Types of Heat Pumps Explained: Air Source, Geothermal & More

Modern heat pump systems have transformed how homeowners heat and cool their spaces, providing comfort, efficiency, and environmental benefits all in one package. But not all heat pumps work the same way. From air-source models that draw warmth from outdoor air to geothermal systems that use underground energy, each type offers unique advantages depending on your home, location, and budget.

At Voomi Supply, we know that choosing between different heat pump types can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you understand how heat pumps work, what sets each type apart, and how to choose the right one for your home.

How Heat Pumps Work

Before diving into the types of heat pumps, it helps to understand what they do. A heat pump moves heat instead of generating it. During winter, it captures heat from the air, water, or ground outside your home and transfers it indoors. In summer, it reverses direction, removing heat from your indoor air and releasing it outdoors.

This dual capability means a single system can both heat and cool your home, making it one of the most energy-efficient HVAC technologies available today. Because heat pumps move heat rather than create it, they can deliver up to three times more energy than they consume in electricity.

Main Types of Heat Pumps

While all heat pumps share the same basic principle of transferring heat, their efficiency and installation depend on where they source that heat from. The three most common types of heat pumps are air-source, ground-source (geothermal), and water-source systems.

1. Air-Source Heat Pumps: Reliable and Versatile

Air-source heat pumps are the most common and accessible option for residential use. They extract heat from outdoor air and transfer it indoors during the winter, then reverse the process in the summer for cooling.

Modern models perform efficiently even in colder temperatures thanks to inverter technology and improved refrigerants. Air-source systems are also easier to install and generally cost less than geothermal alternatives.

Ideal for: Homes in moderate or mild climates, especially where ductwork already exists or where ductless mini-splits can be added easily.

Key advantages:

• Affordable installation and broad availability

• Energy efficiency up to 300% under optimal conditions

• Minimal maintenance requirements

• Suitable for both ducted and ductless configurations

If you’re looking for a simple way to replace your traditional furnace or central air system with an energy-efficient upgrade, an air-source model is often the best starting point.

2. Geothermal Heat Pumps: Long-Term Efficiency from the Ground

Also known as ground-source heat pumps, geothermal systems tap into the stable underground temperatures beneath your home. While surface air fluctuates with the weather, soil and rock temperatures remain relatively constant throughout the year, allowing geothermal systems to operate at peak efficiency in both summer and winter.

A network of buried pipes, called a loop system, circulates a fluid that absorbs or dissipates heat depending on the season. The system then transfers that heat to your home through an indoor unit.

Although installation costs are higher due to excavation, geothermal heat pumps can reduce energy bills by up to 65% compared to conventional HVAC systems, and they typically last much longer (20–25 years for the indoor unit and up to 50 years for the underground loop).

Ideal for: Homeowners planning to stay in their homes long-term or those seeking the highest efficiency and lowest environmental impact.

Considerations:

• High upfront cost due to digging or drilling

• Requires adequate land area for loop installation

• Exceptionally quiet and reliable once installed

Geothermal systems also pair well with renewable energy sources like solar panels, creating a near-zero-emission comfort system for your home.

3. Water-Source Heat Pumps: Efficient but Location-Dependent

A water-source heat pump works much like a geothermal system but uses a nearby body of water, such as a pond, lake, or well, as its heat exchange medium. These systems rely on the consistent temperature of the water to provide heating and cooling throughout the year.

Because the efficiency of this setup depends heavily on water availability and quality, water-source systems are less common in residential settings but can be extremely effective where conditions are right.

Ideal for: Properties near a stable water source and homeowners seeking a sustainable, low-emission HVAC solution.

While installation requires careful environmental assessment, water-source heat pumps can achieve exceptional performance and longevity when properly designed.

Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps

Once you’ve chosen a heat pump type, the next step is deciding between a ducted or ductless configuration.

• Ducted heat pumps use existing air ducts to distribute conditioned air evenly throughout the home. They work best in larger homes or where central air systems already exist.

• Ductless systems, also known as mini-splits, use wall-mounted indoor units connected directly to an outdoor compressor. They allow zone-by-zone temperature control and are ideal for homes without ducts or for room additions.

Both versions operate on the same principle, transferring heat, but ductless options offer more flexibility and energy savings by letting you condition only the rooms you use most.

Choosing the Right Heat Pump for Your Home

Selecting the best system involves balancing efficiency, climate suitability, and installation practicality. Here’s how to approach the decision:

1. Assess Your Climate

Air-source heat pumps work well in moderate climates, while cold-climate models or geothermal systems are better suited for regions with harsh winters.

2. Evaluate Your Home’s Infrastructure

If your home already has ductwork in good condition, a central ducted system may make sense. For older homes or new additions, a ductless system could be simpler and more cost-effective.

3. Consider Installation Space and Budget

Geothermal systems require significant land or drilling space, while air-source units need outdoor clearance and reliable electrical access.

4. Look at Energy Ratings

Always compare SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and HSPF2 (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings. Higher numbers indicate greater efficiency and lower long-term costs.

When a Hybrid or Dual-Fuel System Makes Sense

In colder regions, even the best air-source models may need support during freezing weather. That’s where dual-fuel systems come in, combining a heat pump with a traditional gas furnace. The system automatically switches to the furnace when temperatures drop too low for the heat pump to operate efficiently.

This setup maximizes savings without sacrificing comfort, especially for homeowners who prefer electric heating for most of the year but want a reliable backup during extreme cold.

Maintenance and Longevity

One major advantage of heat pumps is their durability and low maintenance compared to combustion-based systems. With proper care, an air-source system can last 12–15 years, while a geothermal installation can operate efficiently for decades.

Regular maintenance includes cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting coils, and ensuring unobstructed airflow around the outdoor unit. A well-maintained system will maintain its SEER and HSPF performance ratings, extending both lifespan and savings.

Environmental Benefits of Heat Pumps

All heat pumps contribute to reducing carbon emissions by minimizing or eliminating fuel combustion. Because they use electricity to transfer heat rather than generate it, they can significantly reduce your home’s carbon footprint, particularly when paired with renewable electricity.

Additionally, the latest models use low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants that are safer for the environment, aligning with the HVAC industry’s transition toward cleaner, sustainable technologies.

Choosing the Best Heat Pump Type for Your Home

Understanding the types of heat pumps, from air-source to geothermal and water-source, helps you choose the right system for your space, climate, and budget. Air-source models offer flexibility and affordability, geothermal systems deliver the highest long-term efficiency, and water-source units provide sustainable performance where conditions allow.

At Voomi Supply, we provide a wide selection of Residential Heat Pump Systems and expert guidance to help you make the right choice. Whether you’re replacing an aging furnace, upgrading to a ductless mini-split, or exploring geothermal technology, our inventory covers everything from components to hard-to-find parts.

With trusted brands, fast delivery, and proven HVAC expertise, Voomi ensures your next system isn’t just efficient, it’s built for your home’s future.