Is a Heat Pump or a Furnace Better for Your Home?
As a homeowner, if you have ever walked into a warm home on a cold day or walked into a cool house on a warm day, you understand the importance of being able to control the temperature in your home. A question that homeowners have to answer is whether they will purchase a heat pump or furnace. Both heating solutions have pros and cons. One of the most significant determining factors is the climate where you live.
This post will evaluate the differences between a heat pump and a furnace. We will discuss their cost, performance, installation, and more. In the end, you will have the information you need to decide which device is suitable for your home.
Learn More About a Heat Pump
Heat pumps work to both heat and cool your home. They can be an energy-efficient alternative to purchasing an air conditioner or furnace.
A heat pump runs on electricity. It transfers heat from a cool space to a warmer one. It will take heat from the outdoors and transfer it into your home during the winter. It will take the heat from inside your house during the summer and replace it with cooler air.
A heat pump works more efficiently than a furnace because it is not generating heat. It is relocating it. Although a heat pump can’t generate heat, it can still make your home feel comfortable during temperate winter conditions.
Learn More About a Furnace
A furnace is the heating system that you are probably most familiar with. This heating appliance will use a fuel source, like oil, natural gas, or propane, to heat your home. There are also electric units that are gaining in popularity.
Fuel-based units will use a pilot light or some form of ignition to ignite the gas. The gas burns and creates heat, which is then distributed to your home.
Gas-based furnaces have a burner that will burn the fuel to produce heat. A heat exchanger will transfer the heat to the air. The blower will then distribute the heat into your home’s air ducts and throughout your home. A flute will help remove dangerous exhaust, gases, and other byproducts from your home, keeping your family safe.
Heat Pump Vs. Furnace Cost
When comparing a heat pump to a furnace, one of the first things you are going to look at is the cost. The cost will vary based on what device your home is equipped for. If your home has direct access to natural gas, a furnace may be more affordable. Conversely, if your home does not have natural gas access, the installation set up for natural gas plus the cost of the furnace will be considerably more than purchasing a heat pump. Everything else being equal, a heat pump is typically the most affordable option.
Maintenance
A heat pump and a furnace are going to require maintenance. A furnace has fewer moving parts, so it does not require as much maintenance as a heat pump. Additionally, a furnace is only going to be working during the winter months to keep your house warm. However, a heat pump works all year round, providing heating and cooling for your home.
Performance
The climate where you live is the biggest factor in determining how a furnace or heat pump will function. A furnace burns fuel to generate heat. Heat pumps only transfer heat from the inside to the outside of your home.
A heat pump can work exceptionally well if you live in moderate temperatures. This doesn’t mean that a heat pump will be useless in colder climates. However, the colder it gets outside, the harder it is for a heat pump to transfer heat. Conversely, your furnace will generate heat regardless of how cold it is outside.
Energy Efficiency
A heat pump is the clear winner when it comes to energy efficiency. A heat pump does not generate heat. It just transfers it. It needs a lot less energy to function. However, heat pumps must work a lot harder in colder climates. The colder the climate gets, the more energy-efficient a furnace becomes.
Which One Is Best?
At Ken Parker Service, Inc., we don’t see it as a question of which one is best and more of a question of which one is right for your needs. If you live in an area where it is cold during the winter, a furnace may be right for you. A heat pump may be right for you if you live in a moderate climate.
As the leading provider of home comfort systems in Greenville, TX, our NATE-certified technicians can help you with commercial or residential heating and cooling. Whether your home or business needs heating services, indoor air quality services, ductwork, service inspections, or maintenance plans, we are the ones you should call. Call Ken Parker Service, Inc. today to learn more about our award-winning services in Northeast Texas.
