Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP): These heat pumps extract heat from the ambient air and are commonly used for residential heating and cooling. They work well in moderate climates and are relatively easy to install.
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP or Geothermal Heat Pumps): These heat pumps use the relatively constant temperature of the earth below the frost line to provide heating, cooling, and hot water. They are highly efficient but typically more expensive to install than air source heat pumps.
Water Source Heat Pumps: These heat pumps extract heat from a water source such as a lake, pond, or well. They are particularly efficient but are mostly used in large-scale HVAC systems for commercial or industrial applications.
Absorption Heat Pumps: These heat pumps are powered by a heat source, such as natural gas or solar energy, rather than electricity. They are often used in industrial or large-scale applications where waste heat or natural gas is readily available.
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps: These heat pumps provide efficient heating and cooling to specific zones in a building without the need for traditional ductwork. They are a good choice for retrofitting older homes or in cases where ductwork is impractical.
Each type of heat pump has its own advantages and is suited to different applications and environments. The choice of heat pump type often depends on factors such as climate, budget, available space, and the heating and cooling needs of the building.