Heat Pump vs. Furnace

A heat pump system does not generate heat; it gathers heat energy from outside air and distributes warmth inside. On the other hand, a furnace is a heat source using a combustion process to produce heat When it comes to heating your home – you’ve got these options. And unless you’re a seasoned pro (not likely), understanding how to choose the right heating system can feel overwhelming. Not to worry, here’s what you need to know to make the right choice.

WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP?

A heat pump, as part of a central heating and cooling system, uses the outside air to both heat a home in winter and cool it in summer. Basically, that means your heat pump will act as an air conditioner when things get hot and a heater when it’s cold outside – making heat pumps one versatile product. In addition to its flexibility, heat pumps are also energy-efficient. Think of a heat pump as a heat transporter constantly moving warm air from one place to another, to where it’s needed or not needed, depending on the season. In the winter, the pump extracts heat from the outdoor air or ground and distributes it to your home. In the summer, hot air from inside your home is removed – creating a cooler indoor environment.

WHAT IS A FURNACE?

A furnace, as part of a central heating and cooling system, converts fuel into cozy heat that’s then delivered throughout your home. All furnaces consist of four main components: burners that deliver and burn fuel,  heat ex changers, a blower and a flue that acts as an exhaust for gaseous by-products. Depending on your situation, region and needs, you can choose from heating systems running on either gas or oil as fuel.

Understanding that every home and homeowner need is different, there are some general recommendations that can help you decide what heating source is right for you.

Deciding Between a Heat Pump or a Furnace

Generally, the climate of the area you live in is a good determiner of whether a heat pump or furnace is best. But there are other questions to ask yourself:

• Is cost a factor? Heat pumps are more expensive upfront but operation savings could end up paying for your unit.
• Do you want a longer lifespan? Furnaces tend to have a 5 to 10-year longer life span when compared to heat pumps.
• Is space an issue? Heat pumps are one unit for both heating and cooling.
• Do you want warmer air? Furnaces produce hotter air to warm your home.
• Do you live in a mild climate? Most of the Portland area has a mild climate making a heat pump a good option. Higher elevations that get colder might do better with a furnace.

A heat pump may be right for you if you live in a mild climate.

If your winters average around 30-40 degrees F, heat pumps could be the perfect fit for your home. A climate like the Southeast that has milder winters works well for a heat pump. In addition, locations with low electric rates are prime candidates for heat pumps.

A furnace may be right for you if you live in a cold climate.

If your winters are bitterly cold and have temperatures consistently below freezing a furnace may be the best choice for you. Furnaces fare better in cold-weather climates because they don’t depend on the outdoor temperatures to convert to heat.