Heat pumps are increasingly being used in commercial buildings due to their versatility and energy efficiency. In this video from Slipstream, Ryan Hoger explains how heat pumps function, how they differ from traditional air conditioners, and the various types that can be applied in commercial settings.
Heat pumps are fundamentally air conditioning systems that can reverse their function, providing both heating and cooling.
The cooling cycle of a traditional air conditioning system involves two main components: the outdoor condenser coil and the indoor evaporator coil. The refrigerant inside these coils absorbs heat from inside the building and expels it outside. In a heat pump, these coils switch roles to provide heating. A reversing valve within the system flips the direction of refrigerant flow, allowing the outdoor coil to absorb heat from the environment and bring it indoors. This process is what enables a heat pump to function in both cooling and heating modes.
One of the most common types of commercial heat pumps is the rooftop unit, found in more than 50 of commercial buildings. These units combine heating, cooling, and fan systems into a single package, usually mounted on the roof. A rooftop heat pump unit can replace traditional gas or electric rooftop HVAC systems, offering better energy efficiency, particularly when transitioning from electric resistance heating to a heat pump system. The decision to switch from a gas-fired unit depends on the balance of energy costs and electrification goals.
Another popular system is the split system, where the components are divided between an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, connected by refrigerant pipes. These systems are scalable, ranging from residential-sized units to large commercial installations. Mini-split systems, which operate without ductwork, are also common in smaller commercial spaces or buildings with specialized needs like server rooms. These systems are increasingly used for both heating and cooling in commercial buildings undergoing electrification.
Watch more videos from Slipstream:
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Ryan Hoger is a contributor with Slipstream.
