How they differ
A gas furnace produces strong, steady heat whatever the weather outside, and is paired with a separate air conditioner for cooling. A heat pump does both jobs with one outdoor unit, running in one direction for cooling and the other for heating.
Because a heat pump moves heat rather than making it, it can deliver more heat than the electricity it uses. As the outdoor temperature drops, there is less heat to gather, and how well it keeps up depends on the model and the climate.
A heat pump tends to fit when
- Winters are mild to moderate, or the model is designed for colder climates
- The house has no natural gas service, or the goal is to move away from burning fuel
- The air conditioner needs replacing at the same time as the heating
- Local electricity rates make efficient electric heat competitive with gas
A furnace tends to fit when
- Winters are long and cold, and natural gas is available
- The existing furnace is in good shape and only the air conditioner needs attention
- The priority is the strongest, warmest air from the vents on the coldest days
Using both
A dual-fuel system pairs a heat pump with a gas furnace. The heat pump handles cooling and milder heating days, and the furnace takes over when it gets cold enough that burning gas makes more sense. It suits climates with cold winters where gas is available.