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I installed my first heat pump about 8 years ago, and several more have followed since then. So I’ll admit to a certain bias, but I think it’s fully justified: When compared with traditional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems that use a furnace for heat and an air conditioner for cooling, heat pumps can offer significant energy savings that result in lower household bills. They also could be called heat exchangers because that’s effectively how a heat pump conditions a space.
By using a refrigerant and a compressor, the technology can extract heat from outside—even when it feels quite cool—and pump that warmth into your home. In summer, it can be switched over to provide effective air conditioning. Heat pumps also can help reduce humidity. Other models are specifically designed for household hot water or for pool heating. Dual-fuel systems, which combine an electric heat pump and natural gas furnace, also promise high energy efficiency but are highly complex and expensive.
This in-depth guide details key features of heat pumps, including types, capacity, and efficiency ratings, and includes some of the best heat pump options for home use. I researched more than three dozen products and curated this list of top picks based on customer satisfaction, product efficacy, and value. We did a deep dive into the specifications, features, and customer reviews to select these top-selling heat pumps in a variety of categories. When judging heat pump efficiency, two figures are used: the SEER and HSPF ratings; for a full discussion of these terms, please see the Efficiency Rating section after the descriptions of our top picks.
- BEST OVERALL: Pioneer Wall Mount Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Klimaire 12,000-BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
- UPGRADE PICK: Goodman Split Heat Pump System With Air Handler
- BEST MULTIPLE-SPACE: Senville 36,000-BTU Tri-Zone Mini-Split Heat Pump
- BEST SMALL-SPACE: Pioneer Diamante 9,000-BTU Mini-Split Heat Pump
- BEST WI-FI COMPATIBLE: MrCool DIY 36,000-BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
- BEST FOR POOLS: Hayward Inground Pool Heat Pump
- MOST EFFICIENT: Cooper & Hunter Ductless Mini-Split AC/Heating System
- BEST FOR SMART HOMES: Senville 12,000-BTU Mini-Split Air Conditioner
How We Chose the Best Heat Pumps
I have personally bought heat pumps from several leading manufacturers, so I came into this assignment with my own preferences. To ensure a balanced report, I worked with the Bob Vila team and researched the best heat pump systems in a variety of categories. The list factors in heating power, coverage, noise level, heating and cooling functions, and special features offered by the top heat pump brands. We also focused on models with high customer satisfaction.
The heat pumps on the list offer 12,000 to 36,000 British thermal units (BTUs) of heating power, with the exception of the pool pump. These units heat spaces from 550 to 1,500 square feet to accommodate different user needs and spaces. The list prioritized models with a low operating volume, and many provide both heating and cooling. We also considered units with special features like Wi-Fi controllability, remote controls, and smart-home integration.
Our Top Picks
To help shoppers in their search for a suitable option, we’ve gathered the best heat pump options in a variety of categories. They represent excellent performance and value. Later, we cover the types of heat pumps and their various features to make it easier to accurately assess the best heat pump for the kind of installation you have in mind.
Best Overall
Pioneer Wall Mount Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
Pioneer is one of the top names in ductless mini-split heat pumps, and models in this range offer 18,000 BTUs. The SEER rating is 19, with a class-leading 10 HSPF. The air handler is very quiet, producing just 30 to 57 decibels, depending on the setting and whether the unit is indoor or outdoor.
The clever “Follow Me” feature takes feedback from a sensor in the remote control and adjusts to provide heat or cooling in that location rather than where the air handler is positioned. The well-thought-out installation kit includes both electrical wiring and copper pipe, and there’s free technical support, too.
Quality is assured by independent testing and certification to Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) standards. Given the high performance, it’s also a remarkably good value.
Product Specs
- Type: Split-ductless
- Heating power: 18,000 BTUs
- Coverage: 400 to 650 square feet
- Noise level: 30 to 43.5 decibels (indoor unit), 57 decibels (outdoor unit)
Pros
- Trusted brand that meets AHRI independent testing and certification standards
- Quiet operation; indoor unit produces less noise than most refrigerators, even on high settings
- Heating and cooling functions make it useful year-round; great for most homes
- Installation kit includes electrical wiring, copper pipe, and free technical support
Cons
- DIY installation can be quite tricky; shoppers will want to consider hiring an HVAC specialist
Get the Pioneer wall-mount heat pump at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best Bang for the Buck
Klimaire 12,000-BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
The 12,000-BTU Klimaire is designed for spaces up to 550 square feet. Besides suiting smaller spaces, it’s an ideal cost-effective solution to add to an existing HVAC system for a new extension. The SEER rating is 19 with 9.5 HSPF, and the air handler runs as low as 24 decibels, so it won’t disturb sleepers.
