Heat Pump vs Furnace Comparison
Compare operating costs between heat pumps and traditional gas, propane, or oil furnaces for your climate and energy rates.
Heat Pump Details
Including installation
8-12 typical, higher is better
Furnace Details
80-98% typical
Home Size
Based on typical heating loads for each home size in a moderate climate
Important Considerations
- • Heat pump efficiency decreases in extreme cold (below 25°F)
- • Heat pumps provide both heating AND cooling
- • Federal tax credits may be available for heat pumps
- • Local utility rebates can reduce equipment costs
Heat Pump Efficiency
Heat pumps move heat rather than generate it, achieving 200-400% efficiency. They provide both heating and cooling from one system.
- • HSPF 8-10: Standard efficiency
- • HSPF 10+: High efficiency
- • Cold climate models work to -15°F
- • $2,000 federal tax credit available
How to Use
- Enter your local electricity and fuel rates
- Select your climate zone and heating needs
- Click Calculate to compare 15-year costs
FAQ
Do heat pumps work in cold climates?
Modern cold-climate heat pumps work efficiently down to -15°F or lower. They may need backup heat for extreme cold, but perform well in most US climates. Look for units with HSPF ratings above 10.
What is HSPF?
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor measures heating efficiency. It's the total BTUs of heat delivered divided by electricity used (in watt-hours) over a season. Higher is better—minimum is 8.2, with high-efficiency units at 10+.
When does a heat pump make financial sense?
A heat pump is a good investment if it pays for itself within the typical 15-year equipment lifespan. This usually happens when electricity is cheap relative to gas, propane, or oil. If payback exceeds 15 years, consider a heat pump only if you value lower carbon emissions or expect energy prices to shift in its favor.