Yet, when it comes time to make a big change in an HVAC system, some homeowners have switched from a furnace to a heat pump. A heat pump is an electrically powered system that operates on the same principle as a split system air conditioner, and uses the same set of ducts to distribute air. The difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner is a heat pump can work as both a heating and cooling system by switching the direction of operation.

If you’re considering replacing your furnace this year, a heat pump might be on your list of possibilities. But is it the right choice?

The Case in Favor of a Heat Pump

If your home doesn’t use natural gas power and your current furnace is an electrical model, then making the change to a heat pump is a fantastic idea. Heat pumps are also electrically powered, but in heating mode they consume far less energy than a furnace. This is because a heat pump uses electricity to move heat from one place to another, rather than create heat by running a current through heating elements. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a home can save $300 or more annually with a heat pump compared to an electric furnace.

Choosing a heat pump for a replacement is even better if you have an aging air conditioner that’s ready to retire as well. You’ll have your heating and cooling needs taken care of in a single installation. Heat pumps do cost more than either a furnace or standard AC alone, but when a heat pump replaces both, it’s a much more cost-friendly solution.

When you have concerns about using a gas-powered heater because of safety reasons, then a heat pump is also a great choice.

The Case Against a Heat Pump

A gas-powered furnace is much more capable of handling low winter temperatures than a heat pump, which can struggle with efficiency when temperatures drop too low. So if you already have a gas furnace and you aren’t also considering putting in a new AC as well, it’s probably best to stick with a new natural gas furnace rather than chancing to a heat pump. Gas furnaces are still among the most energy-efficienct units available, and with newer technology you can have a high-efficiency unit installed as a replacement that will lower your bills even further.