Key takeaways
- A heat pump is an air conditioner that can also run in reverse to heat.
- Summer comfort is the same; the difference is what happens in winter.
- If your AC is failing, a heat pump is often a small step up in price — and it can qualify for rebates an AC can’t.
Same hardware, one extra trick
Both have an outdoor unit, an indoor coil and refrigerant lines. A heat pump adds a reversing valve and controls that let it move heat in either direction. In summer, you can’t tell them apart.
| Heat pump | Air conditioner | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | Yes | Yes |
| Heating | Yes — most or all of the year | No |
| Works with your furnace | Yes — as a hybrid | Yes |
| Home Renovation Savings | Eligible | Not eligible |
| Typical lifespan | About 15 years | About 10–15 years |
When to choose a heat pump
- Your AC is 12+ years old or needs a costly repair
- You want to cut gas use without replacing your furnace yet
- You heat with electricity, oil or propane
- You want the rebate — an AC doesn’t qualify
The easiest upgrade
Swapping a failing AC for a heat pump and keeping your furnace as backup is often the simplest, lowest-risk way to start. Nothing changes indoors; your system just gets smarter.
When a straight AC can make sense
- Your AC is fairly new and you just need a repair
- You plan to move soon and only need cooling
- Your installer confirms your ducts or layout can’t support a heat pump well
Common questions
Will a heat pump cool as well as my AC?
Yes. Sized correctly, a heat pump cools exactly like a central air conditioner of the same capacity.
Does it cost more to install?
Usually somewhat more than a basic AC. Rebates can offset much or all of the difference.