Choosing between a heat pump and a conventional HVAC system can be challenging when it comes to heating and cooling your home. The best choice for your situation will depend on a number of factors, including energy costs and your personal needs, but all systems have advantages.

Understanding Traditional HVAC Systems

Separate heating and cooling units comprise the bulk of the traditional HVAC systems in the United States. A furnace is the typical heating component; it burns fuels like natural gas, oil, or propane and delivers heat throughout your residence through ducts. Central air conditioners use the same forced air system to distribute cool air through a homeowner’s living spaces. These traditional heating and coolings systems have been around for a while and have proven very effective, particularly in areas where the weather varies greatly from summer to winter, like Wisconsin.

Exploring the Basics of Heat Pumps

The other side of the coin is heat pumps, which are multi-function systems. They are effective because they can move heat from one area to another. Similar to an air conditioner, they draw heat from the air inside and release it outside when in cooling mode. When set to heating mode, they do the opposite: drawing heat from the air outside and transferring it indoors.

Heating and Cooling Efficiency

When in cooling mode, an air-source heat pump is comparable to the most energy-efficient air conditioners you can buy. Additionally, heat pumps are more efficient than furnaces when the outdoor temperature is above freezing since they transfer heat from one place to another rather than creating it.

However, once the weather drops below 32 degrees, heat pumps become expensive to run because extracting heat from the outside air becomes more challenging at colder temperatures. As the temperature drops below 25 degrees, a heat pump may have to use its auxiliary heating element to keep your home comfortable. This element uses electric resistance heating, similar to electric baseboards, which can drive up your electricity costs.

Advancements in heat pump technology have led to models designed for cold climates. These models can operate efficiently at lower temperatures, sometimes down to -15 degrees or even lower. Unfortunately, they tend to be prohibitively expensive. In addition, some homeowners feel that they have not been on the market long enough to prove they are a reliable heating source in the long term.

Hybrid HVAC Systems

Hybrid HVAC systems have become more prevalent in Wisconsin. They are also called duel fuel systems because they combine a heat pump that runs on electricity and a furnace that runs on oil, natural gas, or propane. These setups take advantage of a heat pump’s heating and cooling efficiency during milder weather. During the coldest winter months, the system switches over to a furnace for fast and reliable heating.

Environmental Impact: Comparing Carbon Footprints

In general, the carbon footprint is bigger for traditional HVAC systems, particularly those that use fossil fuels for heating. Plus, the combustion process in gas or oil furnaces releases carbon dioxide into the air. When run on renewable energy, heat pumps can have a smaller carbon footprint. They have varying degrees of environmental benefit depending on the local electrical mix; the benefits are more pronounced in regions with prominent renewable energy sources.

Maintenance Requirements and Costs

In conventional HVAC systems, air conditioners and furnaces are usually serviced separately once a year. Because of their dual purpose, heat pumps typically require servicing twice a year. The intricacy of heat pump systems can make repairs more expensive, but keeping a single system in good working order is usually more cost-effective than maintaining two units. Both kinds require regular upkeep to keep running smoothly, efficiently, and at peak performance for as long as possible. If you have a dual fuel system in Wisconsin, your furnace will likely need less maintenance and have a longer lifetime. It will likely only need to run in January, December, and some of February and November when temperatures drop below freezing for sustained periods.

Noise Levels and Operational Comfort

Some traditional HVAC systems, especially older ones, can make a lot of noise when heating or cooling your home. Heat pumps, particularly newer types, run more constantly at lower speeds, making them generally quieter to operate.

Lifespan

The typical lifespan of a central air conditioner is 10 to 15 years, whereas that of a furnace can be 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Heat pumps that run year-round typically last between 10 and 15 years, with some high-quality, well-maintained models lasting as long as 20. As part of a dual fuel system, homeowners can expect both their heat pump and furnace to last a little longer because they share the responsibility of heating their homes.

Choosing Between Traditional HVAC Systems and Heat Pumps: Factors to Consider

Consider energy expenses when choosing between a heat pump and a conventional HVAC system. A new air conditioner or heat pump will use about the same amount of electricity to cool your home during summer. In general, it will cost less to heat your home during spring and fall with a heat pump, even if electricity prices are high, because they are highly efficient as long as the temperature does not turn frigid.

For the coldest winter months, you can invest in a heat pump designed for cold weather. This will keep your home comfortable for less than it would cost to run a furnace. However, the initial cost of this type of system may outweigh the cost savings you realize over its lifetime. Alternatively, you can opt for a dual fuel system incorporating a cheaper heat pump and a furnace to compensate for its inadequacies when the weather drops below freezing. You will have highly efficient heating and cooling for most of the year and only pay for oil or natural gas when necessary. In addition, many homeowners are okay with paying extra to run a furnace for the coldest months because there is no doubt about their ability to deliver a lot of heat quickly.

Another consideration is that heat pumps might be a more financially appealing choice due to incentives offered by the government or utility companies for energy-efficient systems. Your individual circumstances will determine the optimal course of action. Consult a licensed HVAC expert for tailored advice that considers your house, weather, and requirements. By guiding you through the pros and cons of potential heating and cooling systems, they can help you choose one that meets your needs regarding comfort, energy efficiency, and environmental impact.

Contact the Professionals

If you’re trying to decide between a heat pump and a traditional HVAC system, Southport Home Services is here to help. We work on furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, central air conditioners, and ductless systems. Additionally, we are expert plumbers who offer water treatment, drain cleaning, and plumbing system repair services. Give us a call today to speak with one of our experienced team members about choosing the right HVAC solution for your home in Wausau, WI.

Meet the Author
Thomas Suchla
Thomas Suchla

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