Pros And Cons Of A Heat Pump vs A Gas Furnace

When the time comes to replace the heating system in your Claremont, NC home, there are many options to choose from, but the most popular is either a heat pump system or a gas furnace. Each option will effectively heat your home, they do have their pros and cons. Below is a breakdown of the pros and cons of both types of systems to help you make an informed decision.

Heat Pump Pros And Cons

A heat pump system operates on electricity and is ideal for heating and cooling homes in moderate climates. There are three types of heat pump systems: air, ground, or water. In general, the pros and cons are:

Efficiency

Compared to a gas operated furnace, a heat pump uses significantly less energy and you should see the savings on your bill each month.

Cost Of Installation

Installing a heat pump system generally costs less than the installing a furnace. A furnace requires an extensive ventilation system, which will increase the cost if your home does not already have this system.

Cost Of Operation

Electricity rates are generally lower than natural gas rates, so a heat pump will cost less to operate in most areas.

Noise

A hot air heat pump is quieter than a furnace.

Safety

With a heat pump there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Size

A heat pump system has two parts, an indoor and outdoor component. A gas furnace has only one, an indoor component.

Effectiveness

If the temperature drops too low, a heat pump may not be as effective at heating a home. A heat pump works best when the temperature is above freezing and the difference between the temperature outside and the temperature the thermostat is set at is 10-15 degrees.

Gas Furnace Pros And Cons

Gas fired furnaces are a time-tested method for heating houses. However, they also have pros and cons as listed below:

Lifespan

A gas furnace will generally last longer than a heat pump.

Less Maintenance

In general, a gas operated furnace is used for a few months out of each year, so it requires less maintenance than a heat pump that is used year round.

Dependability

With fewer mechanical parts, a gas furnace has fewer things that can break down or malfunction.

Safety

If there is a gas leak it could cause an explosion and fire.

Cleanliness

Since a gas furnace produces heat with combustion, it can create poor indoor air quality in the home.

Bottom line? Decide if a heat pump or gas furnace is for you to reduce your Claremont, NC heat bill, save on preventative maintenance, and reduce your carbon footprint by saving more energy.