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Infographic on how a air source heat pump works

With heating and cooling accounting for some of the largest energy expenses for homeowners, it makes sense to install one high-efficiency appliance to keep costs as low as possible. An air-source heat pump (ASHP) can handle both your heating and cooling needs while saving up to 30 percent on your electric bill.

During the summer, an ASHP extracts the existing heat from inside your home and moves it outside, often outperforming standard central air conditioners in the process.

The cycle is reversed for heating, extracting warmth from the outdoor air and pumping it into your home so your furnace runs less. During the spring and fall, your furnace may not run at all.

Earlier generations of ASHPs were limited in terms of their effectiveness in states with colder climates like Minnesota’s, but technology has advanced to where they can now operate down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit.