What is a Heat Pump and How Does It Work?

If you’ve taken the deep dive into exploring heating and cooling options for your home, you’ve probably come across heat pumps. These systems are becoming more popular throughout Ohio, and for good reason. At Shanklin Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners choose efficient, long-lasting HVAC systems, and heat pumps often rise to the top. Whether you’re in the middle of new construction or replacing an old system, understanding how heat pumps work can help you make a smart decision for your comfort and budget.

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a single system that handles both heating and cooling. It typically looks like a traditional central air conditioner—a rectangular outdoor unit with a fan on top—but it works differently behind the scenes. Rather than creating heat like a furnace, a heat pump moves heat from one place to another, depending on the season. In the summer, it pulls heat out of your home. In the winter, it pulls heat in—even from chilly outdoor air.

How Does a Heat Pump Work?

A heat pump uses refrigerant, coils, and a compressor to transfer heat between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Here’s a simplified version:

In cooling mode, the system absorbs heat from your indoor air and pushes it outside, just like an air conditioner.

In heating mode, it works in reverse—pulling heat energy from the outdoor air and transferring it indoors.

The main components include the outdoor unit (with a compressor and coil), the indoor air handler (with another coil and blower), and a reversing valve that lets the system switch between heating and cooling. It’s an energy-smart process that doesn’t require fuel combustion, making it a cleaner alternative to traditional HVAC systems.

Benefits of Switching to a Heat Pump

If you’re thinking about upgrading your home’s HVAC setup, here’s why a heat pump might be the right choice:

• Year-Round Comfort: One system handles both heating and cooling, reducing maintenance and simplifying your setup.
• Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps can be up to 3 times more efficient than traditional electric resistance heating, leading to lower utility bills.
• Cleaner Heating: No combustion means no emissions from your home’s heating system, making it a greener choice.
• Zoning Options: Ductless mini-split heat pumps offer room-by-room temperature control without major renovations.
• Incentives & Rebates: Many Ohio homeowners qualify for energy efficiency rebates and tax credits when installing a new heat pump. 

Is a Heat Pump Right for Your Ohio Home?

Ohio’s climate might seem like a challenge for heat pumps, but modern models are designed to perform even in freezing temperatures. Cold-climate heat pumps can efficiently extract heat from outdoor air well below freezing, and hybrid systems can pair with a furnace for backup on the coldest days. If you’re looking for lower energy use, fewer emissions, and year-round comfort, a heat pump is absolutely worth considering.

Why Choose Us?

At Shanklin Heating & Air Conditioning, we bring decades of hands-on experience to every heat pump installation. Our technicians are NATE-certified, friendly, and highly skilled at finding the right solution for your home—no upsells, just honest recommendations. We’re proud to serve homeowners across Northeast Ohio with responsive service and dependable workmanship.

Ready to explore heat pump options? Contact Shanklin Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule a consultation with our HVAC specialists. Let’s build a system that works smarter for your home.