If You’re in the Market for a New Furnace, Here’s Why You Should Be Looking at a Heat Pump

If it’s time to replace your old furnace, don’t assume that a new furnace is the only option. This may be the go-to choice for most North American households, but heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular. Still, the question remains: Is a heat pump your ideal heating system? Explore several persuasive reasons to try a heat pump, how it compares to a traditional furnace and whether a heat pump is the most efficient choice for your home comfort needs.

How Are Heat Pumps Different Than Furnaces?

The core design between a heat pump and a traditional furnace is inherently different. Furnaces burn combustible materials like natural gas, oil or propane to generate heat. On the other hand, heat pumps use electricity and refrigerant to move heat. This key difference influences the equipment’s efficiency, environmental impact and versatility.

Modern condensing furnaces have high AFUE ratings, which is certainly appealing. But an AFUE rating only illustrates the furnace’s ability to convert fuel to heat—it won’t account for the whole energy footprint involved in the extraction, refining and transportation of said fuel.

In comparison, a heat pump’s efficiency is measured by its heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). While it’s challenging to compare these numbers at first glance, know that heat pumps frequently offer stronger performance than furnaces.

Top Reasons to Choose Heat Pump Installation

Here’s why more and more homeowners are considering a heat pump for their year-round heating and cooling needs.

1. Lower Energy Bills

The operating cost is the first thing that comes to mind when deciding on a new home appliance. Furnaces can be highly efficient, but they max out at approximately 98% efficiency. On the other hand, heat pumps are capable of providing three times more heat energy than the electrical energy consumed in the process. In other words, heat pumps can be three times as efficient under proper operating conditions. This cost-effective performance leads to more manageable utility bills.

H3: 2. Eco-Friendly Heating

Your household’s environmental footprint could be much smaller with a heat pump. While electric furnaces can be found, traditional gas-fired furnaces run on natural gas or oil, the production and distribution of which negatively impacts the planet. A heat pump operates without burning fuel, reducing your home’s environmental impact, especially if you also have solar panels to produce green electricity from the sun.

3. Heating and Cooling Versatility

One of the most notable features of a heat pump is its dual heating and cooling functionality. It’s an effective heating system in the winter and doubles as your air conditioner for the summer. Thanks to a simple built-in switch, the heat pump switches its operation and pulls out warm air from your home, similar to a standard AC unit. This two-in-one solution appeals to many homeowners.

4. Quiet Operation

Heat pumps operate more quietly than traditional furnaces as they don’t have to burn fuel to generate heat. No combustion means less noise, resulting in a quieter living space.

5. Easy Transition

If your home already has ductwork, transitioning to a heat pump is quick and straightforward. The air handler will end up where your furnace is currently located, and the outdoor unit replaces your air conditioner. It’s as simple as that.

Are Heat Pumps Right for Everyone?

While heat pumps are innovative and energy efficient, they may not fit every situation. Heating efficiency declines in severe cold, making heat pumps less ideal in regions with long, cold winters. However, advancements in cold-climate technology are making heat pumps more efficient overall in colder climates, so be on the lookout for models designed to work in such settings.

It’s also worth pointing out that the up-front cost of investing in a high-quality heat pump is often higher than a traditional furnace. However, it means you don’t have to purchase an air conditioner. If both systems are starting to show their age, you may actually save money up front by upgrading them with a heat pump. Plus, you’ll gain back any investment cost through lower energy bills over time.

If your home is missing the necessary ductwork, putting it in increases your up-front costs. But furnaces need ductwork too, so this doesn’t necessarily favor choosing a furnace over a heat pump. In fact, ductless heat pumps are available for older homes and additions where ductwork isn’t present.

Finally, a heat pump’s efficiency benefits decrease if you live in an area with higher than average electricity costs. You can offset this by putting up solar panels, which generate electricity from the sun to power your heat pump, light bulbs, electronics and more.

Choose Winnipeg Supply Service Experts

Still not sure if a heat pump is right for you? Consult Winnipeg Supply Service Experts, and our installers can help you decide if a heat pump matches your heating and cooling needs. Then, whether you opt for a heat pump or a traditional furnace, we can install your new system above and beyond your expectations. Contact us today to request a free installation estimate.