Heat pumps have become a leading solution for energy-efficient heating and cooling. At the heart of every heat pump lies one critical component: the compressor. Whether you're designing HVAC systems, evaluating commercial installations, or simply trying to understand your home system, knowing the right heat pump compressor type makes all the difference.
In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore various compressor types, how they work, their pros and cons, and how Solareast integrates them into different heat pump models. We'll also compare technologies like inverter compressor heat pumps and look at how compressor design impacts system efficiency and noise levels.
A heat pump compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant through the heat pump system. It increases the pressure and temperature of refrigerant gas, allowing it to release or absorb heat efficiently. Essentially, the compressor acts like a “pump” that moves thermal energy from one place to another.
In heating mode, it extracts low-grade heat from the environment (air, ground, or water) and upgrades it to a higher temperature for indoor use. In cooling mode, the process reverses.
Here’s a simplified version of the cycle:
Evaporation: Refrigerant absorbs heat from the outside environment and becomes a gas.
Compression: The compressor compresses this gas, raising its temperature and pressure.
Condensation: The hot, high-pressure gas releases heat indoors and becomes a liquid again.
Expansion: The liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve, reducing pressure and repeating the cycle.
There are several HVAC compressor types used across heat pump and air conditioning systems. Let’s explore the most common ones, including their working principles, advantages, and limitations.
This traditional type uses a piston and cylinder to compress refrigerant. It’s cost-effective and easy to maintain but less efficient and noisier than newer alternatives.
Pros: Low cost, robust
Cons: Higher noise, more mechanical wear
Use Case: Legacy systems, small-scale installations
A rolling piston within a cylinder compresses refrigerant. Compact and relatively efficient, rotary compressors are often used in smaller units.
Pros: Quiet, simple design, compact
Cons: Not ideal for large-capacity systems
Use Case: Small air conditioners, heat pump water heaters
Two spiral elements compress the refrigerant by progressively reducing the space between them. These are commonly used in heat pump compressor setups due to high efficiency and low noise.
Pros: High energy efficiency, smooth operation, fewer parts
Cons: Higher cost
Use Case: Residential and commercial heat pumps
Featuring two synchronized rotors, this type improves balance and reduces vibration, making it ideal for quiet applications.
Pros: Very quiet, energy-efficient
Cons: More complex design
Use Case: Inverter systems, indoor heat pumps
These use high-speed impellers to compress refrigerant. They are efficient at scale but not commonly found in domestic applications.
Pros: Suitable for large systems, low maintenance
Cons: Bulky, expensive
Use Case: Industrial HVAC systems
An inverter compressor heat pump uses variable speed technology to adjust compressor operation based on heating or cooling demand. Unlike fixed-speed systems that constantly start and stop, inverter models run continuously at optimal speed.
Advantages of Inverter Compressors:
Higher energy efficiency (better COP/SCOP)
Reduced noise
Longer lifespan due to less mechanical stress
Better comfort with more stable temperature control
At Solareast, all our high-end residential and commercial models are equipped with full DC inverter compressors, enabling precise modulation and energy savings up to 40% compared to fixed-speed units.
| Refrigerant | Characteristics | Compatible Compressor Types |
|---|---|---|
| R290 (Propane) | Flammable, eco-friendly, low GWP | Scroll or twin rotary with sealed housing |
| R32 | Medium pressure, low GWP | Inverter scroll or rotary |
| R410A | High pressure, commonly used | Scroll, rotary |
| R134a | Low pressure, older systems | Rotary, reciprocating |
Modern systems—especially in Europe—favor low GWP refrigerants, and compressors must be designed accordingly. For instance, R290 compressors often include explosion-proof design and enhanced sealing.
Energy Efficiency: Inverter and scroll compressors tend to provide higher Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP).
Noise Level: Twin rotary compressors are among the quietest (below 35 dB).
Durability: Scroll compressors have fewer moving parts, reducing wear.
Cold Climate Suitability: Specially designed compressors enable operation at temperatures as low as -25°C.
System Compatibility: Some compressors work better in air conditioner compressor types, while others are optimized for water or geothermal systems.
At Solareast, we use advanced compressor technologies tailored to specific product lines. Here’s how we match each heat pump compressor to the right system:
Compressor Type: Inverter twin rotary or scroll
Key Features:
R290 or R32 compatibility
Ultra-low noise (down to 35 dB)
-25°C operating range
Smart grid ready
Compressor Type: Rotary compressor
Key Features:
Compatible with R134a and R290 refrigerants
Compact and wall-mounted designs
Capable of delivering 75°C hot water with A+ energy efficiency
Compressor Type: Rotary and scroll compressors
Key Features:
Full inverter operation with smart modulation
Max COP up to 15.8 for exceptional energy savings
Durable for outdoor conditions and silent performance
Compressor Type: High-capacity scroll compressors
Key Features:
R410A systems
Designed for continuous operation
Output up to 200kW in maximum configuration
Image Suggestion #2: Solareast product line visual showing different compressors per product type.
Many people confuse air conditioner compressor types with those used in heat pumps. While there's some overlap, key differences exist:
Air conditioners only provide cooling, so their compressors are optimized for one-directional flow.
Heat pumps reverse the cycle and require compressors that can efficiently handle both heating and cooling.
This is why hvac compressor types designed for heat pumps often incorporate features like wide temperature tolerance, low-noise operation, and inverter control.
When selecting a compressor (or a heat pump), consider:
Heating/Cooling Capacity
Required Efficiency Ratings (SCOP/COP)
Local Climate (need for low-temp operation?)
Refrigerant Type (R290, R32, etc.)
Noise Sensitivity
Indoor vs. Outdoor Installation
System Type: Heat Pump vs. Air Conditioner
Working with an experienced OEM or manufacturer like Solareast ensures these decisions are optimized for both performance and compliance.
The compressor is more than just a mechanical part—it determines how efficiently, quietly, and reliably your system works. Whether you're comparing 5 types of compressors or exploring inverter compressor heat pump options, your choice impacts energy bills, comfort, and long-term value.
At Solareast, our expertise in matching advanced compressor technology with the right refrigerant and application means your system performs exactly as it should—efficiently, safely, and sustainably.
If you're planning your next heat pump project, why not choose a solution powered by high-performance compressors and supported by smart energy control?
Contact our team today to get expert recommendations or explore our product range here: www.solareasthvac.com/contactus.html
Let’s build a smarter, cleaner energy future—together.