Many homeowners struggle to decide between a heat pump and a furnace. The key to choosing is knowing which one of these systems fits your home's needs and budget, because both have unique strengths.
According to the US Energy Information Administration, about 55% of home energy use in 2021 went toward heating, cooling, and ventilation. That means the system you choose for your space will affect your comfort and determine how much you spend on energy bills.
Doing a heat pump vs furnace comparison is the best way to make a smart choice.
Which Is Better, a Heat Pump or a Furnace?
There's no answer that is suitable for every homeowner. Your best home heating options depend on:
- Where you live
- How well your home is insulated
- Your comfort preferences
In Boston and other areas in Massachusetts, winters can be brutal. A furnace will make your home warmer, but you can still use a heat pump, though it won't work efficiently on freezing nights.
Do I Need a Furnace if I Get a Heat Pump?
Not always. Warm areas can do with a standalone heat pump because it can easily handle all your heating and cooling needs. A backup system is worth your money when living in a colder area. You can get a furnace that uses gas or choose an electric one.
When you have a dual system, it will switch to the furnace when temperatures drop too low for the heat pump to work efficiently. You can use the heat pump on other days of the year when the temperatures aren't too low.
Heat Pump vs Furnace: Which One Should You Get?
Comparing heating systems is a key step to take when you want your space to be more comfortable. You need a system that will handle the shifting temperatures without costing you too much money.
Climate and Performance
Boston winters aren't mild, and for our kind of weather, you need a furnace. They generate high heat fast and keep your home cozy even when frost covers your windows.
The inverter-driven compressors that newer heat pumps come with can pull heat from outside air even in extreme weather. They are more efficient than older models.
Energy Efficiency
Heat pumps may be a great option if energy efficiency is your top priority. According to the US Department of Energy, a standard air-source heat pump can produce 2-4 times more heat energy for your home than the amount of electricity it uses.
Furnace efficiency has improved, too, but it still doesn't match the level you'll get with a heat pump. If you get a high-efficiency heat pump, it's possible to still save energy without sacrificing warmth.
Comfort and Air Quality
A heat pump provides steady, gentle warmth and doesn't dry the air as much as a gas furnace. You can tell the difference because your skin may feel drier sometimes. The units are quieter, which is among the most popular heat pump benefits.
Furnaces also have their perks, like being able to heat up spaces fast. They're great for when you come home on a freezing night and want instant warmth.
If you don't want to deal with the noise, start considering furnace installation from pros. Experts can recommend newer models with variable-speed blowers that reduce drafts and improve indoor air quality. These are more comfortable than older units.
Lifespan and Maintenance
A furnace typically lasts 20 to 25 years, while a heat pump averages around 15 years. The short lifespan is because it runs year-round for both heating and cooling.
To maintain your furnace, you just need to do an annual service before winter. Heat pumps require at least two checkups. You should do one before the heating season and repeat right before the colder months. Both systems need basic maintenance, such as:
- Cleaning the filters
- Regular tune-ups
- Keeping the areas around the systems clear
Cost and Installation
If you decide to go for a furnace, the cost for installation will be lower. It makes more sense if your home already has natural gas lines.
A heat pump is more complex since it handles all your space cooling and heating. The cost to install heat pump systems may be higher upfront, but you can save money on energy bills in the long run.
It's possible to balance your costs between now and a few years later by pairing your heat pump with a furnace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use My Existing Ductwork With a New System?
In many cases, yes. A professional will inspect your ducts to check for leaks or damage since poor airflow reduces efficiency. You don't have to worry about incurring more costs for ductwork if yours are in great condition.
Adjustments will be necessary if they are older or undersized.
Does a Heat Pump Work During Power Outages?
No. Just like most electric systems, a heat pump won't work when there's no power. A backup plan will keep your home comfortable all year. If you get a generator, it can keep your heat pump running when there's an outage.
How Can I Lower My Heating Bills in Winter?
You may be paying high energy bills because your home isn't properly insulated. When you seal gaps, you prevent the warm air from escaping, which makes your heating solution work less hard.
Before leaving your home, try setting your thermostat a few degrees lower. Installing a smart thermostat can also make a big difference since it learns your schedule and adjusts automatically.
Saving money in the long run will be easier if you keep up with maintenance.
Choose the Best Home Heating Option
A heat pump vs furnace comparison is mostly about your needs or preferences. Furnaces work great in Boston because their efficiency when temperatures are freezing is great.
If you have a heat pump too, you can use it on days that aren't that cold, and your home will still be comfortable. When upgrading an old system or building a new home, it helps to talk to the experts instead of just deciding on your own.
Figuring out the benefits of each system makes choosing less stressful. Check our news for guidance on home comfort solutions.
This article was prepared by an independent contributor and helps us continue to deliver quality news and information.
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