In our last post, we outlined some basic advantages and disadvantages of furnaces and heat pumps. Even if your home is already equipped with a heating system, should you consider switching? In this post, we’ll get more in-depth in determining which of these two options is right for you.
CONSIDER THE CLIMATE
We mentioned before that furnaces can be better at heating your home in extremely cold weather, but heat pumps are more efficient in moderately cold temperatures. If you live in the Odessa and Midland area, you know the temperature can drop to the single digits. This February’s cold snap lasted more than a week! However, that was extremely rare, and even when it does get that cold around here, it doesn’t last long.
Heat pumps are generally fine for our West Texas climate. They may use a little more energy to keep it comfortable when the temperature drops below freezing, but the cold is normally so short-lived that you won’t even notice. However, if you lived in an area where temperatures routinely stay below freezing for weeks at a time during the winter, a furnace would be the way to go.
CONSIDER THE COMBO
One possible alternative is a furnace/heat pump combo system. These systems work with both gas and electricity. The heat pump runs efficiently on electricity, then when it gets too cold, the gas kicks on and fires up the furnace. That option, though rare, works well for some households.
READY TO REPLACE?
If you have an older home, it’s possible that you have a furnace, but maybe consider a heat pump. Heat pumps are normally more expensive upfront but remember they can both heat and cool your home, meaning you won’t need a separate furnace and air conditioner. Because heat pumps are newer, they are almost always more energy-efficient and will save you long-term on your energy bills.
However, if money’s no object and comfort is king, it may be wiser to stick with the furnace. Not only will it keep you toasty on the coldest days, but it will also heat your home faster.
WORTH THE CALL
Regardless of what you have now, or the type of system you’re interested in getting, The Bosworth Company can help. We can evaluate your needs and budget to determine what’s right for you, whether it’s a heat pump, furnace, or even a mini-split! Make an appointment online, or call us today at 432-570-5233. It’s Worth the Call. Always.