be installed outside your home. This is the device that will convert, as well as transfer, the warm or cool air to the space you want. Normally, it's recommended that the condenser be installed four feet away from the building. It should also have at least 20 feet of clear space in front of and above it. If it snows in your area, the condenser should be placed on a mount above the usual snow line.
Installing the Air Handler
As air handler is the unit that will release the air (warm or cool) in your desired area. Typically, the handler is placed at least 30 feet from the condenser. This is because you will need to attach the handler to the condenser through cords. Of course, the mounting plate should be installed before the handler is attached.
A ducted air handler will be needed if the temperature of several rooms needs to be controlled. Such an air handler is usually mounted to the roof for easier handling.
Remember the Connections
Each air handler requires proper connections. These connections are refrigerant lines, a drain line, a supply duct, and a return duct.
Do watch the video below to get a better idea of what we just shared.
Conclusion
We hope our article and accompanying buyer’s guide were able to offer you the information you were searching for. Selecting the right heat pump can bring a lot of comfort to your house. So, take time to go over the unit’s specifications and see if it can meet your needs.
People Also Ask
Due to the interesting technology that heat pumps use, it’s understandable that many of you have certain questions. It’s never wrong to ask as many questions as possible when making a buying decision.
Below we have tried to do our best to answer some of the frequently asked questions pertaining to heat pumps.
What Size Heat Pump Do I Need for a 1500 Square Foot House?
There’s not a direct answer to such a question. As mentioned, numerous factors play a role in determining what typeand size of heat pump you need for your home. A factor you should know about is a ton of cooling or heating capacity equals 12,000 BTUs. Normally, a 25,000 BTU capacity should work for 1500 sf.
What Size Heat Pump Do I Need for a 2000 Square Foot House?
You should know that a ton of cooling or heating capacity offered by a unit is equal to 12,000 BTUs. So, if you have a house that's 2000 square feet, it's recommended you go for a heat pump offering 25,000 to 35,000 BTUs. Again, the unit you should opt for also depends on the size of the space you need to control and the environment you reside in.
What Size Heat Pump Do I Need for a 2500 Square Foot House?
For a 2500 square foot house, it’s recommended that you opt for a heat pump that can give you at least 35,000 BTUs. You might need a higher-performing unit or even a lower one depending on the size of the living space. The type of unit is also dependent on the overall outdoor temperature of the area your house is in.
How Long Does a Heat Pump Last?
Take note; the length of time a heat pump can last depends on a number of factors. It comes down to the quality and type of unit you have. It's also impacted by how well the unit is maintained. Usually, a heat pump should be able to last you for close to 15 years.
How Do I Know if I Have a Heat Pump?
Due to ACs and heat pumps looking alike, it can be a bit confusing to tell the two apart. However, you can (or should be able to) easily tell the difference by turning on the heat and seeing if the outside unit is running. You should also be able to tell the difference by looking at the labels present on the air handler and condenser. Analyzing the reversing valve inside the condenser can also let you know.
How to Defrost a Heat Pump
There is a way for you to defrost a heat pump. You should:
- Allow the model's defrost to run.
- Let it defrost itself if it's covered in a thin layer of ice.
- The fan can be turned on to aid with the defrosting process.
- If nothing works, you should contact the repair service.
At What Temperature Does a Heat Pump Stop Working?
When it comes to functionality, you should keep in mind that a temperature range will keep your heat pump from working. The said range is 25-30 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s -3.8 to -1.1 degrees Celsius. However, the addition of supplemental heating can help certain units to continue working even in the coldest of weather.
How Often Should a Heat Pump Cycle On and Off?
The heat pump unit is capable of turning a cycle on and off to ensure your home remains at the temperature you want it to. You should know that such units do tend to run more frequently in colder weather. This means that cycling decreases as it begins to grow colder outdoors.
How to Tell if You Have a 2-Stage Heat Pump
To tell if you have a two-stage heat pump, you should consider taking off the thermostat and looking at the wires. You should pay attention to the wires leading into the terminals. These particular terminals are the W, W1, Y, and the Y1.
In a two-stage heating unit, the wires will be leading into terminals W1 and W2. For a two-stage cooling unit, the wires will be leading into Y1 and Y2.
Also, you can always search for the model number online to be sure whether a unit is a two-stage model, or not.
