Need a New Heating System? Consider a Heat Pump
If it’s time to replace your old furnace, don’t move forward thinking a new furnace is the only option. This may be the default choice for most North American homes, but heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular. Still, the question remains: Is a heat pump the right fit for everyone? Explore several compelling reasons to consider a heat pump, how it is distinct from a traditional furnace and whether a heat pump is the best choice for your home comfort needs.
How Does a Heat Pump Differ from a Furnace?
The underlying technology between a heat pump and a traditional furnace is essentially different. Furnaces burn fuel—including natural gas, oil or propane to generate heat. On the other hand, heat pumps use electricity and refrigerant to move heat. This key difference affects the equipment’s efficiency, environmental impact and versatility.
Modern condensing furnaces feature high AFUE ratings, which is undoubtedly appealing. But this only relates to the furnace’s ability to convert fuel to heat—it can’t account for the entire energy footprint involved in the extraction, refining and transportation of said fuel.
By comparison, a heat pump’s efficiency is measured by its HSPF. While it’s not easy to compare these numbers at first glance, understand that heat pumps frequently outperform furnaces.
Top Reasons to Choose Heat Pump Installation
Here’s why more and more homeowners are considering a heat pump for their year-round heating and cooling needs.
1. Lower Energy Bills
The operating cost is the first thing that comes to mind when deciding on a new home appliance. Furnaces are very efficient, but they max out at approximately 98% efficiency. On the other hand, heat pumps are capable of providing three times more heat energy than the electrical energy consumed throughout the process. In other words, heat pumps can be 300% efficient under proper operating conditions. This cost-effective performance leads to lower utility bills.
2. Eco-Friendly Heating
Your household’s environmental footprint could be more modest with a heat pump. While electric furnaces exist, traditional gas-fired furnaces run on natural gas or oil, the production and distribution of which negatively impacts the planet. A heat pump operates without burning fuel, limiting your home’s environmental impact, especially if you also have solar panels to produce cleaner electricity from the sun.
3. Heating and Cooling Versatility
One of the most innovative features of a heat pump is its dual heating and cooling functionality. It’s an effective wintertime heater and doubles as your air conditioner in the summer. Thanks to a simple built-in switch, the heat pump changes its operation and draws out warm air from your home, just like a standard AC unit. This two-in-one solution is highly desireable to many homeowners.
4. Quiet Operation
Heat pumps run more quietly than traditional furnaces because they don’t have to combust fuel to generate heat. No combustion means less noise, resulting in a calmer living space.
5. Easy Transition
If your home is already equipped with ductwork, transitioning to a heat pump is quick and straightforward. The air handler will end up where your furnace is currently located, and the outdoor unit replaces your air conditioner. It’s .
Are Heat Pumps Right for Everyone?
While heat pumps are innovative and energy efficient, they may not suit every situation. Heating efficiency is much more limited in extreme cold, making heat pumps less suitable in regions with harsh winters. However, advancements in cold-climate technology are making heat pumps more efficient overall in the far north, so be on the lookout for models designed to work in such settings.
It’s also worth noting that the initial cost of investing in a high-quality heat pump is frequently higher than a traditional furnace. However, it means you don’t have to buy an air conditioner. If both systems are starting to show their age, you may actually save money up front by replacing them with a heat pump. Plus, you’ll gain back any investment cost through lower energy bills over time.
If your home doesn’t already have the required ductwork, installing it adds to your up-front costs. But furnaces need ductwork too, so this doesn’t necessarily lean toward choosing a furnace over a heat pump. In fact, ductless heat pumps are available for older homes and additions where ductwork isn’t present.
Finally, a heat pump’s efficiency benefits decrease if you live in an area with higher than average electricity costs. You can mitigate this by installing solar panels, which generate electricity from the sun to power your heat pump, light bulbs, electronics and more.
Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
Still not sure if a heat pump is the right choice for you? Consult Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, and our Experts can help you figure out if a heat pump matches your heating and cooling needs. Then, whether you opt for a heat pump or a traditional furnace, we can set up your new system above and beyond your expectations. Contact us today to request a free installation estimate.
Save Money on Your Home Comfort System
View our Rebate Center to see which home comfort system rebates are currently active in your area.