Heat Pump vs furnace: which is better for heating your home?

At a Glance

• Heat pumps are more energy-efficient and reduce your carbon footprint, while also offering both heating and cooling. 
• Furnaces generally have a lower initial cost, but heat pumps help you save more on energy (and your power bill) over time.
• Heating systems comparisons look different for every individual homeowner, but heat pumps will usually always be the better overall option. 

If you’re wondering “Which is better, a heat pump or a furnace?” you’re not alone. Choosing between a heat pump and a furnace is a common dilemma for homeowners looking to upgrade their HVAC systems. Both options have their own benefits and drawbacks, which means you’ll need to do your research to make the best decision for you. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences like heat pump efficiency, furnace efficiency, and the overall heating systems comparison.

Heat pump vs furnace—what’s the difference?

How do furnaces work?

Furnaces are the most traditional heating systems found in American homes. They operate by burning a fossil fuel source like natural gas, propane, or oil, which heats the air inside the furnace. The warm air is then distributed throughout the house via ductwork. Furnaces are effective for quickly heating your home, but can increase your carbon footprint and require more maintenance required to a heat pump. 

How do heat pumps work?

Instead of generating heat by burning fossil fuels, heat pumps transfer heat from one place to another. In winter, they extracts heat from the outside air and moves it indoors. In summer, they reverse the process to act like an air conditioner. Because heat pumps move heat rather than generate it, they are generally more energy-efficient than furnaces, especially in moderate climates.

Pros and cons of furnaces

Furnace efficiency and other advantages

• Lower initial cost: Furnaces are typically cheaper to purchase and install than heat pumps.
• Quick heating: Furnaces can rapidly heat a home, providing warmth almost instantly.
• Familiar technology: Most homeowners are accustomed to how furnaces operate and feel comfortable purchasing another one.

Disadvantages of furnaces

• Higher energy consumption: Furnaces consume more energy than heat pumps, which lead to higher bills and an increase in your carbon footprint..
• Requires ductwork: Installing or maintaining ductwork can be costly and complex.
• Single-function: Furnaces only provide heating, not cooling or any other function, which means you’ll need to purchase more equipment for your home than if you purchased a heat pump alone.
• Combustion: less healthy for those who have allergies, respiratory issues. Sensitive populations like young babies, children and the elderly 
• Sensitivity to fossil fuel rising costs, economic impact
• More frequent maintenance requirements

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Pros and cons of heat pumps

Heat pump efficiency and other advantages

• Energy efficiency: Heat pumps are up to three times more efficient than furnaces, making them a cost-effective choice over time.
• Multi-functionality: They provide both heating and cooling.
• Reduce carbon footprint: Heat pumps run on electricity, eliminating the risk of carbon monoxide and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Lower maintenance: Heat pumps require less maintenance than boilers as their filters only need to be cleaned, instead of replaced. 
• Versatility: Heat pumps offer zone-by zone-heating and cooling, meaning instead of using energy to power your entire home, you can program them to only run in certain rooms or zones. 
• De-humidification: Beyond just keeping your home comfortable, heat pumps also can dehumidify your home. ‍
• Safety: Heat pumps run on electricity and don’t require combustion. This completely eliminates the risk of carbon monoxide leaks in your home.

Disadvantages of heat pumps

• Higher initial cost: The upfront installation cost is usually higher than that of a furnace.
• Less effective in extreme cold: In very cold climates, a heat pump may need a supplemental heating source to perform optimally.
• Shortage of trained technicians: Because heat pumps require specialized training, it can be more difficult to find the right technician.  

Furnace vs heat pump: which is right for you?

Choosing between a furnace and a heat pump largely depends on your specific usage patterns, the climate of your home, and your financial situation. Heat pumps are generally better for people who are trying to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on their power bill. Furnaces are usually better for people looking for a lower upfront cost or living in regions with very cold winters where traditional heating methods are needed.

Stay warm with Tetra

No matter if you choose a heat pump or a furnace, Tetra can help make your HVAC upgrade more easy and affordable. Schedule your free, virtual estimate with one of our experts today. We can’t wait to help you get started and answer any questions you may have.