Heat Pump vs Gas Furnace: Which is Best For you?

As a home or business owner, it can be intimidating when purchasing large-ticket items such as a new heating system. Expensive items make it much more imperative to ensure you get the correct item that is most beneficial for your home. 

Here we will explore the difference between a heat pump vs gas furnace so you can make the best-informed decision for your household. You can trust Comfort Specialists, Roxbury Township's heat pump repair, installation, and maintenance experts. We are here to help you decide which unit suits you and will be the most cost-effective and efficient for your home.



Gas Furnace Considerations

A gas furnace is typically best for larger homes in cold climates.

Types of Gas Furnaces

Your home can only have one standard gas furnace. However, you can install a gas furnace with a heat pump known as a dual fuel system. When having both systems, the system itself can gauge the outside temperature and use the system that would be the most efficient option for heating your home. A dual-fuel system is the most efficient and optimal heating method. 

How a Gas Furnace Works

A furnace generates heat by burning oil or gas. A furnace only produces heat, so your home will require a separate AC unit for air conditioning and warmth. 

However, a furnace is built to withstand extreme and harsh cold temperatures. Many homes in the northern states utilize a gas furnace to endure harsh winters that the southern states do not experience. 

Space

A furnace typically requires 30 inches of clearance on all sides of the unit. A standard furnace usually needs more space than a heat pump, but if you have enough space, you could choose either.

Maintenance

To maintain your gas furnace, you only need to clean, inspect, and repair one inside unit. However, if you want air conditioning, that would require installing a separate AC unit that requires its own cleaning and maintenance schedule. 

Cost and Installation

Natural gas is typically cheaper than electricity, which is what heat pumps run on. However, installing a gas furnace can be time-consuming and costly. Overall, you must weigh the pros and cons of each unit because even though a gas furnace might be more expensive initially, it could be a money saver in the long run if you live in a cold climate and have a large home.

Heat Pump Considerations

A heat pump system is typically best for smaller homes in warmer climates. 

Types of Heat Pumps

The three types of heat pumps include; air-to-air, ductless mini-split, and geothermal. All of these types are more efficient than standard heaters since they move existing heat around rather than generate new heat.

How a Heat Pump Works

A heat pump runs on electricity, draws in air from outside across the air handler, and uses existing heat, either from the air or the ground, to warm the air. Heat pumps can both heat and cool a space. A heat pump produces less heat than a gas furnace, making it ideal for warmer climates.

Space

A heat pump typically only requires 24 inches of clearance, making that unit smaller than the gas furnace. If space is limited, your only choice is to install a heat pump regardless of how effective it is in the home. 

Maintenance

A heat pump typically includes an inside and outside unit that will require regular maintenance. 

Cost and Installation

Heat pumps are extremely energy efficient. The installation process requires two units, one inside and one outside but may be cheaper upfront than a furnace installation.

Contact Us Today for Heating Services

With the above information, you should better understand the difference between a heat pump vs gas furnace to make an educated decision for your household. 

Overall, the advantages of a heat pump win for energy efficiency over a gas furnace. However, where you live will truly determine which unit will be the best and most energy efficient for you. 

With temperatures changing throughout the country, the winters are becoming increasingly frigid. By scheduling regular maintenance, you want to ensure you are prepared for a New Jersey winter and reduce any unexpected heating issues. 

Whether you choose a heat pump or a gas furnace, you can trust Comfort Specialists to help you decide where a heat pump vs gas furnace is most suitable for your home. 

Comfort Specialists are your local experts for heating and cooling in Roxbury Township. Call us at (973) 490-4881 for quality and fast service you can trust!