How Natural Gas Heat Pumps Work
Unlike traditional electric heat pumps, GHPs are powered primarily by natural gas, significantly lowering electricity demand while delivering year-round comfort.
- A natural gas-powered engine drives the system’s compressor, replacing electric motors and reducing operating costs.
- GHPs offer high efficiency in both heating and cooling modes.
- They deliver reliable performance in extreme temperatures, making them especially effective during Philadelphia’s coldest months.
Key Benefits of GHPs
- Grid Resiliency: With many Philadelphia buildings facing electrical capacity constraints, GHPs help free up grid demand by operating on natural gas—an alternative that supports system-wide reliability.
- Lower Operating Costs: Natural gas typically costs less per BTU than electricity, providing long-term savings on energy bills.
- Smaller Carbon Footprint: By consuming natural gas directly on-site, GHPs avoid the energy losses associated with electricity transmission and distribution.
- All-Weather Performance: Unlike traditional electric heat pumps that lose efficiency in low temperatures, GHPs remain effective and efficient—even in freezing conditions.
Ideal Applications for GHPs
Natural Gas Heat Pumps are well-suited for:
- Multifamily and commercial buildings with limited electrical capacity
- Schools, hospitals, and offices seeking reliable, energy-efficient HVAC systems
- Retrofit projects where upgrading electric infrastructure is cost-prohibitive
- Businesses planning HVAC system upgrades with a focus on cost and performance
PGW is committed to helping customers explore GHP solutions that reduce energy costs, improve efficiency, and ease the load on Philadelphia’s electrical infrastructure.
- Download our GHP Handout for more information
- Contact us at MajorAccounts.Hotline@pgworks.com to schedule a consultation or site evaluation