If you are needing to replace your HVAC system, you may need to ask the question, “Do I need a heat pump system or a furnace for heating purposes?”
When it comes to a furnace, you could have one that runs on natural gas, electricity, or oil. Typically, where we live in South Alabama most furnaces are run by natural gas. So, for argument sake, we will compare the benefits of a heat pump system with a furnace fueled with natural gas.
When you compare the 2 systems there are several factors you need to consider.
- How Much Space They Take Up
- Energy Efficiency
- How They Work
- How I would Maintain It
- Unit Cost
Space
Your furnace would take up around 30 inches of clearance on all sides. The furnace is installed inside your home. On the other hand, the heat pump is installed outside your home and needs 6 inches less clearance. A heat pump system may have an indoor unit as well.
Energy Efficiency
In a warmer climate like we live in here in South Alabama, the heat pump system uses less energy source than a furnace. This would be a cost saving to you.
How They Work
Furnaces burn gas to heat your home, whereas the heat pump system runs on electricity. It draws the heat from outside. The concern would be, what if we have an unusually cold winter this year. The heat pump will not heat up your home as quickly and possibly as effectively as the furnace.
How To Maintain Each System
Both systems should have maintenance performed on them annually by a licensed HVAC technician. You will have air filters for both types of systems, and you should check your filters monthly whether it be in the winter or summer months.
Unit Cost
The upfront cost of a furnace is typically less than the heat pump system but has a higher price tag on installation. Since heat pump systems are normally more effective in warmer climates, you may possibly have a lower operating cost over the life of the system.
We at Action Heating and Air Conditioning hopes this information was helpful to you when deciding on a new HVAC system for your home.
We at Action Heating and Air Conditioning have been serving the Mobile, Semmes, Theodore, Daphne, Fairhope, Silverhill, Foley, Robertsdale, Loxley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and surrounding areas in South Alabama since 1997. We are in our second generation of ownership with trained technicians that are always friendly and courteous. Please call us at 251 272-5900 if we can help you with any HVAC system needs. When needing a new HVAC system, we offer excellent finance options. Also, you can check out our website at https://www.callaction.net to learn about us and all the services we offer as well as some informative blogs that you may find interesting.
