Construction & Architecture / Energy & HVAC
Heat Pump vs Furnace Operating Cost Calculator
US average: $1.00-$1.50/therm (check your gas bill)
Heat Pump vs Gas Furnace Guide
Key Decision Factors: Climate, electricity vs gas rates, and whether you need AC.
When Heat Pumps Win:
- Mild to moderate climates (winter lows > 20°F)
- Low electricity rates (<$0.12/kWh)
- High gas rates (>$1.50/therm)
- You need both heating and cooling
- No natural gas available
When Gas Furnaces Win:
- Cold climates (frequent temps < 20°F)
- Low natural gas rates (<$1.00/therm)
- High electricity rates (>$0.16/kWh)
- Already have AC, just need heating
Hybrid Systems:
Dual-fuel systems use heat pump in mild weather, switch to gas furnace in extreme cold. Best of both worlds but higher upfront cost.
Note: Modern cold-climate heat pumps can work down to -15°F. Consult HVAC professional for your specific needs.
Use this heat pump vs furnace operating cost calculator to compute energy & hvac results from your inputs.
Formula
Annual heating load (BTU) = (HDD × 24 × Sq ft × Insulation factor) Heat pump annual cost = (Heating load / HSPF / 3.412) × Electricity rate Furnace annual cost = (Heating load / AFUE) × Fuel cost / Fuel BTU content Annual savings = Higher cost - Lower cost