# Heat Pumps: You've Weighed Features And Ratings, But You're Not Done Yet > Heat pumps are an efficient alternative to running a furnace, but they're not right for every home. Learn more about benefits, suitability. ![heat pumps, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/heat-pump-system.gif)Sometimes, all it takes is the arrival of the first large heating bill of the season. Then, Massachusetts homeowners begin looking for ways to cut costs. Some of them turn to heat pumps — an energy-efficient alternative to running a furnace. ![heat pumps, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/heat-pump-system.gif) Air-source heat pumps work by absorbing heat from the air into a fluid, which is passed through a compressor. Here, the temperature is raised and channeled to the home. There are several benefits to choosing an air-source heat pump. They: - Are easy to install - Can also function as an air-conditioning unit in the summer - Dehumidify the air better than conventional central air conditioners - Are generally low in required maintenance. (In fact, in parts of the United Kingdom, they are sometimes called "fit and forget" technology.) - Usually last between 15 and 20 years - Run on electricity. But perhaps their best feature is that they can provide up to four times the amount of energy as they consume. This is possible because the pumps move heat; they don't convert it from a fuel. As appealing as this type of system's benefits may sound, air-source heat pumps are not well suited to every home. If you're considering one, be sure that: - You have plenty of space outside for the condenser, which is usually affixed to a wall or placed on the ground. It will need a large, unobstructed area so that air can move freely around it. A sunny location is best. - Your home is fairly well insulated to minimize heat loss - You would be replacing a coal or electric heating system, so that the energy savings you gain can help you recoup the cost of purchasing an air-source heat pump over time Air source heat pumps have been called the best and most promising systems, but don't leave such an important decision to just anyone. Call the experts at [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://www.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). We'll inspect your home and help you decide if this exciting technology is the right fit for your home. ***goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information and other HVAC topics, download our free [Home Comfort Solutions Guide](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/download-the-home-comfort-solutions-guide.html).*** *[Heat pump image](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-76213906/stock-photo-air-source-heat-pump-diagram.html?src=lb-7785190) via Shutterstock* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/heat-pumps-features-and-ratings.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/heat-pumps-features-and-ratings.html)