Heat Pump vs. Furnace vs. AC: Complete Comparison Guide
Side-by-side comparison: upfront costs, operating expenses, climate suitability, maintenance, and decision framework for HVAC system selection.
Key Takeaways
- Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in one system
- Operating costs depend heavily on local fuel prices and climate
- Heat pumps excel when replacing electric, oil, or propane heating
- Gas furnace + AC may still win in very cold, cheap gas areas
- Use our calculator for personalized cost comparison
System Comparison
Heat Pump: Best Overall for Most Homes
Pros:
- 2-4x more efficient than resistance heating
- Single system for heating and cooling
- No combustion, lower maintenance
- Excellent with solar panels
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than basic systems
- May need backup in extreme cold
- Performance depends on installation quality
Best for: Most climates, replacing electric/oil/propane heat, new construction, electrification goals
Gas Furnace + AC: Still Competitive in Some Areas
Pros:
- Familiar technology, wide installer base
- Excellent cold-weather performance
- Lower operating costs with cheap gas
- Separate heating/cooling systems
Cons:
- Two systems to maintain
- Combustion safety concerns
- Gas price volatility
- Higher carbon footprint
Best for: Very cold climates with cheap gas ($0.80-$1.20/therm), existing gas infrastructure
Electric Furnace + AC: Avoid If Possible
Pros:
- Lowest upfront cost
- Simple installation
- No combustion
Cons:
- Extremely high operating costs
- 100% efficiency vs 250-400% for heat pumps
- High electric demand
Best for: Almost never—heat pumps are always better than electric resistance
Decision Framework
- Current system: What are you replacing and why?
- Fuel costs: Get current electricity and gas rates
- Climate: Check your design temperature
- Home factors: Insulation, ductwork, electrical capacity
- Run the numbers: Use our calculator for personalized comparison
- Consider rebates: Factor in available incentives
Frequently Asked Questions
Are heat pumps worth it if I have cheap natural gas?
It depends on your exact rates and climate. With gas under $1.00/therm and expensive electricity, gas may win. Use our calculator to compare your specific scenario.
Can a heat pump replace both my furnace and AC?
Yes—heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in one system. This simplifies maintenance and often reduces total system cost compared to separate units.
What if my current system still works fine?
If your system is under 10 years old and efficient, waiting until replacement time may make sense. However, factor in operating cost savings and available rebates in your decision.