Which heating system moves heat without creating or eliminating it?

The heating system that moves heat without creating or eliminating it is a heat pump. A heat pump operates on the principle of heat transfer, where it absorbs heat from one location (such as the outside air or ground) and moves it to another location (such as the inside of a building) without generating heat in the process. It works by using a refrigeration cycle that involves the evaporation and condensation of refrigerants, enabling it to transfer heat efficiently.

In contrast, other heating systems, such as furnaces and boilers, generate heat by burning fuel or heating water, which directly creates heat within the system. Radiant heating, while it can distribute heat effectively, typically relies on a source of heat that must be created or eliminated. Thus, the heat pump is unique in its ability to move existing heat rather than produce new heat, allowing for more efficient thermal management in multifamily buildings.