You have options when it comes to heating your home. Most homeowners feel overwhelmed trying to choose the right heating system. Both heat pumps and furnaces heat your home in different ways. Learn what system could be right for you.
What Is a Heat Pump?
Heat pumps use outdoor air to heat and cool your home. When the temperatures outside are hot, your heat pump works as an air conditioner. When temperatures outside your home are cool, the heat pump keeps the inside of your home warm.
Heat pumps are versatile, flexible, and energy-efficient. Heat pumps move warm air from where it is needed to where it is not. During the winter, it takes heat from the ground and distributes it in your home. It removes the hot air from outside your home during the summer, making your home cooler.
What Is a Furnace?
A furnace is a crucial part of your HVAC system. It takes fuel, like natural gas, propane, or oil, and converts it to heat. The heat is distributed through your home. Furnaces have four key components. The burner burns the fuel. Heat exchangers heat the air. Blowers circulate the heat through your ductwork. The flute removes dangerous exhaust from your home. The type of fuel you choose for your furnace will vary based on where you live and the available fuels.
A Dual Fuel System
A heat pump and gas furnace can work together as a hybrid system. Your heat pump will operate when temperatures are moderate. Your furnace will activate when the outdoor temperatures get so cold that your heat pump loses effectiveness. With a dual fuel system, you have the best of both worlds. This system is energy efficient and can save you a lot of money.
The Cost of Installing a Fuel Pump Versus a Furnace
Factors like your home’s capability and your current heating setup will impact the cost of installing a fuel pump or a furnace. For example, if your home does not have access to natural gas, furnace installation is more expensive than installing a fuel pump. On the other hand, installing a heat pump becomes more costly if you do not have the electrical wiring needed for supplemental heat for a heat pump. Our expert technicians at Air Care Heating & Cooling can inspect your home and help you determine whether a furnace or fuel pump is the most cost-efficient option for you.
Energy Efficiency
All things being equal, a heat pump transfers up to three times more energy than it consumes. Conversely, an ultra-efficiency gas furnace is 95% efficient. Since the pump uses electricity, you save money on fuel consumption. Heat pumps are more than 100% efficient in climates with moderate temperatures. A fuel pump works as an air conditioner and heater.
Air Quality Concerns
We can help you make the same indoor air quality (IAQ) for a gas furnace or a heat pump. Our technicians can offer whole-home air cleaner and air ventilation options. These options will help improve your home’s air quality.
Which One Works Better During Cold Weather?
Gas furnaces are clear winners in this category. Since they burn fuel, they can keep you warm regardless of how cold it gets outside. If you live in Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan, New York, or Wisconsin, where the temperatures frequently drop below freezing, your heat pump may have a hard time keeping your home warm.
Supplemental systems can work in tandem with your heat pump, causing your furnace to kick in on frigid days. However, the systems are energy-greedy. A dual system allows you to get the energy efficiency benefits of a heat pump while retaining the warmth-generating capability of a furnace.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Again, the furnace wins. If you properly maintain your furnace, it can last for over 20 years. Heat pumps have a 15-year lifespan. This is because the heating elements of your gas furnace are only activated during the winter months. However, since your heat pump works as a heater and air conditioner, it is working all year round. This creates more wear and tear on the unit. Additionally, gas furnaces do not have a lot of moving parts. There are fewer things that will break down or malfunction.
Dependable HVAC Services
A functioning furnace or heat pump should not be taken for granted. We can help you ensure a suitable unit for your home. Our experienced technicians are NCI certified and are members of the ACCA. Whether you need heating, boilers, commercial work, or indoor quality control, contact Air Care Heating & Cooling today. Our technicians stand ready to provide reliable help.
