Sign up for Wirecutter’s newsletters to get independent reviews, expert advice, and the very best deals sent straight to your inbox.Heat pumps are good for the world—and, in many cases, for your wallet, too.They’re the most energy-efficient way to handle both heating and cooling in your home; they may also be the most affordable choice in the long term, once you factor in the decreased utility bills and the potential tax credits and incentives, depending on the state you live in. Heat pumps are usually better for the environment, too, and are generally considered to be one of the best ways for homeowners to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort. They also happen to rank among the quietest and most comfortable options available for home heating and cooling.