Although very competitively priced for this type of electric heating, the AHRI-certified Klimaire is not short on features. A built-in compressor heater will allow it to operate when the outdoor temperature is as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit. A “Home Away” setting ensures the room maintains a constant 46 degrees Fahrenheit while the house is unattended.
Product Specs
- Type: Split-ductless
- Heating power: 12,000 BTUs
- Coverage: Up to 550 square feet
- Noise level: 24 to 38 decibels (indoor unit), 55 decibels (outdoor unit)
Pros
- This affordable model meets the needs of spaces up to 550 square feet
- AHRI certified with SEER rating of 19 and 9.5 HSPF; plenty of heating and cooling for most spaces
- At a maximum of 38 decibels, the interior heating and cooling functions are quiet and nondisruptive
Cons
- Limited 550-square-foot coverage won’t be adequate for larger spaces
Get the Klimaire heat pump at Amazon or Klimaire.
Upgrade Pick
Goodman Split Heat Pump System With Air Handler
While air-source heat pumps are often intended for DIY installation in single spaces, the Goodman heat pump can provide heat for the entire home. It is a favorite with professional installers with United States manufacturing and excellent support. This unit offers 3.5-ton performance that is equivalent to 42,000 BTUs, rated at 15 SEER and 9 HSPF. The air handler is the indoor unit and can use existing ducting if replacing an old HVAC system.
At 74 decibels, the outdoor unit is louder than typical split-ductless heat pumps but compares favorably with competitors. A defrost function prevents winter damage, which can be a problem with low-cost alternatives. The unit’s efficiency is backed by Energy Star certification. Pump pressure can be varied according to the demand of the system, which also helps reduce running costs.
Product Specs
- Type: Split-ducted
- Heating power: 3.5 tons (42,000 BTU)
- Coverage: 1,800 square feet minimum
- Noise level: 74 decibels
Pros
- Professional-grade whole-house heat pump and air conditioner system from a leading brand
- Offers exceptional performance and can be used with existing HVAC ducting
- Energy Star certified for low consumption with defrost function that prevents damage during winter
Cons
- It is a considerable investment, and installation charges will add to the cost
Get the Goodman heat pump at Amazon or HVACDirect.com.
Best Multi-Space
Senville 36,000-BTU Tri-Zone Mini-Split Heat Pump
While generally used as a single-room solution, more powerful split-ductless heat pumps like this 36,000-BTU model from Senville can supply three different air handlers at the same time, giving it the capacity to heat (or cool) multiple spaces. Each wall-mounted unit has its own remote control, allowing completely independent settings for each room.
Performance figures are an impressive 23 SEER and 11.3 HSPF. The system is designed to provide consistent warmth, air conditioning, and humidity control for three completely separate spaces.
Wi-Fi control is available via the Alexa app, and voice activation is possible, although an Amazon Echo device is necessary. While technically similar to single-room mini-splits, and a full installation kit is included, the manufacturer does recommend that this model is professionally fitted.
Product Specs
- Type: Split-ductless
- Heating power: 36,000 BTUs total, 12,000 BTUs per unit
- Coverage: 1,500 to 1,350 square feet per unit
- Noise level: 23.5 to 38 decibels (indoor unit), 63 decibels (outdoor unit)
Pros
- A high-capacity model designed to provide heat for multiple spaces
- Each wall-mounted air handler has its own remote allowing customized control of individual areas
- Advanced functions include self-cleaning, leak detection, and diagnostics to warn of potential problems
Cons
- Although it’s similar to DIY systems, added complexity means that more costly professional installation is strongly advised
Get the Senville 36,000-BTU heat pump at Amazon.
Best Small-Space
Pioneer Diamante 9,000-BTU Mini-Split Heat Pump
At 9,000 BTUs, this Pioneer Diamante is intended for the kind of extra spaces created when a bedroom is added above a garage or a small guesthouse is built in the yard. It comes with a budget-friendly price tag, and when used as suggested, will usually be far more economical than extending existing HVAC.
Buyers will have to make few compromises in terms of performance. The Pioneer Diamante is described as 9,000 BTUs, but heat output is actually 9,500 BTUs. It is rated at 20 SEER and 10.5 HSPF. It is intended for DIY installation, and affordability is enhanced by the inclusion of a full fitting kit. A Wi-Fi module is available, though this costs extra.
