(937) 269-5059When it comes to heating your home, there are several options, but two of the most popular are heat pumps and furnaces. Deciding which one is best for your household depends on several factors, including your climate, budget, and energy efficiency preferences. In this two-part series, your friends at Allied Services, Inc. will help you compare these two systems so you can make an informed decision.
How Do They Work?
A furnace generates heat by burning fuel (natural gas, propane, or oil) or using electricity to heat the air, which is distributed throughout the home through air ducts. It’s a simple and effective method, especially in colder climates like Ohio, as furnaces can generate substantial heat even during freezing temperatures.
A heat pump, on the other hand, doesn’t generate heat directly. Instead, it transfers heat from the outside air into your home. During colder months, it absorbs warmth from the outside and releases it indoors. In the summer, the process is reversed to cool the home. Heat pumps are most efficient in moderate climates but may struggle to provide adequate heating in extremely cold conditions.
Energy Efficiency
One of the key differences between a heat pump and a furnace is energy efficiency. Heat pumps are known for their high efficiency because they move heat rather than generate it, using much less energy than a furnace. In fact, for every unit of electricity consumed, a heat pump can produce two to three times the amount of heat, making it an excellent choice for reducing energy bills in mild climates.
Furnaces, while powerful, can be less efficient. Gas furnaces, for instance, typically have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of around 80% to 98%, depending on the model. Although modern furnaces have become more efficient, they still consume more energy overall compared to heat pumps.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore each system’s costs, climate considerations, and longevity to help you decide whether a furnace or heat pump is the best fit for your home. At Allied Services, Inc., we can help you choose the right way to heat your home and ensure it’s installed correctly. Contact us today at (937) 269-5059 to learn more about upgrading your HVAC system for the coming fall and winter in the Dayton, OH, area.