Check out this article from the Portland Press Herald, that originally appeared In The Sunrise Guide monthly newsletter where Scott Libby of Royal River Heat Pumps in Freeport explains the efficiency and evolving technology of heat pumps.
The technical name for a heat pump is a Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner. Essentially, they are air conditioners that can work in reverse to perform a heating function. Most people in Maine want an energy-efficient way to heat their homes. They get that when they have a heat pump installed, and because of the technology, they also get a very efficient air conditioner. Heat pumps are so popular because people in colder climates can now actually heat their homes with them.