Heat pumps have become increasingly popular for home comfort in the Valley of the Sun, despite gas furnaces still being the most common source of heat for homeowners in the United States. If you’re thinking about replacing your current source of heating for your home, here’s what you need to know.
Heat Pumps
Some homeowners are reluctant to choose a heat pump because they’ve heard that they don’t effectively heat in all climates. It’s true that heat pumps aren’t ideal for temperatures that fall below freezing. However, this is rarely the situation in the Phoenix metro area. The cooling ability of a heat pump is the same as any air conditioner of the same size.
Because heat pumps offer both heating and cooling in just one unit, they typically cost far less to operate than gas furnaces. In fact, heat pumps can save a typical household up to 30 percent off their annual heating bills, according to one government study. They’re durable with a lifespan of at least 15 years or more for a unit that is well-maintained.
Gas Furnaces
Many homeowners are familiar with the tried-and-true gas furnace as their main source of heat. They’re essentially a forced-air system that works off a set temperature on your thermostat. When the air temperature inside your house falls below the set temperature, the pilot light on the gas furnace ignites the primary burner of the heat exchanger. The furnace heats the cool air and distributes it around the various rooms in your home. The heat emanating from a gas furnace is generally over 110 degrees. That means the inside of your house will heat up quickly.
Gas furnaces use propane or natural gas and are known for their reliability and efficiency. Gas furnaces though pose more health risks due to improper handling and maintenance. These include fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. More maintenance is necessary, and gas furnaces are typically more expensive and not as eco-friendly as heat pumps.
Which Is the Better Option?
The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act has boosted the incentive to install an electric heat pump. The new law provides homeowners tax incentives and rebates for installing climate change friendly heat pumps. Considering Arizona’s hot summers and mild winters, typically the better option would be a heat pump. Of course, the ultimate decision is with you.
Ready to learn more about heat pumps and gas furnaces? Call your local HVAC expert technicians at Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating today at 480-968-5652. Bruce’s is your Arizona resource for all your home heating and air conditioning needs.
