5 Things to Know About Heat Pumps in 2026

Heat pumps have been in the spotlight over the past year, showing up in news stories, policy discussions and home‑improvement conversations across the country.

And there’s a good reason for all the attention: heat pumps continue to improve in performance and energy efficiency, making them one of the most practical upgrades for homeowners looking to save energy and stay comfortable.

If you’re curious about whether a heat pump could be right for your home, read this month’s blog for five things you should know about heat pumps in 2026:

1. Heat pumps now perform even better in extreme temperatures.

Heat pumps have long been known for their energy efficiency, but improvements have made them even more capable in both hot and cold climates. Recent research shows that cold‑climate heat pumps installed between 2023 and 2025 maintained strong performance at temperatures as low as –20°F, thanks to improved compressors and refrigerants. On the other end of the spectrum, heat pumps are proving highly effective in hot and humid climates, which we explore below.

2. They remain one of the most efficient ways to heat and cool your home.

Heat pumps work by moving heat rather than generating it, which makes them far more efficient than systems that burn fuel or rely on electric resistance heating. According to updated Department of Energy data, heat pumps can reduce energy use for heating by 40-65% compared to older electric systems. Plus, new ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient models released also make it easy for consumers to identify top‑performing units.

3. Heat pumps help reduce your home’s carbon footprint.

As the electric grid becomes cleaner, heat pumps continue to offer meaningful emissions reductions. An analysis from a Department of Energy laboratory found that switching from a gas furnace to a heat pump can cut household carbon emissions by 25–60%, depending on the region and electricity mix. For households that pair a heat pump with rooftop solar or enroll in a renewable energy program through their utility, the environmental benefits are even greater.

4. They improve the comfort of your home, especially in humid climates.

One of the biggest benefits of heat pumps is improved comfort. Modern systems run longer, low‑power cycles that help maintain more consistent temperatures and remove more humidity from the air. This is especially helpful in warm, humid regions where traditional air conditioners may struggle to keep indoor spaces dry. Some newer models also include smart sensors that automatically adjust airflow and humidity levels, helping prevent mold, mildew and that “sticky” feeling on hot summer days.

5. Rebates and incentives can make heat pumps more affordable than ever.

The financial landscape for heat pumps has changed significantly since last summer. While some federal tax credits are no longer available, many utilities have expanded their own rebate programs, and several states, including Maine, New York, California and Colorado, continue to offer generous incentives. These local and state incentives have driven continued heat pump adoption. Industry data from late 2025 showed that heat pumps outsold gas furnaces nationally for the second year in a row.

Thinking about upgrading? A heat pump can be a smart, efficient and future‑ready choice for many homes, especially if your current HVAC system is aging or you’re looking for ways to lower your energy bills. Check with your utility and state government to see which incentives are available and consider making the switch in 2026.