Product Specs
- Type: Split-ductless
- Heating power: 9,500 BTUs
- Coverage: 100 to 350 square feet
- Noise level: 32 to 38 decibels (indoor unit), 50 decibels (outdoor unit)
Pros
- A budget-friendly model that’s ideal for additional bedrooms, guest rooms, or other home extensions
- Designed for straightforward DIY installation with comprehensive accessory kit included
- Automated sweeping louvers spread warm air through the whole room quickly and effectively
Cons
- Although customer satisfaction is generally high, those with faults complained about long delivery times
Get the Pioneer Diamante heat pump at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Wi-Fi Compatible
MrCool DIY 36,000-BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
MrCool produces a high-value range of split-ductless heat pumps. This powerful model is rated for 36,000-BTU output. Installation is simplified with a comprehensive kit that includes 25 feet of cable, connectors, and a charged air handler. The fan runs up to 63 decibels, depending on speed. In addition to warmth, it can provide cooling down to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
The standout feature of this model is it offers Wi-Fi control in addition to the standard remote. The free app provided allows the monitoring and controlling of heat or cooling via smartphone. It also integrates with both Alexa and Google Assistant smart-home systems. The unit will remember previous settings and restart after a power outage.
Product Specs
- Type: Split-ductless
- Heating power: 36,000 BTUs
- Coverage: 1,500 square feet
- Noise level: Up to 63 decibels
Pros
- This model is Wi-Fi controllable; connects to Alexa and Google Assistant
- Comprehensive installation kit included; could likely be tackled by competent DIYers
- Comes with a remote control and retains previous settings in the event of a power outage
Cons
- Attempting DIY installation of this unit can be very tricky without electrical know-how
Get the MrCool heat pump at Amazon, The Home Depot, or HVACDirect.com.
Best for Pools
Hayward Inground Pool Heat Pump
Pool pump performance is described using Coefficient of Performance (COP) rather than SEER and HSPF. The use of titanium in the heat exchanger maximizes transfer efficiency, and this 90,000-BTU Hayward is rated at 5.7, which is well above the federal recommended minimum of 3.1.
Tough ultraviolet (UV)-treated polypropylene is used for the main body, with rust-resistant stainless steel fittings. The water flow rate is necessary for matching with an appropriate water pump, and this one has a versatile range of 30 to 75 gallons per minute. A digital control panel on the front of the unit provides for quick and easy operation.
Product Specs
- Type: Pool pump
- Heating power: 90,000 BTUs
- Coverage: Not specified
- Noise level: Not specified
Pros
- Heat exchanger uses titanium in this efficient heat pump; great for saving on energy bills
- Digital control panel makes for quick and easy operation for most users
- Rugged and durable UV-treated polypropylene body made for outdoor use
- Rust-resistant stainless steel fittings appropriate for use with water; ideal for pools
Cons
- May struggle to keep up with heating tasks in very cold weather
Get the Hayward pool heat pump at Amazon, Walmart, or Leslie’s.
Most Efficient
Cooper u0026 Hunter Ductless Mini-Split AC/Heating System
The 18,000-BTU Cooper & Hunter ductless mini-split system is the only model we found that reaches the standards of the top pick on this list, with a SEER of 19 and an HSPF of 10. Both are well in excess of federal recommendations, and pricing is competitive, too.
At 57.5 decibels, the outdoor unit isn’t the quietest ductless mini-split system, but the noise level isn’t excessive, and the indoor unit sits at a fairly harmless 30.5 to 43 decibels depending on the level it’s set to. It is both AHRI certified and Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL) listed. A cold catalyst filter helps remove dust particles and absorbs harmful airborne benzene and ammonia. The unit is also Wi-Fi ready (an additional USB adapter is required). While everything is provided for DIY fitting, professional installation is required for warranty compliance.
Product Specs
- Type: Split-ductless
- Heating power: 18,000 BTUs
- Coverage: Not specified
- Noise level: 30.5 to 43 decibels (indoor unit), 57.5 decibels (outdoor unit)
Pros
- This is a highly efficient unit that’s both AHRI certified and ETL listed
- Features Wi-Fi compatibility (with an additional USB adapter required)
- Cold catalyst filter helps remove dust and harmful airborne particles
Cons
- Unknown coverage area; this unit may not perform well in larger spaces
- Slightly louder than other models, which can be disruptive during use
Get the Cooper & Hunter heat pump at Amazon.
