The Next Evolution in Home Comfort: Bryant Crossover Heat Pumps

We are always looking for ways to bring our customers the most innovative, energy-efficient, and cost-effective HVAC solutions. That is why we are thrilled to announce that we are now offering the game-changing Bryant 37MUH Crossover Heat Pump, paired with the versatile 45MUAA Air Handler.

If you are a homeowner considering an upgrade to an all-electric heating and cooling system, you might be looking at traditional options like the Bryant Preferred 2 Stage Heat Pump (248TA unit paired with the FT5 air handler). While the 2-stage Preferred system has long been a reliable, mid-tier workhorse, Bryant’s new Crossover technology changes the equation entirely—offering premium, variable-speed inverter comfort at a highly competitive price point.

Let’s break down exactly what a crossover heat pump is and how it stacks up against traditional 2-stage systems to help you decide which is right for your home.

What exactly is a "Crossover" Heat Pump?

A crossover heat pump bridges the gap between traditional ducted central air and modern ductless technology. The outdoor unit looks like a slim, side-discharge ductless mini-split, but is fully optimized for central heating and engineered to pair seamlessly with a traditional, ducted electric indoor air handler.

Head-to-Head: Bryant Crossover vs. Traditional 2-Stage Preferred

To show you why we are so excited about this new offering, let's look at the numbers. At a very similar price point—and in many equipment sizes, actually cheaper than the 2-stage system—the Crossover system brings major upgrades to the table.

1. Heating Efficiency & Extreme Cold Capacity

Traditional heat pumps historically struggle when the temperature plunges, requiring expensive auxiliary electric heat kits to kick in. The Crossover system is engineered specifically to eliminate this bottleneck.

2. Space Savings (Outdoor Footprint)

If you have a tight zero-lot-line property, a narrow alleyway, or want to maximize your patio space, the visual difference outdoors is massive.

• Traditional 2-Stage (248TA): A large, traditional "cube" footprint measuring roughly 35" x 35" x 38" and weighing 260 lbs.
• Crossover (37MUH): A ultra-slim, side-discharge profile measuring just 16" x 38" x 38" and weighing 208 lbs.

3. Fully Variable Comfort & Humidity Control

While a 2-stage system only has two speeds (high and low), the Bryant Crossover features a fully variable-speed inverter compressor. It modulates up and down in tiny increments to match your home's exact needs. This results in incredibly precise temperature matching, whisper-quiet operation, and vastly superior summer humidity control.

Is the Crossover Right for You?

While the Crossover system boasts incredible specs, it shines brightest in specific home applications.

Perfect For: All-Electric Homes & Attic AC Conversions

• No Electrical Upgrades Required (Boiler Backups): If your home uses a traditional boiler for heating and has a separate AC system ducted in the attic, the Crossover is a a great fit. The indoor 45MUAA air handler can run on a standard 120v circuit. This means if you keep your boiler for emergency backup heat, you can upgrade your AC to a high-efficiency heat pump without the costs of running a heavy-duty 240v electrical line up to your attic. Many homes in Maryland can eliminate the boiler entirely thanks to the high heat output of the crossover systems at single digit temperatures. Make sure to have a Manual J load calculation before taking this step.
• Maximized Rebates: Thanks to its high HSPF2 ratings, the Crossover system qualifies for top-tier electric utility rebate programs, keeping more money in your pocket on day one.
• Smart Thermostat Friendly: Unlike older inverter technologies that forced you to use proprietary, expensive thermostats, the Crossover system maintains full variable functionality using popular consumer smart thermostats like the ecobee or Nest.

When the Crossover Heat Pumps Aren’t the Top Choice:

• Dual-Fuel (Hybrid) Systems: If you intend to pair your outdoor heat pump with a gas or propane furnace rather than an all-electric air handler, the traditional 2-stage Preferred system is actually more efficient in a dual-fuel configuration. The Crossover is purpose-built and optimized for all-electric homes or those making the complete conversion to all-electric.
• Top Tier Cooling Performance: While the Crossover has market leading heating performance, its cooling performance does not meet the top tier cooling performance of the Bryant Evolution Heat Pumps. The evolution heat pumps have the same high heat output at single digit temperature but they offer superior cooling efficiency, up to 23SEER2, and humidity control in the summer, removing up to 75% more humidity than the crossover units. The evolution series also pairs well in dual fuel set ups with gas or propane back up heat while still delivering exceptional heating and cooling performance when run in heat pump mode.

Ready to Upgrade Your Comfort?

The Bryant 37MUH Crossover system brings premium, variable-speed inverter performance down to a standard, accessible price tier. You get lower utility bills, double the cold-weather heating capacity, and a sleek outdoor footprint—often for less than the cost of a traditional 2-stage system.

Want to see if a Bryant Crossover system is a match for your home? Get in touch with us today.