While it’s getting warmer, it’s never too soon to think about upgrading your heating. It’s better to get your new heating system when you don’t need it. That way, you know you have working heat before the cold makes your home uncomfortable. But what heating system should you choose? There are lots of models on the market, and you want an option that’s more than just “good enough.”
A heating system affects your home’s comfort, energy efficiency and maintenance costs. Heat pumps and furnaces are two of the most common heating options for homes. Let’s break down their differences to make choosing between a furnace and heat pump easier for your Florida home.
A heat pump is a heating and cooling system that moves heat instead of generating it. When it’s cold, the pump pulls warmth from the air outside to heat your home. In the summer, it removes heat from your home. Heat pumps are a great option for homes in Florida and the Southeast, where freezing temperatures are less common. Heat pumps run on electricity, making them an energy-efficient heating system.
Heat pumps are a great solution for homeowners who want a year-round system. They heat and cool, making them extremely convenient and cost-effective in the long run. Some heat pumps can even reduce your heating electricity use by 75% compared to furnaces. If you’re looking for a more efficient, eco-friendly heating solution, consider heat pumps.
Heat pumps are more expensive to install upfront than furnaces. Their dual-use and installation process makes them a bigger investment for homeowners, and there may be additional costs if you need electrical or insulation changes. They are most effective in places that stay consistently above freezing. Florida typically only hits the 40s during the winter, making heat pumps a solid heating option.
Furnaces are a traditional choice for home heating. They use electricity or natural gas to generate heat and push it through your ducts. Furnaces heat air in a central unit. Once it’s warm, the fan and blower send warm air throughout the house. Furnaces have fast, strong heating capabilities, but they are less efficient than heat pumps.
Furnaces are great if you want a strong heat output. They can heat homes quickly, even in freezing temperatures. They’re also less expensive to install than heat pumps. Homes with convenient access to natural gas will have an easy time getting a furnace.
While furnaces excel at heating, they don’t do any cooling. You’ll have to get a separate air conditioning system for your home. They also need a consistent gas supply, which can add to your energy costs. Furnaces are also better suited for colder climates than Florida. The Sunshine State sees milder temperatures, so investing in a furnace may mean paying for heating capabilities you’ll never need.
Cost and efficiency are two of the most important considerations for homeowners. While heat pumps and furnaces can both heat your home, which one will make your life easier? Understanding your investment’s short-term and long-term implications will help you make the best decision for your home. Here’s a heat pump and furnace comparison to help you out.
Furnaces have a lower installation cost. If you already have the necessary gas connection, the installation will be even more affordable. Heat pumps have a unique heating and cooling design that may require new ductwork or thermostats. If you’re basing your decision on installation expense, furnaces are the winner.
Both furnaces and heat pumps need regular maintenance to prevent issues. Heat pumps need more frequent checks since they run year-round. With constant runtime, there’s always wear and tear to fix. Furnaces are mostly used in the winter, so you have fewer maintenance expenses. Typically, heat pumps need replacing after 10 years — 15 for furnaces.
Living in a warmer climate like Florida means heat pumps have better energy savings. They move heat, which generates less electricity. Homes with heat pumps can expect lower energy costs during the winter. If you’re in a colder climate with lower fuel prices, furnaces can offer lower monthly costs. Since heat pumps don’t need natural gas, you’ll see lower operating expenses in the Southeast compared to furnaces.
Heat pumps are the clear winner for energy efficiency in Florida. Choose an ENERGY STAR heat pump and enjoy a tax credit, too. Investing in ENERGY STAR-certified appliances reduces your home’s energy use so that you can maximize your savings. Furnaces have to generate heat from scratch, which makes them much less energy-efficient in milder climates.
Pick your heating system based on where you live. Heat pumps can struggle up north where there are freezing temperatures regularly. It’s much harder to pull warmth from the air below zero. However, they work perfectly in milder climates like Florida. Homeowners can enjoy efficient heating and cooling year-round. If you live somewhere colder, a furnace might be more effective.
Heat pumps work best in well-insulated homes. Choose them for smaller or midsized homes to ensure they work properly. You might need a zoned heat pump system or an alternative setup if your home is larger. Furnaces are great for fast, powerful heat. Large or multistory homes in colder areas are best for furnaces.
Do you need cooling for most of the year? Homeowners who see mild winters and long hot periods should consider heat pumps. They can heat and cool, giving you an all-in-one solution. Furnaces only heat, so you’ll have to pay for an additional cooling system. You might want to avoid a furnace if you need minimal heat during the year.
Choosing a heating system for your home can be challenging. Lean on the experts to find the best option for your Florida home. Whether you’re ready to install a high-efficiency heat pump or you need heating system repairs, Strada Air Conditioning & Heating can help out. We’ve been serving Florida homeowners since 2003 with trusted, professional service. Our team works hard to deliver quality, reliable solutions for your home. We offer comprehensive heat pump services and 24/7 emergency phone support.
Schedule your heating service online and see why You Oughta Call Strada!
Joe Strada, owner of Strada Electric, Security & Air Conditioning, started working at the young age of 14. He’s never attended college, but he has spent his life dedicating his time and energy to his trade and providing high-quality services to his customers. At 19, Joe started working at a well-known air conditioning company and developing his commitment to excellence. He has state certifications in electric, plumbing, air conditioning, residential building and general contracting. During his years of training and experience, Joe noticed a sincere need for a dependable electrical contractor in Florida who embodied the same dedication to customer service in which he believed. In 2003, Joe co-founded Strada Electric, Security & Air Conditioning. Since then, the company has been in the business of providing peace of mind to customers. We offer expert electric, security and air conditioning solutions for homes and businesses, leveraging our experience to deliver professional and responsive service with reliability and respect.
