Electric Heat Pump or Gas Furnace: Which is Right for You?

Updated: October 23, 2024

Electric heat pumps transfer air from the outside of your house in order to heat the inside. Gas furnaces burn fuel to produce their own source of heat, which is then circulated to heat the house. Both are viable options for heating your home, but how do you know which will be right for you?

There are several factors to consider before deciding:

Climate

Heat pumps, because they are moving air from outside your home to the inside, can sometimes struggle when the temperature begins to drop below freezing. Because of this, heat pumps are not necessarily ideal for areas where winters are harsh. Gas furnaces, on the other hand, work great during harsh winters because they do not rely on outside temperatures to heat.

Cost

Initially, gas furnaces can be fairly inexpensive both to purchase and install. However, unless existing ductwork is present, it will also need to be installed and that will add further costs. The price of fuel for your furnace will vary depending on the type of fuel you decide to use (propane, natural gas, etc.). Electric heat pumps, on the other hand, have a higher initial cost but, since it runs on electricity, there is no need to replace fuel sources. However, depending on where you live, electricity costs may be equal or greater than the cost of gas.

Efficiency

Electric heat pumps are both more efficient and environmentally friendly than gas furnaces, creating even more energy than they use and not requiring fossil fuels to heat a home. While gas furnaces are powerful, their energy efficiency falls short when compared with other options.

Logistics

The logistics of your home can also be a deciding factor when it comes to choosing a heat source. For instance, electric heat pumps are great options for smaller homes that may not have room for a large furnace. Heat pumps are easy to install, with all components contained within an outdoor unit. Furnaces require inside space, both for the unit itself and the ductwork required to spread the heat around the home.

To learn more about options available to heat your home, continue browsing our site or feel free to contact us anytime to schedule heating & cooling services.