3 Simple Ways to Identify Your System

If you are unsure whether your home utilizes this innovative technology or a traditional air conditioner and furnace combo, look for these three clear indicators.

1. Observe Outdoor Unit Activity

The most reliable operational clue lies outside your home. A heat pump is a versatile system that handles both heating and cooling.

The Test: Turn on your heat. Go outside and look at the condenser unit (the metal box with the fan).
The Result: If the outdoor unit is running and making noise while warm air flows from your vents inside, you almost certainly have a heat pump. Traditional furnaces do not utilize the outdoor unit when heating; they generate heat internally.

2. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat offers immediate insight into your system's capabilities.

The Test: Cycle through the "System" or "Mode" settings on your thermostat.
The Result: Look for settings labeled "Emergency Heat," "Em Heat," or "Aux Heat." These settings control auxiliary heat strips, a backup heating source used when outdoor temperatures drop too low for the heat pump to operate efficiently alone. Standard AC-only thermostats typically lack these specific controls.

3. Inspect the Manufacturer’s Label

For a definitive answer, go straight to the source specifications.

The Test: Locate the data plate or sticker on the side or back of your outdoor unit.
The Result: Look for the "Model Type" or "System Type" field. It will often explicitly state "Heat Pump" or use the abbreviation "HP." If the label is faded or unclear, write down the Model Number, type it into a search engine alongside the brand name, and review the manufacturer's product page.

Why Does It Matter?

Knowing whether you own a heat pump system is crucial for maximizing your home's efficiency and long-term comfort. Heat pumps transfer heat rather than generating it, making them a smart choice for sustainability.

Understand Your Bills: Heat pumps use electricity differently than gas furnaces, affecting your monthly costs.

Schedule Correct Service: Heat pumps require specific HVAC service protocols compared to standard ACs.

Optimize Thermostat Settings: Proper programming prevents the inefficient use of backup heating.

Claim Financial Incentives: You may be eligible for local utility rebates.

What If You Have a Heat Pump?

Congratulations! You own a versatile, energy-efficient system designed for modern comfort. To get the most out of it::

Schedule Bi-Annual Maintenance: Because they run year-round, heat pump maintenance is required in both spring and fall.

Avoid "Setback" Temperatures: Unlike furnaces, heat pumps work most efficiently when you maintain a consistent temperature. Large temperature swings can trigger expensive auxiliary heat.

Consider Cold Climate Options: If you live in a region with freezing winters, you might benefit from a cold climate heat pump (pairing a heat pump with a gas furnace) or a specialized dual fuel system.

What If You Don’t Have a Heat Pump?

If your inspection reveals you have a traditional air conditioner paired with a furnace, you still have a robust system. However, as you plan for the future, there are significant benefits to considering a heat pump.

Heat pumps are increasingly efficient, even in colder regions, thanks to cold-climate technology advancements. If you are considering an upgrade, a dual fuel system—which pairs a heat pump with a gas furnace—can offer the best of both worlds: electric efficiency for mild days and gas power for freezing nights.

More Questions On Heat Pumps? Contact A Bryant Dealer

Figuring out whether you have a heat pump doesn’t have to be complicated. Look for signs like year-round operation, outdoor unit activity in the winter, and “Aux Heat” settings on your thermostat. You can also confirm by checking the unit's model number or calling your local Bryant dealer.

Knowing your system type helps you make better decisions for maintenance, energy use, and future upgrades. If you discover you don’t have a heat pump but are interested in switching to one, your local Bryant dealer can walk you through heat pump replacement options tailored to your home and climate.

About The Author: Travis Baugh is a Digital Brand Marketing Manager for Bryant, where he creates clear, helpful content to guide homeowners through heating, cooling, and indoor air quality decisions. His goal is to empower readers with the knowledge they need to choose the right comfort solutions for their home—confidently and comfortably.

How Do I Know if I Have a Heat Pump?