Heat Pump vs Furnace: How to Choose the Right Heating System

Home heating has come a long way. Thanks to new technology and smarter systems, it’s easier than ever to stay comfortable year-round. At Dauenhauer, we help homeowners choose and install the best heating systems for their homes—whether that’s a powerful furnace or a modern heat pump.

Not sure which heating system is right for you? Start by thinking about your needs. Do you want fast heat, energy savings, or something easy to control? Once you know what you’re looking for, give us a call. We’re here to help you make the best choice for your home and budget.

Understanding the Differences Between Heat Pumps and Furnaces

The furnace has been a popular home heating system in America for decades. They generate heat by burning gas, oil, or electricity and then push warm air through your home’s air ducts.

Heat pumps were introduced in the 1970s as an eco-conscious way to heat and cool air. Instead of burning fossil fuels, a heat pump transfers and converts outside air into your home. Pumps include additional customization options, such as multi-room heating and cooling and mobile controls.

The main difference is found in the accessibility and power of each system. Furnaces do what they say they will, but they may struggle with breakdowns. Heat pumps give homeowners more control but come with a high initial cost.

The Pros and Cons of Furnace Systems

When choosing a system, consider a few important factors. First, is it a cost-effective choice? Some homeowners may choose to bear the weight of the high-cost heat pump, while others would rather put their money into furnace maintenance. 

Before you speak to a Dauenhauer specialist about a local installation service, think about these furnace pros and cons:

Pros 

Furnaces are more affordable to install since they have a lower upfront cost. They also use traditional methods of operation, such as burning gas, oil, and electricity, which many people find convenient. If you keep up with the maintenance demands of a furnace, it can function for years to come.

Cons

Furnaces use up to three times more energy than heat pumps. They also have filters that need frequent replacement, which can be a headache for some. Furnaces can also have cycling issues. Even at peak consistency, home furnaces need expert attention to remain fast, powerful, and sustainable. In addition, the upfront cost can be expensive if you don’t have pre-existing ducts.

The Pros and Cons of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are an attractive heating option for many homeowners, thanks to their dual-operating capabilities. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s great and what’s not so great about a home heat pump:

Pros

If you live in a warmer climate, then a heat pump is a great option for you. Heat pumps are like a two-in-one system. Achieve fast-acting heating and cooling without the additional cost.

Although the initial cost of a heat pump can be daunting, the pros far outweigh the cons. Heat pumps save warm-climate homeowners money in the long run because they use substantially less energy to power off and on than a furnace. Quick, simple, and powerful, heat pumps do not produce unwanted noise when powered on.

Cons

There are a few cons to installing a heat pump. Yes, the initial cost can be overwhelming for homeowners. With such wide, user-friendly features and advanced technology, it makes sense that it would be more costly than the traditional furnace. 

Speak to one of our specialists about your options. 

Should You Replace Your Furnace With a Heat Pump?

Now that you know what you’re looking at, which option is best for you? Maybe you’re a homeowner who’s been faithfully using a furnace but wants to explore modern upgrades.

First, consider where you live. Is your home located in an area with torrential, cold weather? If not, you may be fine to stick with a furnace. Colder areas tend to need more substantial home heating, something you can’t find with a heat pump.

Are Heat Pumps Efficient in Cold Weather?

Yes and no. For the average household in a drier, low-stakes climate, heat pumps are enough to keep a home warm. However, you may want to double up if you live in a snow-prone area. If you have a preexisting furnace, you can use the two in tandem since heat pumps don’t require ductwork.

Cost Factors For Replacing Your Furnace With a Heat Pump

While furnaces may be more affordable upfront, you need to consider how costly repairs are. An average furnace tune-up can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. 

This is why a heat pump can be the more attractive option. Comparing the frequent money you will pay for furnace repairs with the initially large cost of a new heat pump, heat pumps are still the most cost-effective.

Dauenhauer offers competitive furnace and heat pump installation prices in Kentucky.

Can a Heat Pump Be Used With a Furnace?

Yes! You can use them together, as they are installed in separate areas. Heat pumps can cool a room while a furnace is used simply for heating, so the two are a natural pair.

Use your heat pump as your central AC unit in the hot summer months, and employ your furnace as your main heating option during the winter. Heat pumps are discreet and simple to install, making them an optimal home cooling choice.

Also, if you’re thinking about installing a ductless mini-split as your main HVAC system, you won’t need to worry about ductwork.

When to Add a Heat Pump to Your Existing Furnace

If you find that your home cannot keep a consistent temperature, it may be time to add a heat pump to your existing heating system. Furnaces are powerful, but they lack the consistency needed to retain comfortable heat production.

You can remove both indoor heat and keep it in regular flow with a heat pump, something a furnace cannot do alone. Enjoy year-round, customized heating and cooling by adding a heat pump to your existing furnace. 

Get Trusted Heat Pump or Furnace Installation by Dauenhauer

Dauenhauer delivers around-the-clock heat pump and furnace installation services in Kentucky. Home, business, or additional property owners looking to expand their home heating regime may find Dauenhauer a cost-effective, easy-to-find service. 

Whether you’re in Louisville or Lexington, we’re happy to make our way to your property and improve your home heating immediately. For HVAC services near you, call Dauenhauer.