What Is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump (ASHP) extracts heat from the outdoor air and moves it inside to warm your home in winter. In summer, the process reverses — it acts as an air conditioner, moving heat from inside your home back outside. One system handles both heating and cooling year-round.
The most popular configuration in New York is the ductless mini-split. These systems consist of a compact outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor wall-mounted units via a small refrigerant line set — no existing ductwork required. Installation is straightforward and minimally disruptive, typically completed in a day.
Modern cold-climate mini-splits are designed to perform reliably even when outdoor temperatures drop to -13°F, making them well-suited to New York winters. They're an excellent fit for home additions, finished basements, converted garages, or any space that needs heating and cooling but lacks ductwork.
For homes with existing forced-air ductwork, ducted ASHP configurations are also available and can replace a conventional furnace and central AC system entirely.
Air Source Heat Pump Facts
How It Works
A ductless mini-split has two parts: an outdoor condenser and one or more indoor air handlers. The system extracts heat from outdoor air — even in freezing temperatures — and transfers it inside. In summer, the process reverses to provide cooling. One compact system delivers year-round comfort with no ductwork required.
ASHP vs. Traditional Heating Systems
| Feature | Gas / Oil / Propane | Electric Baseboard | Air Source Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provides Cooling | No | No | Yes — built-in |
| Ductwork Required | Yes (forced air) | No | No — ductless option |
| Zone Control | Limited | Per-room | Per indoor unit |
| Works Below Freezing | Yes | Yes | Yes, to -13°F |
| Available Rebates | None | None | Up to $10,000+ |
| Carbon Emissions | High | Medium | Up to 65% lower |
| Installation Complexity | High (ducts/venting) | Low | Low — no ducts needed |
Benefits of Installing an Air Source Heat Pump
Heating AND Cooling in One System
A single mini-split replaces both your heating source and window air conditioner — simplifying your home comfort with one efficient, quiet unit.
No Ductwork Required
Mini-splits mount on the wall and connect to an outdoor unit via a small line set through the exterior wall. No major renovations, no ductwork — installation is typically completed in a day.
Built for NY Winters
Modern cold-climate heat pumps are rated to operate efficiently down to -13°F. They don't slow down in cold weather the way older models did.
Room-by-Room Control
Each indoor unit has its own thermostat and remote control. Heat only the rooms you're using — no more conditioning empty spaces.
Lower Carbon Emissions
Air source heat pumps produce up to 65% fewer emissions than gas or oil heating — a significant step toward reducing your home's environmental impact.
Significant Rebates Available
Federal HEAR rebates and NY utility clean heat programs can offset up to $10,000+ of your installation cost for qualifying households.
Available Rebates & Incentives
Offset your installation cost with stacked federal and utility programs
🏠 NYSERDA EmPower+
Income-eligible New York households can receive a ductless mini-split or cold-climate heat pump at zero cost — up to $10,000 in covered upgrades. Qualify via SNAP, HEAP, TANF, SSI, or income limits.
See if you qualify →🏛️ IRA HEAR Program
The federal Home Electrification Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program offers up to $8,000 for ASHP installation for income-eligible households — on top of state programs.
See HEAR details →⚡ Clean Heat Program
NYSERDA's Clean Heat program — offered through Con Edison, National Grid, NYSEG, and other utilities — provides additional rebates for cold-climate heat pump installations across New York State.
Ask us about your utility →