A Heat Pump or a Furnace: Which One Should I Buy?

Heating your home is a primary concern when preparing for the winter. Two of the most popular solutions to combat frigid weather are a heat pump and a furnace. However, before you decide which heating system to choose, you should know how heat pumps and furnaces operate and their key differences.

What is A Heat Pump?

A heat pump uses electric power to move heat from a cold distance to a warm one. In winter, it draws the heat from outside and uses it to warm your home.

What Is A Furnace?

A furnace is a heating system that uses fuel, usually natural gas — to create warmth for your home. The essential elements of a furnace are a pilot light or an electronic ignition device; the furnace’s burner uses the fuel.

Also, the heat exchangers, which transfer heat, a blower fan that helps spread the heat throughout your home, and a flue that can be used as an exhaust system for gaseous byproducts are essential furnace parts.

Some Factors To Consider Before Purchasing A Furnace Or Heat Pump:

• Efficiency

Heat pump: The heat pumps use small amounts of electricity to transport heat from one area to another. It makes them extremely energy efficient, but when winters are cold, these systems work harder to produce enough warmth, requiring emergency heating repair Paso Robles.

Furnace: Furnaces utilize energy sources to generate their heat. It could be propane, natural gas or oil, or electricity. Natural gas can be the best alternative; however, it could be more efficient than the heat pump in normal conditions.

• Cost

Heat pump: Installing an entirely new heat pump ranges from $3,500 to $4,500. However, many important factors to consider are the presence of ductwork, the dimension and complexity of the system, and the kind of heat pump.

Furnace: Installing an air conditioner in a home is approximately $4,000 for electric furnaces and around $4,500 for a gas furnace.

• Maintenance

Heat pump: It is recommended that homeowners maintain them regularly, twice a year at best.

Furnace: A regular change of filters during heating repair is the minimum required to keep the furnace operating smoothly and efficiently. Cleaning the flame sensor using sandpaper before every heating season is an excellent suggestion.

If you are looking for a reliable HVAC contractor in Paso Robles, contact Air Rite for heating repair or heat pump installers near me.

• Appearance

Heat pump: The heat pumps are efficient and flexible and typically require a big separate unit placed outside the house. Additionally, mini-splits must be hung from large teams on the home’s walls.

Furnace: In contrast to heat pumps, furnaces are generally inconspicuous. They’re usually located in attics, basements, or utility rooms and are typically hidden and out of sight.

• Durability

Heat pump: Heating systems generally have a life span of 15 years. However, getting to this point requires regular maintenance.

Furnace: Furnaces tend to be less complex than heat pumps, so they are more durable. If appropriately maintained, a furnace will last up to 20 years before the homeowner will require replacement.

Conclusion

After looking at the specifics of both furnaces and heat pumps, you will likely wonder which is superior. While heat pumps and furnaces have advantages, choosing the right heating system depends on your specific situation.

A heat pump may be the best option in a moderate climate. In such a case, it is possible to transfer heat to your house, not create new heat and is more energy efficient than a furnace for those conditions. On the other hand, a furnace may be the best option if you live in an area that can be extremely cold in the winter months.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly furnace service near me, contact Air Rite at 805-461-3303. Our skilled and experienced HVAC specialists can resolve any HVAC issue and make your home comfortable again. Visit our website to learn more.

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– Debra M.

They can fix anything Great People !!!!!!!!!!! 🙂 I’ve been working with this company since 1996!!!!!!!

– Susie J.

As the caretaker for a senior gentleman in Atascadero, I was concerned for his health and safety during a recent cold snap. I called Air Rite, explained the situation and they made getting my patient’s needs taken care of a priority. The service technician was knowledgeable and professional, going above and beyond and taking the time to listen to my patient’s own diagnosis. The heating repair was completed within an hour and the price was right. I will recommend Air Rite Heating and Cooling to both my patients and my friends.

– L.

“Let me tell you why this company should have “10” stars. First, you need to know we had attempted to get our forced air heating fixed by another company from Templeton (posted a review on their site). After waiting several days for the other company to return after their initial visit (said they needed to order a part). After many cold days without even a call back we called “Air Rite” in Atascadero. We spoke with Rick (the owner of the company) and explained our dilemma and frustration with our attempt to get it fixed. He understood and said a ...

– Joe M.

“Great company to work with. I would say anyone looking for a fair, professional, and prompt company you could call Air Rite.”

– Joy J.

“We have used Air rite twice. Once to replace our heater and the most recent was to replace our A/C unit. We have been more than satisfied both times. They are fair, reasonably priced, efficient, and professional.”

– Ross T.

“Great service at a great price. When my parents needed an entirely new heater system Air Rite took care of it. When our heater recently went out Air Rite took care of it. Arnie came out diagnosed the problem and had us back up and running in no time. Great doing business with a small family-owned business. Highly recommend!”

– Fronando C.

“These guys are quick on service. They know what they are doing and put the customer first. There are a lot of air companies out there and service is the only thing that sets them apart and Air Rite knows this.”

– Nena J.

“I have used Air Rite for all my business needs over the past 8 years. They are honest, professional, and always come through. They are the best HVAC company on the central coast. Plus I love that they are family-owned! Try them out, they won’t disappoint.”

– Sara B.

“They are the best! I have you used them for everything. Honest and Fair.”

– Dennis E.

“Air Rite certainly did right by me! Our 20 year old HVAC system, which had been nursed along for the last few years, finally gave up the ghost. Arne came out and assessed the situation and recommended a reasonably priced replacement system. This morning he sent his team of Cameron, Daniel, David, and Keith, and they went to work. Before 3:00 p.m. on this wickedly hot day in the North County (105°+), they got our new furnace and air conditioning units installed, up, and running. Thank you, Air Rite!”

– Carrie W.

“We needed to have our AC unit serviced and called Air Rite. The woman who works in the office was attentive and kind. They were really busy because it has been so hot but she let us know the soonest they could send someone out. When the technician arrived he was kind and courteous. He went above and beyond to clean out the leaves that were in our unit and made it ready for summer. Thanks, Air Rite!”

A Heat Pump or a Furnace: Which One Should I Buy?