Heat Pumps vs. Furnaces

Have you ever wondered what the best heating option for your home in Gaffney is, but didn’t know where to start? The variety of options can be hard to choose from, which is why we are here to help determine the best fit for your home. Two common heating options in South Carolina homes are heat pumps and furnaces, but what is the difference? In this blog, we will discuss the difference between heat pumps and furnaces and the benefits both can provide.

What Is A Heat Pump?

Due to the misleading name, many believe heat pumps can only provide heat for your home. However, heat pumps are a two-in-one system that can provide both heating and cooling. The terms “heat” and “pump” refer to the process of pumping heat from one location to another. In the winter, the device pulls heat energy from the air, ground, or water and transfers it inside. In the summer, heat pumps collect heat inside your home and relocate it outdoors. This process simply transfers heat rather than creating it, which makes it an extremely energy efficient heating option!

Different Types Of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are perfect for subtropical climates such as South Carolina, because it rarely drops below freezing. While heat pumps can draw heat energy from most all climates and temperatures, they are most efficient where there is an abundance of heat energy. If you are considering installing a heat pump for your home in Gaffney, you may wonder which heat pump to choose. Three common types of heat pumps include air source, water source, and ground source (geothermal). All heat pumps operate similarly, but draw heat from either the air, water, or ground surrounding your home. One of our expert technicians can help determine which type of heat pump is best for you!

Heat Pump Components

Most homes use air source heat pumps, because of the easy installation process and benefits the device can provide. According to the U.S. Department Of Energy, air source heat pumps can reduce your electricity use for heating by approximately 50% when compared to other heating options such as furnaces. Air source heat pumps consist of two major components: an outdoor unit and an indoor handler unit. Both contain important sub components, such as refrigerant, compressor, reversing valve, and expansion valve.

Benefits Of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps can provide a variety of benefits for your home, including:

• Energy Efficiency
• Less Maintenance & Repairs
• Environmentally Friendly
• Lower Running Costs
• Provides Both Heating & Cooling

What Is A Furnace?

A furnace is a great, reliable heating option for your home in Gaffney. Furnaces can quickly produce heat and create a comfortable environment in no time. Depending on the type of furnace, most operate by burning fuel to generate heat inside the burner. The heat passes through the heat exchanger, making it hot. Air from your ductwork is then blown over the heat exchanger, which warms it. The blower pushes the warm air through the air ducts and into your home. This process helps keep every corner of your home warm and cozy all winter long.

Different Types Of Furnaces

Furnaces are the most common heating option in the United States, and for a good reason too. When evaluating if a furnace is the best heating option for your home, it is important to understand the differences in furnace types. The four main types of furnaces are natural gas, oil, electric, and propane.

Gas: Natural gas is the most common type of furnace, but requires access to a municipal gas line.

Electric: Electric furnaces are another common option due to the upfront affordability. However, electric charges can become costly over time.

Oil: Oil furnaces are another upfront low cost option, but can be less energy efficient during operation.

Propane: Propane furnaces are an effective heating option and are most commonly used where gas and oil are not easily accessible.

Furnace Components

Furnaces work by generating and distributing heat throughout your home with the help of many components. Furnaces are one indoor unit and generally located in a utility closet or basement. The main parts of furnaces include the gas valve, burners, heat exchanger, blower, and duct and ventilation system. Furnace efficiency is measured by annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), which is described in depth by the U.S. Department Of Energy.

Benefits Of A Furnace

Furnaces can provide many benefits for your home in Gaffney, including:

• Reliable, Fast Heating
• Long Lifespan
• Flexibility
• Improved Indoor Air Quality
• Affordability

Heat Pump & Furnace Services In Gaffney

Our trained technicians can provide many services to all types and brands of heat pumps and furnaces. Our heat pump and furnace services include:

• Installation
• Repair
• Replacement
• Maintenance

If you are deciding whether to install a heat pump or furnace in your home, give us a call! Childers Heating and Air Conditioning can help determine the perfect heating option for your space. We understand installing or replacing your heating system is an investment, which is why we offer free estimates and financing services! Let us help keep your home at a comfortable temperature this winter.