Ground Source vs. Air Source Heat Pumps: Which One is Better for Cold Climates?
When it comes to heating your home in freezing temperatures, cold weather heat pumps have become a game-changer. But should you go with a ground source heat pump (GSHP) or an air source heat pump (ASHP)? Both have their pros, but which one performs best in subzero conditions? Let’s get into it. The Basics A ground source heat pump (GSHP), also known as a geothermal heat pump, pulls heat from beneath the earth’s surface, where the temperature is stable year-round. It uses underground pipes filled with a heat transfer fluid to collect warmth and distribute it inside your home. An air source heat pump (ASHP) absorbs heat from the outside air—even in subzero conditions—using a refrigerant cycle. It then compresses the refrigerant to increase its temperature and delivers warmth inside. Both use the same refrigeration cycle, but different heat sources—one from the ground, the other from the air. So, which is better for cold weather heat pumps ? Cold Climates Ground source heat p...