By Robert Patterson
The short answer: a heat pump is an air conditioner that can run in reverse — cooling in summer and heating in winter — using electricity to move heat rather than burn fuel. In our mild-winter climate that makes it one of the most efficient, versatile systems you can install.
How does a heat pump work?
In summer it pulls heat out of your home like any AC. In winter it reverses, pulling heat from the outdoor air and bringing it inside — even cool air has heat to extract. See the glossary definition for the short version.
Why it fits here
Heat pumps shine where winters are mild and summers are long — exactly the Gulf Coast. You get efficient cooling all summer and efficient heating on our handful of cold days, from one system, which is why it is so often the best-value replacement on the Gulf Coast.
Who it's right for (and not)
Great for homeowners replacing both an aging AC and furnace, or going all-electric. If you already have cheap gas heat and a working furnace, a straight AC may pencil out better — our furnace vs. heat pump guide walks through it. Sizing still rules: Manual J matters.
Your next step
Explore heat pump services and installation, see which brands we install, and check financing. Request a quote or browse the Learning Center.