If you’re building a new home or replacing an aging HVAC system, one of your most significant decisions is using a heat pump or a furnace. The right choice depends on your local climate, energy efficiency goals, and overall budget.
This guide compares each system’s cost, efficiency, and pros and cons to help Tacoma-area homeowners make an informed decision.
Comparing Cost & Efficiency
Upfront & Operating Costs
Furnacestypically have a lower upfront cost. Depending on the fuel source (natural gas, electric, or propane), the installation cost for a basic furnace system in Tacoma can range from $3,000 to $6,000. Furnaces are also simple to maintain, keeping long-term servicing costs relatively low.
On the other hand, heat pumps have a higher upfront installation cost—usually $4,000 to $10,000, depending on the system type (ducted vs. ductless) and home size. However, heat pumps provide heating and cooling, eliminating the need for a separate air conditioner, potentially offsetting some of the installation expense.
Heat pumps are significantly more energy efficient in terms of operating cost, especially in milder temperatures. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners switching to heat pumps from older gas or electric furnaces can save up to 50%on their heating bills.
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Energy Usage by Climate
Your geographic locationmatters most here. Heat pumps perform well year-round in moderate climates like Tacoma, where winters are cold but not extreme. They’re exceptionally efficient when temperatures hover above freezing during spring and fall.
However, furnaces maintain an edge in regions that experience long, deep freezes. Gas furnaces can consistently produce high heat output, even in subzero temperatures, while standard heat pumps become less efficient.
That said, modern cold-climate heat pumpscan now operate effectively in temperatures as low as -5°F, making them viable even in colder areas—especially when paired with a backup heating source.
Pros and Cons of Each System
Pros of Heat Pumps
- Dual function: Offers both heating and air conditioning
- High energy efficiency: Uses electricity to transfer heat rather than generate it
- Lower carbon emissions: Especially when paired with clean electricity
- Incentives: May qualify for federal tax credits and local rebates
- Even heat distribution: Avoids hot and cold spots common with forced air
Learn about ductless mini-split systems
Cons of Heat Pumps
- Higher upfront cost
- May struggle in extreme cold (unless it’s a cold-climate model)
- Can require electrical upgrades if switching from gas
Pros of Furnaces
- Lower initial cost
- Quick, powerful heat output– ideal for cold snaps
- Familiar technology: Widely available parts and service providers
- Works well with existing ductwork
Schedule furnace repairs in Tacoma
Cons of Furnaces
- Requires a separate AC system for cooling
- Less energy efficient (especially older gas models)
- More greenhouse gas emissions (in gas-powered units)
- Can dry out indoor air
Key Decision Factors: Which Should You Choose?
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to make the choice easier:
| Feature | Heat Pump | Furnace |
| Initial Installation Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Heating Efficiency | High (especially in mild climates) | High in cold climates |
| Cooling Capability | Yes (built-in) | No (requires separate AC unit) |
| Environmental Impact | Lower (especially electric models) | Higher (especially gas models) |
| Maintenance Needs | Seasonal service recommended | Seasonal service recommended |
| Incentives Available | Yes (federal/state rebates) | Fewer incentives available |
Tacoma-Specific Rebates and Incentives
Washington residents may qualify for several rebates when installing high-efficiency HVAC systems:
- Federal Inflation Reduction Actincentives for ENERGY STAR-certified heat pumps
- Puget Sound Energy (PSE)rebates for heat pump conversions and ductless mini-split installations
- Tacoma Powerrebates for ductless and central heat pumps
Checklocal incentivesor ask a Hunt’s Services technician for details.
Let Hunt’s Help You Choose
Whether you’re drawn to a heat pump’s year-round efficiency or the reliability of a traditional furnace, Hunt’s Services is here to help.
Our licensed HVAC professionals evaluate:
- Your home’s insulation and ductwork
- Local Tacoma climate factors
- Your energy goals and available rebates
We’ll recommend the best-fit system to maximize your comfort and energy savings. We also offer financing optionsand Care Club maintenance plansfor long-term protection.
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FAQs
1. What’s cheaper to run, a furnace or a heat pump?
Heat pumps are cheaper to run in moderate climates like Tacoma due to their higher energy efficiency. They transfer heat rather than generate it, which uses less electricity.
2. Will a heat pump work during freezing weather?
Yes, especially cold-climate-rated heat pumpsoperate efficiently down to -5°F. In icy areas, a backup heat source (like electric resistance coils or a gas furnace) may still be recommended.
3. Can I replace my furnace with a heat pump?
Yes. Many homeowners are switching from gas or electric furnaces to heat pumps. Hunt’s Services can inspect your electrical panel, ductwork, and insulation to determine what upgrades may be needed for a successful transition.
