Heat pumps are designed to eliminate the need for fossil fuel-powered systems. Thanks to inverter-driven compressor technology and advanced system controls, modern heat pumps can now operate reliably even in extreme temperatures, providing consistent comfort in climates that once required backup gas or electric resistance heat.
Advanced heat pump systems are measuring up against even the coldest temperatures and offer variable speed functionality that extends equipment lifespan and enhances energy savings. As technology has advanced, so has homeowner confidence, making heat pumps a mainstream solution for both new construction and retrofits.
All-In-One Solution for Heating, Cooling, and Sustainability
Heat pumps are having a moment—and according to Victor Gomez, CEO of Samsung HVAC, it's a moment that's been decades in the making.
"Although it is the trend nowadays, it has been the trend that we've been fulfilling over the past 30 years," Victor told me during a recent conversation. "Now it's finally caught fire—in a positive way—especially in the U.S., where adoption has been slower, but is accelerating quickly."
According to Victor, Samsung systems allow you to cool your home, and with that same system, heat it—removing the need for conventional heating and air conditioning equipment.
Samsung offers a wide range of solutions for every type of home and installation challenge, from ducted to ductless, wall-mounted to floor-mounted units. "Even in retrofits where you can't run new ductwork, we have options—floor consoles, wall units, even cassettes that look like traditional registers," he explained.
Versatility is essential as the U.S. housing stock ages and homeowners seek smarter ways to upgrade without ripping out existing systems, especially given that over 62% of homeowners report that energy-efficient upgrades are worth the investment to achieve long-term savings, according to COGNITION Smart Data.
Cold Climate? No Problem.
One of the biggest hurdles for heat pumps historically has been performance in cold climates. Victor acknowledged the challenge: "When I started in this business 20 years ago, heat pumps had a bad rap. They couldn't heat below 30 or 40 degrees."
But that has changed. Dramatically.
"Thanks to inverter compressor technology, our newest models can now heat down to -22°F," he said. "That’s something most competitors can't say."
The Power of Smart Integration
Samsung's SmartThings app brings all the company’s smart home devices into a single platform—including HVAC.
"It’s the one app to control it all," Victor said. "From security to appliances to heating and cooling. It allows you to monitor your energy consumption, manage indoor comfort, and even use AI to adjust your systems automatically based on how you live."
As demand-side energy management becomes a critical tool for grid stability and cost savings, smart HVAC systems that can respond to peak load events are key.
"All the energy companies are requiring demand response capabilities," Victor added. "Our systems allow for automatic adjustments during peak periods, reducing strain on the grid while keeping homeowners comfortable."
According to COGNITION Smart Data, consumer interest in smart home controls has grown by more than 40% in the past three years, with HVAC integration ranking as a top priority.
New Innovations: Eco Heating and Hylex Systems
Victor is particularly excited about two upcoming innovations: Samsung's Eco Heating System and its Hylex equipment line.
The Eco Heating System is an air-to-water solution that provides both space heating and domestic hot water—already used in over 40 countries and now coming to North America. "It’s a game-changer for full-home electrification," Victor said.
The Hylex line is designed specifically for retrofits, where homeowners want to keep their existing furnace but need to replace outdated cooling equipment. "This unit connects to the coil above the furnace and works as both a cooling system and a heat pump," Victor explained. "If the homeowner later decides to go all-electric, they can swap the furnace for an air handler, and the system is ready."
Efficiency, Comfort, and the Climate
Victor’s message is clear: Samsung's HVAC innovations aren't just about comfort. They're about the bigger picture.
"We're eliminating fossil fuels. We're giving homeowners control. We're helping reduce grid demand. And we're offering options that make it easy to retrofit and upgrade sustainably."
The data backs him up. COGNITION Smart Data shows that homeowners, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are actively seeking HVAC systems that offer:
As the U.S. market continues to evolve, companies like Samsung are proving that heat pumps are no longer the future of home comfort—they’re real, cost-effective solutions that are available today.
And with AI-driven integration, cold-climate performance, and retrofit-ready solutions, they may just be the hero technology we've been waiting for.
Watch the video for the full interview with Victor.
Want to learn more about high-performance HVAC, energy efficiency trends, and what matters most to homeowners? Check out Green Builder Media’s latest COGNITION Smart Data insights.