Heat Pump vs. Furnace: Which System Is Best for Your Michigan Home

Your old furnace finally gave out, and you’re deciding between replacing it with another furnace or upgrading to a heat pump…

If you’re milling around your local home improvement store asking yourself, “Which should I choose?” Here’s what you need to know.

How Do Heat Pumps and Furnaces Work?

Despite the name, heat pumps don’t just heat your home – they can cool it, too.

The most common type, an air-source heat pump, uses outdoor air to transfer heat inside during the winter and cool air in the summer. There’s also a geothermal version, which draws heat from the ground instead.

Furnaces, on the other hand, burn fuel like gas or oil to generate heat. Because they don’t offer cooling, you’ll need a separate AC system if you choose a furnace.

Pros and Cons of Heat Pumps

The biggest advantage of a heat pump is its ability to handle both heating and cooling, saving you the cost of a separate air conditioner.

Since heat pumps don’t rely on burning fuel, they also offer cleaner indoor air and are more energy-efficient than furnaces, leading to significant savings on your energy bills.

However, air-source heat pumps have a hard time performing in cold climates like Michigan’s harsh winters. Because they’re installed outdoors, they experience more wear and tear,  and will wear out faster due to being installed outdoors, which can mean more frequent replacements compared to furnaces.

Pros and Cons of Furnaces

Furnaces are a popular choice in Michigan because they provide fast, reliable heat, even in freezing temperatures. They’re also durable, often outlasting heat pumps, and with fewer moving parts, they generally require fewer repairs.

Plus, furnaces tend to be less expensive to install, which can be a relief if you’re watching your budget!

The downside is that furnaces can be costly to operate, especially gas models. They also tend to dry out the air, which could be uncomfortable if you’re prone to dry skin or respiratory issues.

Heat Pump vs. Furnace: What’s Best for Michigan Homes?

Because air-source heat pumps work best in moderate climates, they’re not ideal for use in Michigan, where winter temperatures can drop well below freezing. That’s why most homeowners in Michigan stick with their tried-and-true furnaces, which offer excellent heating capacity.

If you have your heart set on a heat pump, you’ll want a ground-source model, or a hybrid or dual-fuel system, which combines a furnace and a heat pump in one package. The furnace heats your home during winter, while the heat pump handles cooling in the summer.

Still Not Sure? Call Dion’s Complete Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Not sure whether a heat pump or furnace is right for your home? Call Dion’s Complete Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at (734) 506-8979. Our experts will help you choose the best system and make installation a breeze!