Upgrading your HVAC system is a big decision, and choosing between a furnace and a heat pump can be challenging. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump works like an air conditioner with a reverse switch. It heats your home in the winter by extracting heat from the outside air and cools it in the summer by removing heat from your home. It also filters and dehumidifies the air—all in one unit.
Types of Heat Pumps
- Ducted Air Source Heat Pump: Transfers heat from outside air to your home’s ductwork. It’s energy-efficient and reduces electricity usage by up to 75% compared to electric resistance systems. Technological advancements make these viable even in colder climates.
- Ductless Air Source Heat Pump: Ideal for homes without ductwork, especially older ones. These systems can also support radiant floor heating and radiators.
- Ground Source (Geothermal) Heat Pump: Transfers heat between your home and the ground. These highly efficient systems save energy and have a long lifespan—24 years for surface units and up to 50 years for underground components. They can reduce energy usage by up to 61%.
Furnaces
Furnaces are well-suited for areas with long periods of extreme cold but have some drawbacks compared to heat pumps.
Advantages:
- Lower initial installation cost.
- Familiar technology.
- Provides warm, dry air quickly.
- Runs on various energy sources (natural gas, electricity, propane, oil).
Disadvantages:
- Requires ductwork, which adds costs and maintenance needs.
- Can be noisy and produce a burning smell when first turned on.
- Operates on an on/off cycle, leading to less consistent comfort.
- Requires separate systems for cooling.
- May require more frequent maintenance and doesn’t last as long as a heat pump.
- Can contribute to indoor air impurities, affecting those with allergies or respiratory issues.
Tax Incentives and Rebates for Heat Pumps
Federal tax credits and rebates are available to help offset the cost of upgrading to a heat pump system. Reach out to Royal Aire, and we’ll help you explore additional incentives to lower your costs.
Choosing between a heat pump and a furnace depends on your home’s needs and climate. Heat pumps provide year-round comfort by efficiently heating and cooling your space, while furnaces are ideal for colder areas but can be less energy-efficient. With available federal tax credits and rebates, upgrading to a heat pump could be a cost-effective choice. Contact Royal Aire to learn more about how we can help you take advantage of these incentives and find the right system for your home.