A heat pump is a device that transfers heat but doesn’t generate it. Rather than burning fuel, a heat pump extracts warmth from the outside air, even when it’s cold. The unit then brings the warm air into your home. It takes electricity and refrigerant to move that heat from one place to another. In summer, the heat pump reverses the procedure and cools your home by removing heat from inside and sending it outside. That makes it a dual-functioning system.
What Is a Furnace?
A furnace generates heat by turning an energy source, such as natural gas, oil, or electricity, into heat. That warmth is then distributed through your home with a blower and a series of ducts. Furnaces are powerful and durable, and they will heat a house quickly.
They have been around for decades and are a staple in regions with winter temperatures that fall below freezing. Furnaces only provide heat, though. If you want air conditioning, you must install a separate system.
How They Feel Different
Furnaces heat the air to a greater degree than heat pumps do. At first, the heat pump might seem as if it’s not working because the air it blows may feel cool; however, this is not the case, as heat pumps warm the room gradually.
Furnaces provide instant and more powerful blasts of heat. Heat pumps, meanwhile, provide a more uniform and gentler heat.
Which One Costs More to Run?
It may depend on where you are and what you pay for energy. In regions with relatively inexpensive electricity and mild winters, a heat pump can be a cost-saving alternative since it doesn’t require fuel. It just moves heat around. In colder regions that experience longer winters, a furnace might be a better option, as it can keep up with lower temperatures.
Heat pumps do work at cooler temperatures, but they must work harder, which might increase your utility bill. Some homeowners have both; they use a heat pump most of the year and a backup furnace on the coldest days.
What Should You Choose?
This choice isn’t a one-size-fits-all. If you live in a moderate winter climate and you want to heat and cool a small space, a heat pump could be a good choice for you. If you consistently experience freezing weather, a furnace may be more dependable and efficient.
Talk to local HVAC professionals before making a decision. They can help you determine what will work for your house, your climate, and your pocketbook. No matter which route you choose, however, maintaining your system is the key to warmth when you most need it. To consult with an HVAC technician about which solution will be best for your Arlington Heights, IL home, contact Paragon Mechanical for heat pump services.
