Not that long ago, if a conversation centered on heat pumps, it was fairly safe to assume that the equipment referred to ducted, split-system, electric, air-source units. That assumption started to change a few years ago with the growing popularity of ductless heat pumps. And geothermal heat pumps. And VRF systems. Now, there are multiple types of heat pumps available, including gas-powered systems and so-called magic box units, which contain an air-source heat pump to help improve IAQ.
While these alternative units still comprise just a fraction of the heat pump market, manufacturers are hopeful sales will grow once end users and contractors learn about the benefits of the technology.
