Heat pumps and furnaces work hard to warm your home. However, these heating units are not the same. Think of them as first cousins. The team at Performance AC is well-versed in handling heat pumps and furnaces—but what differentiates the two? And which one should you choose for your home? Continue reading to find out.
What Is a Furnace?
A furnace is an appliance that is used to heat your entire home. Gas furnaces work by burning combustible fuel, and electric furnaces work the same way as your hairdryer. If you live in a colder climate, such as the Midwest or upper East Coast, a furnace will work in your favor. That’s because furnaces don’t draw air from the outside. Instead, they generate heat from an internal source.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is another type of appliance used for home heating. Heat pumps draw air from the outdoors. It doesn’t have to be warm out for a heat pump to generate warm air—although heat pumps are typically more efficient in milder climates. Heat pumps use a refrigerant and an outdoor air compressor to help generate and redistribute heat into your home. Heat pumps can also cool your home down during the summer months.
Heat Pump vs. Furnaces: Which one is the Best?
There are pros and cons to everything, including your chosen heating system. Heat pumps and furnaces both deliver the same results, but what can you expect out of a heat pump versus a furnace?
Cost
Cost is a big factor in determining whether or not you choose a furnace or heat pump. While heat pump installation costs can vary between $4,000 and $7,500, furnace installation costs come at a higher price point on average and range from $4,800 and $9,000. Heat pumps are therefore usually cheaper to install than furnaces.
Efficiency
To piggyback off of cost factors, a heat pump will be more efficient in terms of energy consumption and savings. Heat pumps use fewer amounts of energy compared to furnaces. It takes a lot of fuel and electricity to generate heat, which is why furnaces cost more. Heat pumps use much less energy than a furnace, making them more cost-efficient in the long run.
If energy cost savings are important to you, a heat pump will work in your favor.
Noise
Heat pumps and furnaces produce noise, but furnaces are much quieter than heat pumps. Heat pumps often produce clicking and knocking sounds, while furnaces only produce a soft whirr of air. Furnaces are also often installed in basements, which keeps any noises at bay.
Space
If space is a concern, then a heat pump could work to your benefit. Furnaces typically need a lot of square footage, whereas heat pumps need a minimum of 24 inches in clearance.
Heat Pump & Furnace Services by Performance AC
It’s a known fact that Florida can get chilly in the winter. That’s why it’s important to have a reliable heating system in your home. Performance AC won’t just help you choose between a heat pump and a furnace—we’ll also take care of all your repairs, maintenance, and installation needs.
If you need a new heating and cooling system or require expert repair services, don’t delay to contact our crew. We work around the clock to provide the best 24-hour heating services for your household.