Here in New Jersey, temperatures vary through the seasons. Maybe you’ve already given your furnace a trial run and noticed it wasn’t running well. On the other hand, your air conditioner may have worked just fine over the last few months. You may be faced with the question of replacing at least one – and possibly both – of your units. Could a heat pump be the answer?
The technology of heat pumps
A heat pump works differently than a furnace, which uses energy to create warmth by heating the air. Instead, a heat pump transfers heat from one place to another, which uses less energy. It takes heat from the air outside to produce cool temperatures indoors, and vice versa. Because it works both ways, heat pumps can be used to both heat and cool your home.
To replace, or not to replace?
When you’re considering whether to replace one unit or both, it may seem like a no-brainer to only replace the one that is failing. There’s an argument to make, though, for replacing both units at the same time with a heat pump. It can save significant energy and money over time. Some of the benefits include:
Efficiency – Technology has only improved the efficiency. Today’s heat pumps use far less energy than a gas furnace. Heat pumps with a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating are more expensive up front, but they use less energy, therefore saving you money in the long run.
Cost of operation –Â Electricity costs less than natural gas in most areas. Since heat pumps use electricity, running them costs less than the furnace that is powered by natural gas.
Noise –Â Heat pumps are less noisy than a running furnace.
Safety – There’s no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning with a heat pump.
When replacing your heating and cooling units, Heating Specialties can help.  We’ll help you find the best option for your home and budget. Call us or request your next appointment online!