Heat Pump vs Furnace: What’s the Difference?

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is installed outside, just like an AC outdoor condenser unit. It works by using a small amount of energy to transfer heat from one location to another. The heat is pulled from the outside and brought inside to warm your home.

The really great thing about heat pumps is they can have more than one function. While the name “heat pump” may suggest they only warm up your home, they can also keep it cool. The heat pump does this by working in reverse. It can take the hot air out of your home and transfer it outside. This is one of the advantages of a heat pump. It can be your home’s one device for both heating and cooling.

What is a Furnace?

Unlike a heat pump, a furnace works hand in hand with your air conditioning system. It is located inside a home (usually in the basement) and produces warm air for your house. A furnace works by relying on gas burners. The flames from the burners heat up a series of metal tubes known as heat exchangers. The warm air created by these heat exchangers is blown throughout ductwork to heat your home.

Which One Is Better for My Home?

Both furnaces and heat pumps have their advantages.

A furnace’s main purpose is to heat your home, and they work really well in cold temperatures.

However, if you live in an area that has temperatures that rarely dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, a heat pump is the way to go. It has a dual purpose, so it won’t be sitting unused most of the year.