Important Highlights
- Gas furnaces produce heat through combustion, while heat pumps transfer already existing heat from one place to another.
- Heat pumps are an excellent choice for areas with mild climates, like Brea and nearby California communities.
- Both heat pumps and gas furnaces are good options for Southern California residents.
Understanding the Difference Between Heat Pumps and Gas Furnaces
What is the difference between a heat pump vs. a gas furnace? Both will heat your home, but they differ in energy efficiency, size, cost, and heating capability.
How a heat pump works
A heat pump works by using refrigerant coils, which transfer heat from the outside air indoors to warm your house in the winter. It can be reversed in the summer, moving the heat from inside your house out.
How a gas furnace works
Gas furnaces burn fuel (natural gas or propane) to create heat using a combustion process. When the gas ignites inside the furnace, the reaction creates heated air, which is then circulated through the house.
At Service Lion, we provide heater installation services to Orange County residents. Our experienced technicians are available to help you choose between a traditional furnace and a heat pump, making sure you get the right type of heater for your needs.
Which Heating System Performs Better in Orange County’s Climate?
Location is one of the biggest considerations when choosing between a gas furnace and a heat pump installation. Orange County’s climate is characterized as Mediterranean, meaning summers are warm and winters are mild and wet, with especially chilly weather from November through February.
In colder environments, some heat pumps won’t operate as efficiently and require a backup heater, but thanks to the OC’s moderate yearly temperatures, residents have the option to choose either heater type.
Some factors to consider when choosing between furnace or heat pump installation include:
- Home requirements: Do you have the ductwork and gas line required for a gas furnace? If not, you’ll need to pay for ductwork installation and gas hookups as well.
- Heating and cooling capabilities: Do you want a system that provides year-round heating and cooling, or would you prefer two separate HVAC units?
Cost Comparison — Heat Pump vs Gas Furnace Installation & Operation
Some of the cost concerns to consider when choosing between a gas furnace vs. a heat pump in Brea and other Orange County communities are:
- Initial cost: A heat pump will likely cost more initially, but the investment could pay off in long-term energy savings.
- The cost of gas in your area: In Orange County, gas may not be as cheap as it is in other parts of the country, which will affect your long-term operational costs.
- Incentives and rebates: California offers local incentives to encourage residents to opt for an energy-efficient heat pump, saving you money.
Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Savings
New gas furnace models are much more efficient than older models, especially those that have a high AFUE rating. Heat pumps are an even more energy-efficient option, as they move already existing heat from outside your home to the indoors, while gas furnaces need to burn fuel to create heat. If you’re looking for an efficient gas furnace replacement or want to reduce your environmental footprint, consider installing a heat pump in your home.
For even better energy efficiency, consider a smart thermostat along with your new home heater. A smart thermostat will improve efficiency by:
- Connecting to your WiFi so you can control the temperature from anywhere.
- Learning your indoor climate preferences and switching to energy-saving temperatures when you’re away or asleep.
- Using geofencing technology to know when you’re on the way home, so you can enjoy a warm and cozy home when you walk in the door, while saving energy when you’re out.
- Providing temperature data to help you track your thermostat use.
Energy efficiency converts to money savings, because the less electricity or fuel your heater needs to create heat, the less money you’ll spend on your utility bill each month.
Which System Lasts Longer in Southern California Homes?
If you’re looking for longevity, the best heating system for your Orange County home will be a gas furnace. A properly sized and installed gas furnace will have a service life averaging 15 to 20 years. With regular maintenance, it may be extended to 25 or even 30 years.
A heat pump, on average, has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, because it’s often used year-round. A heat pump in California will be under less strain in the warmer climate than it would be in a colder state. If it’s properly installed and maintained, it’s possible your heat pump could operate efficiently for up to 20 years.
Financing Options for Heat Pump or Furnace Installation
Is the cost of furnace installation stopping you from upgrading your home heating system? At Service Lion, we offer financing to our customers, making it easy to afford the heat pump or furnace you want. To get started, call us and speak with a technician who will explain how to set up a personalized short- or long-term monthly payment plan for your new HVAC appliance.
Why Orange County Homeowners Choose Service Lion
Orange County homeowners choose Service Lion because:
- Our technicians are certified, knowledgeable, and reliable, and strive to exceed your expectations, with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- We’ve earned an excellent local reputation over the past decade in Orange County.
- We care about helping homeowners live in greater safety and comfort.
- Our services include heating repair, installations, tune-ups, inspections, and more.
- We offer flexible scheduling, including same-day service.
Contact us today if your furnace is blowing cold air, you want to schedule heater maintenance, or you’re ready to upgrade your old heating system to a new gas furnace or heat pump. Use our online form, or give us a call at (657) 571-7962.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a gas furnace provide better heating than a heat pump during cooler months in Orange County?
No, gas furnaces may produce higher temperatures, but they will use more energy doing so. Both heat pumps and gas furnaces are excellent heating options in Orange County’s moderate climate, but a heat pump is more energy-efficient, which may save you money in the long term.
How much could I save on utility bills with a heat pump instead of a gas furnace in Southern California?
Many Southern California homes save hundreds of dollars per year when they switch to an air source or ground source heat pump from natural gas or propane heat. You’ll enjoy premium comfort while paying less on your utility bills.
What size heat pump or gas furnace do I need for an average home in Orange County?
Your heater size depends on factors like your home size, how many rooms there are, your ductwork setup, your home’s insulation, and more. A certified HVAC technician will be able to give you a good idea of what size heat pump or gas furnace you need after an in-home consultation.
