Unfortunately, there isn’t a right or wrong answer to this question. If you are looking for a straightforward answer, we’re sorry to disappoint you. That’s because HVAC in Westlake, OH isn’t clear-cut; our winters are cold and our summers are warm. Living in a climate like ours isn’t easy for heating or cooling because the temperatures can vary so greatly.
Since Ohio is right on that line between moderate and extreme cold during the winter, we’d like to take a second to talk about the heating options available and what they mean for you and your home. If you’re in the market for a new heating system, you’re probably used to seeing both furnaces and heat pumps advertised in the Westlake area.
Homeowners replacing an existing furnace may also want to consider whether a heat pump is a good furnace replacement before deciding which system fits their home.
So, let’s break down each type of heater with some pros and cons, and make sure you’re informed when it comes to deciding the system that’s right for you.
Heat Pumps
More versatile than other heating systems, heat pumps are seen more often in moderate climates with hot summers and mild winters. Since they function as both air conditioners and as heaters, these systems can be incredibly efficient and can be an easy purchase for homeowners who don’t want to worry about heating and cooling systems.
Pros
- Energy Efficient. Heat pumps transfer heat instead of creating it. Add in the fact that they function on electricity, and this makes them incredibly efficient.
- Air Quality. Heat pumps circulate air that’s naturally humid as opposed to a furnace that creates hot, dry air during the winter.
- Lower Cost. Since heat pumps can function as air conditioners as well, you’re really purchasing two systems for the price of one.
Cons
- Not as Warm. Heat pumps produce air that’s not as warm or cozy as the air you would get from a furnace. This makes furnaces more common in colder climates.
- Not ideal below freezing. In climates where the outdoor temperature routinely dips below freezing, a heat pump will have a harder time producing enough heat to be comfortable.
Furnaces
The most common type of heater in the United States, furnaces are reliable and effective, providing quality heating at a fairly low cost. If you’ve got natural gas available for your furnace, then you can heat your home effectively and efficiently this winter.
Pros
- Cost. Furnaces are affordable and effective.
- Cozy Heat. Heat pumps just can’t create the cozy warmth that a furnace can.
- Less Maintenance. Furnaces only operate for a few months of the year, requiring less maintenance while increasing their lifespans.
Cons
- Dry Air. The heat produced from a furnace might be warm, but it is also dry. You might want to look into installing a whole-home humidifier to counter this.
- Energy Cost. Natural gas is cost-effective, but it will never be as cheap as running a heat pump system. Creating heat is not as efficient as transferring it.
We hope our details are as clear and concise as possible. Now that you’re more informed, we hope you take some of these points with you when you look into choosing a new heater.
If you’re looking for reliable service from an experienced team, call Westland Heating & Air Conditioning today!
