Heat Pumps 101
Everything you need to know about the most efficient heating technology available today.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is an electric heating and cooling system that moves heat rather than generating it. In winter, it extracts heat energy from the outdoor air — even in very cold temperatures — and transfers it inside your home. In summer, it reverses the process, acting as an air conditioner. Because it moves heat instead of burning fuel, it delivers 2–4 units of heat energy for every 1 unit of electricity consumed.
How Does It Work?
Extract
The outdoor unit absorbs heat energy from the outside air using a refrigerant. Fujitsu's Halcyon series operates efficiently even when outdoor temperatures drop as low as -15°F.
Compress
The refrigerant is compressed, which raises its temperature significantly — enough to heat your home comfortably and consistently, regardless of outdoor conditions.
Heat, Cool & Dehumidify
The indoor unit distributes conditioned air quietly and evenly throughout your space. In heating mode it warms your home; in cooling mode it removes heat and excess humidity, improving indoor air quality and comfort year-round.
Reverse
In summer, the cycle reverses entirely. The system extracts heat and moisture from inside your home and releases it outdoors — cooling and dehumidifying your living space without a separate air conditioning unit.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
Key Benefits
Up to 300% Efficient
Traditional oil furnaces are only 80–90% efficient at best. Heat pumps deliver 200–400% efficiency (COP of 2–4), meaning far more heat per dollar spent.
Works in Vermont Winters
Modern cold-climate heat pumps like Fujitsu's Halcyon series maintain full heating capacity down to -15°F — purpose-built for Vermont and New Hampshire winters.
Heat, Cool & Control Humidity
A heat pump works alongside your existing heating system to provide supplemental warmth, whole-home cooling, and year-round humidity control — all from a single, quiet, efficient unit.
Lower Carbon Footprint
No combustion means no on-site CO2, carbon monoxide, or particulate emissions. Your home becomes cleaner and safer.
Consistent Comfort
Inverter-driven compressors modulate output continuously, maintaining your set temperature without the on/off cycling of traditional systems.
Rebates Available
Vermont incentives may be available to qualifying homeowners. As an Efficiency Vermont partner, Coleman helps you determine your eligibility and navigate the process.
Ready to learn more? See how Fujitsu heat pumps compare to fossil fuels.