Heat Pump VS Furnace – Which One is Right For You?

As an Ocean City homeowner, you have a number of important choices to make. One of those happens to be about which type of heating system they want for their home.

For this reason, it is important to be informed about some of the choices that you have. This will help you make your decision, as an informed homeowner and a wise consumer.

Pros and Cons of Each

If you are stuck deciding between a furnace or a heat pump, here are a few things you should know about each:

Furnaces

• Although not as energy-efficient as a heat pump, it is still considered more cost-effective to operate. By opting for a furnace, you can be certain your monthly operational expenses will be lower. That's because the electricity used to operate a heat pump ends up costing more than the propane or natural gas used to fuel this system.
• These are better suited for climates where winter weather often drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat pumps, by design, work best with milder temperatures. So, if you want a more effective system to handle the roughest that winter has to dish out, a furnace is a better option. Winters that tend to regularly drop below freezing are best suited for furnace heat.
• The furnace is usually a less expensive upfront investment, as well. Anyone on a strict budget or who has been faced with an unexpected emergency need for replacement may want to consider a furnace. Plus, with a longer expected lifespan, this makes for a wise financial investment.

Heat Pumps

• Considered a more energy-efficient system, you can feel good knowing they are the more Eco-friendly because of their efficiency. A heat pump transfers heat from one area to another, unlike a furnace which additionally has to create this heat in the first place.
• Many consumers feel the quality of heat is better. This system produces a warmth that is more comfortable and makes each room feel evenly warmed, creating a better overall temperature-controlled household.
• Of course, any time that you can avoid using a fueling source that could pose the potential threat of combustion, it can make for a safer home. Although safety measures are always in place to keep your heating system user-friendly, there is always more of a risk for a furnace vs a heat pump.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Fields Heating Cooling & Appliance Inc. is ready to help you make the right choice, as well as provide you with expert installation and maintenance for your system.