What is a Heat Pump?

An all-electric heat pump is one of the most efficient ways to heat and cool a home.

A heat pump removes heat from the outside air in the winter and pumps it indoors by using a refrigerant cycle.  Believe it or not, winter air does contain heat that the heat pump can use.  When the outdoor temperature drops to a point where the heat pump cannot supply enough heat for the home, electric heaters are automatically energized to supply additional heat.

In the summer, heat is removed from the home, leaving cold air, which is discharged back into the home.

A heat pump needs no flue for venting fumes, does not require a flame and does not leave residue in your home.  It is quiet, clean and safe, and it's also the most effective way to heat and cool your home!

In the heating mode of a Heat Pump the refrigerant cycle is reversed and you are now removing the heat from the outside and sending it inside the house. You can feel the cool air outside, over the condenser fan motor. When temperatures go below 40 degrees Heat Pumps labor in producing heat and must use back up electric heat strips. Heat strips cost 3 times as much to operate as a Heat Pump when producing heat.

Dual-Fuel Heat Pump

Possibly the best of both worlds..a dual-fuel heat pump is a new alternative to conventional gas heating/electric cooling systems. It combines an electric heat pump with a gas furnace, either in a single package or separately. By combining the two, the result is that the heat pump provides the heating in milder weather when it is much more economical and efficient than a furnace, and the furnace provides added heat in colder weather. In effect, the gas furnace takes the place of the usual electric resistance supplemental heating. A dual-fuel heat pump is the economical way to enjoy year-round comfort.

Contact CPWS or TVA for additional information on the program.