The main function of a heat pump is to do what?

The primary function of a heat pump is to transfer heat from a colder area to a warmer area. This process is essential for both heating and cooling the home, depending on the season. When in heating mode, a heat pump extracts heat from the outside air (even in cold temperatures) and transfers it indoors. Conversely, in cooling mode, it removes heat from the indoor air and releases it outside, effectively cooling the indoor environment.

This ability to move heat rather than generate it directly distinguishes heat pumps from traditional heating systems that rely on combustion or resistance elements. By using a refrigerant cycle, heat pumps can provide efficient heating and cooling, making them a versatile option for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures.

In the context of the other options, while a heat pump can indeed cool indoor air (which is why that option might seem plausible), its fundamental operation is centered around heat transfer. It does not generate electricity nor is it solely tasked with circulating air; rather, it works by manipulating air temperature for climate control.