How Quilt solved the heat pump’s biggest challenge

On Tuesday, smart home startup Quilt announced the launch of a groundbreaking three-zone heat pump designed to deliver consistent efficiency even in extreme conditions that often hinder traditional models. This innovative unit features a single outdoor compressor that can power three indoor units, simplifying large installations and reducing outdoor space requirements, an important factor in the company's ambitious expansion plans bolstered by a recent $20 million Series B funding round. What sets Quilt apart is its commitment to harnessing data from its heat pumps. Each unit is equipped with advanced sensors and internet connectivity, allowing engineers to gather valuable insights. This data-driven approach has enabled Quilt to achieve feats that other companies struggle with. For instance, in September, they implemented an over-the-air software update that enhanced the capacity of existing heat pumps by 20%, providing users with increased comfort during extreme weather conditions. The company faced a significant challenge in developing the three-zone heat pump: optimizing variable speed operation. While multi-zone heat pumps are designed to adjust based on heating or cooling demand, maintaining stability at low speeds can be difficult. Matthew Knoll, Quilt's co-founder and CTO, likens this to driving a car at varying speeds—steady performance at higher speeds is simpler than at lower speeds. Many heat pump systems compromise efficiency by shutting down compressors at low demand, but Quilt leveraged data from its numerous installations to refine its technology. With over a thousand units in various climates, the team can identify optimization opportunities and address potential issues in real-world conditions. Unlike traditional testing, which is often limited and costly, this extensive data collection allows Quilt to develop a more effective product. In addition to its innovative design, Quilt features a larger copper coil, which supports the use of a smaller compressor. This unique combination enables the heat pump to deliver nearly 90% of its rated capacity (27,000 BTUs) at extremely low temperatures of -13˚ F (-25˚ C) without sacrificing performance or efficiency. Each indoor unit can be individually controlled, allowing for precise heating or cooling as low as 2,210 BTUs or 1,570 BTUs respectively. Even when not actively heating or cooling, the outdoor unit operates efficiently, emitting only around 300 BTUs in heating mode—comparable to the body heat of an adult. Looking ahead, Quilt's future remains focused on expanding its product line to meet diverse home heating and cooling needs. While specific plans were not disclosed, Knoll reiterated the company's vision to develop comprehensive solutions for a variety of households.