If you’re trying to determine the best way to heat your home, you’re probably wondering whether to go with a furnace or a heat pump. Both have their pros and cons, which we’ll compare in this post. As a Coquitlam-based heating company, we want to give you the scoop on these two popular options so you can determine the right fit for your home.
Understanding the Basics: Furnace Vs Heat Pump
First, let’s quickly cover how each system works. Simply put, a furnace generates heat via electricity or by burning fuel like natural gas or propane. The heat then moves through ductwork to warm up your home. Furnaces use an electric motor and fan to circulate the air. On the other hand, a heat pump doesn’t create heat directly. Instead, it moves existing heat from outside and releases it indoors (or vice versa to cool your home!). Heat pumps run on electricity and use a refrigeration cycle to absorb ambient heat and pump it into your home through vents. Pretty neat!Efficiency Comparison: Which Uses Less Energy?
When it comes to efficiency, heat pumps tend to be more energy efficient in mild to moderate climates. Their ability to transfer “free” outdoor heat means they use way less electricity than furnaces, up to 50% less! However, once temps drop below freezing, heat pumps lose some of that efficiency and need to use supplemental electric heating. Furnaces give you steady heat no matter the weather, but they use more fuel to generate heat directly. That said, newer high-efficiency gas furnaces can offer over 90% efficiency. For milder climates, heat pumps are hard to beat, but in very cold regions, furnaces may make more sense efficiency-wise.Cost Factors: Installation, Operation, and Maintenance
Installation Costs
Installation is where you’ll notice a major price difference. Furnaces with installation typically cost between $4,000-$12,000 depending on size and efficiency. Complex ductwork can drive that initial cost even higher. Heat pumps with Installation range from $3,500-$8,000, quite a bit less than a comparable furnace.Operational Costs
When looking at monthly energy bills, heat pumps often cost less to run than furnaces where winters are mild to moderate. Their efficiency means lower electricity costs each month. But in truly freezing weather, costs can jump if you have to use more backup heating.Maintenance Costs
Expect to budget $100-$300 yearly to maintain a furnace with tune-ups and inspections. Heat pumps need less maintenance, but repairs like refrigerant recharges are pricier when needed. On average, a yearly heat pump tune-ups run $100-$200.Performance in Different Climates
Cold Climates
In regions where sub-zero winter temps are common, gas furnaces are usually the best performers. Once outdoor temperatures drop below freezing, heat pumps decline in efficiency. Furnaces provide more reliable, consistent heat in extreme cold. Note that if desired, a heat pump can always be paired with a furnace or other HVAC system for backup heating.Mild to Moderate Climates
In areas where winter isn’t too harsh, heat pumps shine. Seasonal temps that don’t often dip into the deep freeze are ideal for heat pumps to work at peak efficiency. Their performance excels in mild to moderate climates.Environmental Impact
For eco-friendly heating, heat pumps are the clear winners. Rather than burning fossil fuels, they simply move existing heat, massively reducing carbon emissions. But if your electricity comes from dirty sources like coal, some of those gains are lost. When paired with solar or other renewable power, heat pumps are a very green option. By directly burning fuel to create heat, gas furnaces inevitably use more energy resources. Even electric furnaces tend to have higher electricity usage than heat pumps. Upgrading to a high-efficiency model can curb emissions and energy use. But heat pumps tend to have a lighter environmental footprint, assuming clean power sources are used – as is the case in the Lower Mainland and Coquitlam area.Lifespan and Durability
Quality gas furnaces can operate reliably for up to 20 years, while the typical lifespan of a heat pump is 10-15 years. Heat pumps in very cold regions may deteriorate faster than those in milder climates. Proper maintenance goes a long way for the longevity of both systems.Furnace Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong, steady heating, even in frigid conditions
- Long lifespan, up to 20 years
- Powerful, consistent heat output
Cons:
- Higher energy use and monthly costs
- More emissions than heat pumps
- Requires more frequent maintenance
Pros:
- Extremely efficient in mild to moderate climates
- Lower monthly heating bills
- Greener choice with lower emissions
Cons:
- Struggles to keep up in bitter cold
- Shorter lifespan around 10-15 years
- Costly repairs like refrigerant recharges
Choosing the Right System
Climate and Location
Think about your typical winter weather. Does it often plummet below zero? If so, a furnace may suit your needs better. Milder regions are ideal for heat pumps.Budget and Costs
Weigh installation costs against projected energy savings. In many cases, heat pumps make sense budget-wise for a lot of homeowners.Environmental Goals
If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, heat pumps paired with renewable electricity are the most eco-friendly route.FAQs
Is a Heat Pump Cheaper to Run Than a Furnace?
In milder climates, yes – heat pumps can significantly reduce heating expenses thanks to efficiency. However, they may use more supplementary energy in frigid conditions.
Can a Heat Pump Fully Replace a Furnace?
Possibly, depending on climate. Heat pumps can replace furnaces in temperate areas, but very cold regions may still need a furnace for backup.
Can you Have Both a Furnace and a Heat Pump?
Absolutely! While not typically needed, furnaces can be great backups for colder climates where a heat pump alone may struggle with heating.
Which System Needs More Maintenance?
Furnaces require more frequent tune-ups and checkups compared to heat pumps. But heat pump repairs can be more expensive when needed.