Also Consider
Senville 12,000-BTU Mini-Split Air Conditioner
The 12,000-BTU Senville supports Amazon Alexa for integration with smart-home systems. Add an Echo Dot (if not already in use), and voice activation becomes possible. The free smartphone app also gives owners the opportunity to monitor and control the device from virtually anywhere. With a SEER rating of 20.5 and 9.5 HSPF, it delivers performance equal to or better than anything in its class. At just 22.5 decibels on the low setting, and up to 37 decibels when set to high, it’s comfortably quiet, too.
Though a full kit is included and technical support is offered, professional installation is required to validate the warranty. Nevertheless, the competitive purchase price will go a long way toward compensating for these costs. Those who need a heat pump for a larger area might consider one of Senville’s other high-efficiency models from the same range.
Product Specs
- Type: Split-ductless
- Heating power: 12,000 BTUs
- Coverage: 450 to 750 square feet
- Noise level: 22.5 to 37 decibels (indoor unit), and 53.5 decibels (outdoor unit)
Pros
- Quiet operation at just 22.5 decibels on the lowest setting; up to just 37 decibels on high
- Affordable unit; far more economical than extending HVAC for smaller spaces
- This model includes a comprehensive installation kit and technical support
Cons
- Limited heating power at 12,000 BTUs; will not be suitable for larger spaces
Get the Senville 12,000-BTU heat pump at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Heat Pump
There are more details to consider beyond the different types of heat pumps. The following includes some of the most important heat pump features that are key to maximizing both performance and energy savings in different situations.
Types of Heat Pumps
Heat pumps can be divided into three main types: air source, split-ductless, and geothermal. While all types use the same basic principle of heat exchange to warm or cool a house, understanding their different strengths helps narrow the choices for the best heat pump for a particular home.
Air Source
Air source heat pumps sit outside the home and use an internal ducting system much like other HVAC systems that provide hot or cool air inside. When switching from an electric or gas furnace to a heat pump, parts of the existing installation can often be used.
An air-source heat pump also can provide hot water, but it’s important to note that it is a separate system. An air-source hot-water heat pump is not the same as a heating and cooling heat pump, so two systems are needed if buyers want both functions. They are very effective in mild and warm areas, but additional heating may be required where the temperature regularly drops below 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Split-Ductless
Like air-source heat pumps, split-ductless systems (also called mini-splits) have a condenser unit outside paired with a wall-mounted air handler that has a fan inside similar to air conditioners. Usually the latter is fitted high up near the ceiling. A handheld remote control is used to change settings.
The ducting that causes some heat loss in other systems isn’t necessary, so installation is generally more straightforward. The ductless feature makes it popular for house additions when a house has been extended and the owners don’t want to modify the current HVAC system. The amount of square footage it can condition depends on the unit used, and several units might be necessary to cover an entire house.
Geothermal
The temperature underground remains constant below about 6 feet deep, regardless of the season. A geothermal heat pump takes advantage of this consistent warmth. Liquid-filled pipes—called a “loop”—are buried underground either horizontally or vertically. They pick up the underground temperature that is then pumped around the house.
Also called ground source heat pumps, geothermal heat pumps can be used in areas where other systems are less effective in winter. However, installation costs are high, and the ground space needed makes them unsuitable for smaller properties.
Purpose
When looking at the main benefits of the best heat pump systems, the main purpose usually is serving as an energy-efficient alternative to furnace and air conditioner combinations for a home. However, there are other areas where heat pumps can provide a cost-effective solution. Fitting a split system to an extension may be less expensive and easier than stretching an existing HVAC beyond its intended specification.
If there is space, geothermal heat pumps are a great way to provide hot water. Small air-source heat pumps also can provide effective heating for outdoor pools. Although they are less efficient when it’s cold, it’s unlikely that an outdoor pool would be used then anyway.
Output Capacity
Whether comparing a heat pump with other HVAC systems or looking at a more modest installation, both the heating and cooling potential of single units or expanded systems will be important. The standard measurement unit of heat is the BTU. The generally accepted standard is that for both comfortable warmth in winter and sufficient cool air in summer, a system should provide 20 BTUs per square foot per hour.
For example, a 500-square-foot space with 8-foot ceilings needs a heat pump rated for 10,000 BTUs. Not all manufacturers provide BTU information, some preferring to use tons to describe a heat pump’s output capacity. A ton is equal to 12,000 BTUs per hour.
HVAC Compatibility
A frequent consideration is whether a heat pump can be effectively combined with other heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. While a split-ductless heat pump is a good way to add heating and ventilation when a living space is expanded, the advice of an HVAC expert may be needed for a proper assessment of compatibility among systems.
