Variable-speed heat pumps, which dominate the heat pump market in many countries, are getting more attention in the U.S. The NEWS asked several manufacturers about the benefits of the technology.

There are numerous factors for this trend, including energy efficiency, government incentives, and technology improvement. But HVAC contractors are still the boots on the ground in this electrification mission.

Decarbonization and electrification, the refrigerant transition, and incentives were big topics among geothermal companies at the AHR Expo. Consumer education and ease of product serviceability were also discussed.

The transition to A2Ls will likely serve as an interim solution. Europe has already embraced propane in certain heat pump systems, and the U.S. may follow suit, albeit with a different low-GWP refrigerant.

Traditional air-source heat pumps can provide reliable heating when outdoor temperatures are moderately cold. However, once the weather reaches subzero temperatures, heat pumps suffer a drastic loss of performance due to frost accumulation on their outdoor units.

These seven products from major manufacturers offer extras in terms of efficiency, comfort, and ease of installation and servicing.

In the coming months and years, local bodies will continue to align with the federal government’s push toward electrified technologies with legislation such as the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to lower household energy costs.

Goncalo Costa from Bosch walks us through the electrification trend in HVAC including the government incentives for those products.

Connectivity is more than a buzzword, said Katie Woodling, head of product management for air conditioning, North America, at Bosch.