Where may the compressor on a heat pump be located?

The compressor on a heat pump can be located either indoors or outdoors, making it versatile for various installation configurations. In typical systems, particularly split systems, the compressor is usually found in the outdoor unit, where it can efficiently expel heat to the outside air during the cooling mode or absorb heat from the outside air in heating mode. However, some systems do have the compressor located indoors, especially in certain designs where space constraints or specific heating needs dictate this arrangement. For example, in some packaged heat pump systems, the compressor is integrated into a single unit that may be placed on a roof or in a mechanical room indoors.

This flexibility allows heat pumps to be adaptable to different environments, enhancing their application in both residential and commercial settings. By placing the compressor indoors or outdoors, the installation can be tailored to optimize space and performance based on the specific requirements of the building.