However, there are more advanced hybrid systems that integrate traditional furnace-based HVAC with an electric heat pump. They use the heat pump when the outside air is warm enough to make sense economically and switch over to the furnace when the temperature drops. Installation is more complex, but the resulting fuel savings can make it worthwhile.
Efficiency Rating
With home energy costs continually rising, any way to manage consumption and save money is helpful. Heat pumps are typically more efficient than traditional HVAC and air conditioning combinations helping shoppers reduce their carbon footprint and save money. A heat pump’s actual heating efficiency is rated in several ways, and it varies depending on the type. With all systems, higher numbers are better, though the best heat pumps in terms of energy efficiency also tend to cost more.
Most air-source and split-ductless models provide two ratings. For heating systems, this is a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). There is a minimum United States federal standard of 7.7 HSPF, but the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) recommends 8.5 or greater. For cooling, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) is used. Again, the federal minimum is 14 SEER, though ACEEE recommends 15 or more.
Geothermal heat pump efficiency is rated by the Coefficient of Performance (COP) for heating and Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) for cooling. Respective minimums are 3.1 for COP and 17.1 for EER.
Noise Level
The amount of noise that a heat pump generates varies based on the type of heat pump. Air-source and split-ductless heat pumps both have an outdoor fan and compressor. While not aggressively loud like a chainsaw, they can create a constant background hum. The pitch will often rise as the energy demand increases.
Many air-source or split-ductless units are under 60 decibels, which is much like normal conversation. However, some exceed 70 decibels, which is comparable to traffic noise or a vacuum cleaner. As they’re frequently sited on or near an outside wall, the noise level likely has a significant impact on where the unit is positioned. The indoor fan for split-ductless heat pumps is usually very quiet and unlikely to cause noise problems, even in bedrooms.
Geothermal heat pumps have no external fan. As a result, many are almost silent and frequently described as “whisper quiet.”
Installation
Installation is a very important consideration because professional installation is strongly recommended with many heat pumps.
A split-ductless heat pump is the easiest type to install, but even with good DIY skills, it will take time and patience. As a rough guide, contractors often work in pairs and would expect installation to take around 5 hours.
Air-source heat pumps for pool heating can be self-installed, if you have the required electrical knowledge. Household systems are far more complex, typically requiring a couple of days to install. Unless you have a wealth of experience, it’s a job that’s probably best left to professionals. Several manufacturers warn that their equipment should only be installed by qualified technicians.
That’s also true with geothermal heat pumps. An initial survey is conducted to see if the site is suitable, then there’s substantial groundwork or drilling to install the loop. They are often recommended as an efficient solution for new builds and large open plots. Installation in well-developed urban areas can be challenging.
FAQs
Now that you’ve had the opportunity to read about some of the key features and consider some of the best heat pumps on the market, you may have lingering questions. It’s a complex area, so it would be understandable if a few questions remained. The following answers to some of the most common queries may help.
Q. What are heat pumps?
A heat pump is a low-energy way of providing both heating and cooling. It can be used for the whole house or a single room and to provide hot water or heat your pool.
Q. Do heat pumps use a lot of electricity?
Heat pumps typically output three to four times more energy than they consume, so they use electricity very efficiently. This also helps reduce the use of fossil fuels when compared to traditional alternatives. As with any heating or cooling system, heat pumps need proper management to maximize savings.
Q. How do I choose the best heat pump for my home?
To choose the best heat pump, investigate how efficiently it heats and cools a given space, plus the cost and the ease of installation. These and other key considerations are covered in detail above.
Q. Should I turn off my heat pump in extreme cold?
Air-source and split-ductless heat pumps can be damaged if they freeze, but many have internal heaters to prevent this. It’s important to check. Properly installed geothermal heat pumps should not be affected because they are deep enough that the cold does not reach them.
Q. How long do heat pumps last?
Heat pump longevity is based on the type. Air-source and split-ductless last an average of 15 years, though it is not uncommon for them to last more than 20 years. The indoor unit of a geothermal heat pump can be expected to last 25 years or more, with 50 years usually quoted for the underground loop.
Q. What is the best heat pump brand?
While selecting the best heat pump should be based more on specification than brand, Daikin, Goodman, and Pioneer all perform consistently well in independent satisfaction surveys.
Q. What is the most efficient heat pump on the market?
Two are difficult to separate. The top pick, the Pioneer wall-mount heat pump, is an outstanding device. The Cooper & Hunter heat pump is equally efficient.