Homeowners have a major HVAC choice to make when installing a system in a new construction home or upgrading a system in an existing one. While several heating options are available, heat pumps and furnaces are usually the top considerations. Efficiency is an important factor when deciding between the two, as it allows homeowners to run their system without wasting energy.
When it comes to determining a heat pump’s efficiency, you typically want to look at the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) number, specifically the newer standard SEER2. It states the efficiency over a specific cooling period. The higher the rating, the better, as it means it operates more efficiently. To get the rating, you divide the cooling output by the energy input.
Heat pumps also have a heating seasonal performance factor 2 (HSPF2) rating, which is how efficient they are during a specific heating season. HSPF2 is calculated in a similar way to SEER2. You divide the total heat output in British thermal units (BTUs) from a specific heating period by the electricity input (watt-hours).
Regular furnaces don’t get an HSPF2 rating but rather an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. The AFUE rating, represented as a percentage, indicates a furnace’s efficiency over a year. A higher rating is better. To calculate it, divide the annual heat output by the total annual energy input, both of which are in BTUs. You take that number and multiply it by 100 to get the percentage.
Heat pumps operate year-round, providing both heating and cooling. During the summer, they transfer heat from the inside of your home to the outdoors. In winter, they take heat from the outdoor environment and transfer it into your home. Heat pumps are ducted or ductless systems that have an indoor unit and an outdoor condenser that are connected by a line set. This is the basic setup, although systems can become more complex with additional indoor units and condensers. One of the appeals of this system is that residents can control each indoor unit individually. For example, the living room can be set to one temperature while the unit in the bedroom can be a completely different one.
Furnaces are typically either electric or gas, although some run on propane. The warmed air moves from the unit through your ductwork to heat your entire home. There aren’t any combustion gases with electric furnaces. With gas or propane furnaces, the combustion gases are vented outside to prevent carbon monoxide from building up in your home.
Regarding energy efficiency, heat pumps typically come out on top compared to furnaces. The primary reason is that heat pumps transfer heat but don’t generate it. This could result in significant long-term savings on your utility bills.
Furnaces usually cost less to install than heat pumps, especially if you’re installing multiple heat pump units. However, many homeowners can take advantage of incentives and rebates to help offset the installation costs.
Furnaces often come with higher long-term operating costs. Heat pumps are often the opposite. They usually involve a higher installation cost but result in lower utility bills.
Heat pumps have an estimated lifespan of about 10 to 15 years, while furnaces usually last between 15 and 20 years. However, there are several factors that can influence longevity, such as the quality of the installation. Other factors include the maintenance frequency, usage habits, and the local climate. With proper care, each system could possibly surpass its respective estimated lifespans.
Heat pumps are often considered to be safer than gas or propane furnaces because there’s no combustion involved, which means no carbon monoxide risks. The lack of fuel also means there’s a reduced risk of a fire or explosion. However, electric furnaces run on electricity and not fuel, so they also come with no potential carbon monoxide dangers. Since both electric furnaces and heat pumps run on electricity, they both pose a risk of electrical hazards, such as fires.
There are steps you can take to decrease safety risks. It starts with leaving the installation process to our experts instead of going the DIY route. You should also make sure to do regular self-inspections to pay attention to signs of trouble and not delay repairs or maintenance. Taking care of your HVAC system not only enhances safety but also improves efficiency.
When you’re faced with choosing between a furnace and a heat pump, Koch & White Heating and Cooling can help. We have extensive knowledge of both types, ensuring that we can provide you with all the information you need to make an educated decision. We’ll discuss the pros and cons, costs, your needs, the installation process, and your budget, as well as answer any of your questions.
Learn more today about whether a heat pump or furnace is best for your home. Koch & White Heating and Cooling in Ann Arbor, MI, provides all heat pump and furnace services. Contact us today to book an appointment.
