There are a few different ways to heat your home, and each has its own pros and cons. You might not know which one to choose if you’re a new homeowner. Read this guide to learn about the two common and efficient heating systems before hiring a professional HVAC contractor to install either one.
What is a Furnace?
A furnace is a device that transfers heat from one location to another through thermal radiation. It is powered by gas or electricity. It is usually installed in the basement or attic of your home and works in conjunction with the ductwork to distribute warm air throughout the house.
What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a system that takes in cold air from outside, heats it using a refrigerant system, and then distributes the warm air throughout the home. It can be powered by electricity or natural gas. Heat pumps are efficient and cost-effective because they use less energy than traditional heating systems.
Heat Pumps vs Furnace
Cost
The cost of furnaces and heat pumps will depend on the size of your home and which technology you choose. However, generally speaking, furnaces will be more expensive than heat pumps. This is because furnaces are more efficient and cost less to operate than heat pumps which can increase your energy bill by 10-30%.
Maintenance
A heat pump or furnace requires occasional maintenance to keep it running efficiently and prevent breakdowns. Furnace repair and maintenance requirements are lower than that of a heat pump because furnaces rely on fewer moving parts. As a result, furnaces require less frequent service than heat pumps do. Be sure to contact an HVAC expert to help maintain or repair your new heating system. This will affect its efficiency and longevity.
Overall Performance
The heating capacity and efficiency for both heating and cooling systems depend on the temperature of the outdoor air as well as the temperature and design of the ductwork in your home. But remember that although furnaces have higher heating capacities and efficiencies than heat pumps, they are generally less efficient in colder climates. While a heat pump may be slightly less efficient than a furnace during extreme cold snaps, it can still provide adequate heat for your home’s comfort regardless of the outside temperature.
Life Span
All furnaces will eventually need to be replaced. On average, a conventional furnace will last about 15 to 20 years if maintained properly. On the other hand, a heat pump has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
Now that you know the difference between heat pumps and furnaces, you can choose the right one for your home based on your needs and budget. You can trust our HVAC contractors at Infinity Air LLC to advise you on the best heating and cooling solutions for your home and provide the best services in Las Vegas.
We provide heater repair services, air conditioner maintenance services, and much more!
Contact us today for more information!