Need a New Heating System? Consider a Heat Pump

If it’s time to replace your old furnace, don’t assume that a new furnace is your only choice. This may be the preferred choice for most North American homes, but heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular. Still, the question remains: Is a heat pump the best choice for you? Explore several persuasive reasons to try a heat pump, how it compares to a traditional furnace and whether a heat pump is the most efficient choice for your home comfort needs.

How Is a Heat Pump Different from a Furnace?

The core design between a heat pump and a traditional furnace is essentially different. Furnaces burn combustible substances such as natural gas, oil or propane to generate heat. On the other hand, heat pumps use electricity and refrigerant to move heat. This core difference influences the equipment’s efficiency, environmental impact and versatility.

Modern condensing furnaces have high annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings, which is certainly appealing. But this only relates to the furnace’s ability to convert fuel to heat—it can’t account for the whole 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 difficult to compare these numbers at first glance, understand that heat pumps often offer stronger performance than 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 considering a new home appliance. Furnaces are very efficient, but they max out at around 98% efficiency. On the other hand, heat pumps are capable of providing three times more heat energy than the electrical energy consumed in the process. In other words, heat pumps can be three times as efficient under proper operating conditions. This cost-effective performance leads to more manageable utility bills.

2. Eco-Friendly Heating

Your household’s environmental footprint could be more modest with a heat pump. While electric furnaces are available, traditional gas-fired furnaces run on combustible natural gas or heating oil, the production and distribution of which has a detrimental effect on the planet. A heat pump operates without burning fuel, limiting your home’s environmental impact, particularly if you also have solar panels to generate cleaner electricity from the sun.

3. Heating and Cooling Capabilities

One of the most notable features of a heat pump is its flexibility. It’s an effective heating system in the winter and doubles as your air conditioner during the summer. Thanks to a simple built-in switch, the heat pump switches its operation and draws out warm air from your home, much like a standard AC unit. This two-in-one solution is highly desireable to many homeowners.

4. Quiet Operation

Heat pumps operate less noisily than traditional furnaces because they don’t have to ignite fuel to generate heat. No combustion means less noise, resulting in a more peaceful living space.

5. Easy Transition

If your home has existing ductwork, transitioning to a heat pump is a fast, easy process. The air handler goes 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 impressive, they may not suit every situation. Heating efficiency drops in severe cold, making heat pumps less effective in regions with harsh winters. That being said, advancements in cold-climate technology are making heat pumps more efficient overall in colder climates, so keep your eye out for models designed to continue working in these kinds of climates.

It’s also worth pointing out that the up-front cost of buying a high-quality heat pump is generally higher than a forced-air furnace. However, it also means you won’t have to buy an air conditioner. If both systems are noticeably less efficient, you may actually save money up front by upgrading them with a heat pump. Plus, you’ll recoup any investment cost through lower energy bills over time.

If your home is missing the necessary ductwork, installing it increases your up-front costs. But furnaces need ductwork too, so this doesn’t necessarily prefer selecting 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 putting up solar panels, which generate electricity from the sun to power your heat pump, light bulbs, electronics and more.

Choose Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning

Still not sure if a heat pump is ideal for you? Consult Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and our Experts can help you decide if a heat pump matches your heating and cooling needs. Then, whether you opt for a heat pump or a traditional furnace, we can put in your new system above and beyond your expectations. Contact us today to request a free installation estimate.