There are two cooling options in the HVAC world: an air conditioning unit or a heat pump.
Both will cool your home and keep you more comfortable when it’s hot outside. The one you choose will depend on a number of factors, including your geography.
Air Conditioners Work Well In Super-Hot Climates
An air conditioning unit can cool down a big space in a hurry and tends to be more reliable in very hot climates, like southern U.S. states.
They also use a lot of energy, however, so it’s good to be 100% certain that air conditioning is the right choice for your space before investing in the equipment, installation, and higher monthly energy bills.
And air conditioning stands alone; it provides no heat. If you have an air conditioning system and need to heat your home in the cooler months, you’ll need to have a completely separate heating system, too.
Heat Pumps Work Well In Temperate Areas
Because of the way they operate — by heating or cooling air as they transfer it between inside and outside — heat pumps use energy efficiently, making them less expensive to operate.
They work well in temperate climates, where the differences between summer and winter temperatures are less extreme.
And because they can heat or cool, they’re less expensive overall to install. Though a heat pump costs more upfront than an air conditioning unit, you don’t have to pay for installation of a separate furnace system — the heat pump is a two-in-one deal.
Which One Is Better For The Environment?
Heat pumps are less costly to operate and lighter for the planet.
The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (energy.gov) says an air-force heat pump can “reduce your electricity use for heating by approximately 65% compared to electric resistance heating such as furnaces and baseboard heaters. High-efficiency heat pumps also dehumidify better than standard central air conditioners, resulting in less energy usage and more cooling comfort in summer months.” [emphasis ours]
So: Heat pumps are your best bet for the environment. But keep in mind that if you choose to purchase an air conditioning system, you can find ENERGY STAR-certified air conditioners to help you save money and energy. (ENERGY STAR certifies heat pumps and furnaces, too.)
Sources
Heat Pump Systems, energy.gov
Heat Pump Vs. Air Conditioner, forbes.com
Heat Pump vs. Air Conditioner (2024), architecturaldigest.com
Heat Pump vs. Air Conditioner: What’s The Difference?, thisoldhouse.com