Is a heat pump or furnace the best heating option for your home? The answer to this requires examining a few aspects of your home and gaining more insight into the differences between a heat pump and a furnace. Here’s some information the experts from Reynold’s Air and Heat in Florida use to help you answer the question, “Heat pump vs. furnace: Which should you choose?”
What is a Heat Pump?
Is a heat pump or furnace the best heating option for your home? The answer to this requires examining a few aspects of your home and gaining more insight into the differences between a heat pump and a furnace. Here’s some information the experts from Reynold’s Air and Heat in Florida use to help you answer the question, “Heat pump vs. furnace: Which should you choose?”
Because this type of heat pump handles both cooling and heating, homeowners may not need to install separate systems to heat their homes. This is especially true in locations like Brevard County, Florida where we rarely experience cold temperatures. Also, unlike other HVAC systems, heat pumps do not burn fossil fuel like furnaces do, making them more environmentally friendly.
How is a Furnace Different From a Heat Pump?
As a heating system, a heat pump‘s energy source is heat from the air, water, or ground which it transfers inside your home. In Florida, most residents use an air-source heat pump, whereas a furnace is its own heat source. This heat is then dispersed throughout your home using ductwork, fans, and other measures. A heat pump is ideal for areas that experience warmer outdoor temperatures.
Gas furnaces are becoming more efficient every year. Modern residential gas furnaces are natural gas furnaces or propane with air, then burn this mixture internally to create heat. The system then transfers this heat energy to the air in the home via a heat exchanger. This keeps exhaust gases out of living areas, helping to maintain good air quality. The furnace distributes air throughout the house just like the heat pump. A fan moves the heated air to various parts of the home through metal ducts. Additional ducts direct cool air back to the furnace for heating.
Dual Fuel Systems
A dual-fuel system is a home heating and cooling system that pairs an electric heat pump with a gas furnace and alternates between the two fuel sources to maximize comfort and efficiency. A dual-fuel heat pump works in conjunction with a central gas furnace. During the summer months, the heat pump works like a high-efficiency air conditioner. In mild climates and fall weather, it provides cost-effective and efficient heat. As the temperatures drop in the cold weather, the pump shuts off and lets your furnace take over as a backup heat source.
Should You Purchase a Heat Pump or Furnace?
Now that we’ve identified the differences between these types of systems, it is time to evaluate which is best for you to purchase. A lot of this comes down to your individual needs, preferences, and priorities regarding the differences in the units. Some of these refer to the cost of the different types of units, how often you are in your home, the type of dwelling place, and preferences related to energy efficiency. Below are some of the questions you may want to ask yourself.
Cost of a Heat Pump and Fuel Costs
Other Questions to Consider When Purchasing a Heat Pump or Furnace:
- Is your home in Florida your main residence? If you are never there in any colder months that is a consideration.
- Does your home already have a furnace or heat pump? This will drastically impact your installation costs.
- Are you building a new home or updating an older home? A professional can help you determine which might be best for the age of your residence.
- If you have a furnace, what type of fuel does it use? This may impact your choices and the types of units to choose from.
- Are you more concerned with initial cost or long-term energy efficiency? Your immediate and long-term financial goals will help drive your decision.
Installation Costs & Long-Term Energy Costs
One key factor is your upfront costs vs. long-term energy costs. For most people, many types of heat pumps are going to be a more significant upfront investment. However, most studies agree that heat pumps save money for homeowners’ operating costs in the long run as they are more energy efficient.
Additionally, remember any time you include a furnace as part of your home heating system, air filter maintenance will still be part of your HVAC regular maintenance.
If you are still unsure which common type of heating system is best for your situation, please contact Reynolds Air and Heat, located in Brevard County, FL which offers free estimates and military discounts.