Gas Furnace or Heat Pump?
Gas Furnace or Electric Heat Pump System?
First you will need to consider the climate in Georgia
Georgia normally has mild winters and hot, humid summers, in cities like Winder or Lawrenceville. Our Winters seldom reach persistent sub-freezing temperatures, making it a moderate climate for heating.
Heat Pump: Best Choice for Most Georgia Homes
Why Heat Pumps Work Well in Georgia
Highly efficient in mild climates: Heat pumps move heat instead of creating it. Therefore, the heat pump uses much less energy in moderate temperatures like Georgia’s winters.
Year-round heating and cooling: One system provides both heat in winter and cooling in summer. You will be using only electricity to heat and cool your home. You don’t have to worry about Carbon Monoxide Leaks coming from your heating system.
Lower utility bills: The Heat Pump System transfers heat efficiently, running costs can be lower than gas in Georgia’s Moderate Climate.
Eco-friendly: The Heat Pump moves heat rather than creating it by burning natural gas.
That means:
No on-site combustion
No carbon monoxide
No direct greenhouse gas emissions from your home
A gas furnace burns natural gas, which emits CO₂ and other pollutants.
Considerations for Heat Pump
Performance drops at very low temps: Traditional heat pumps become less efficient below about 40°F. This is why if you lived in a Colder Climate, you would not want a heat pump system.
Electricity costs matter: Savings depend on how much you pay for electricity vs. gas.
Upfront cost: Sometimes Heat Pump Systems can cost more initially but normally save you money over time.
Gas Furnace: Good but Often Less Optimal in Georgia
Powerful Heat Output: Gas Furnaces will get your home warm and get it done quickly.
Consistent performance: Gas heating isn’t affected by outdoor temperature like a heat pump’s heat transfer is. When the temperature is below 40 degrees the gas will still stay consistent in heating.
Drawbacks
Only heats: You’ll still need a separate Air Conditioner and Evaporator Coil for cooling.
Safety concerns: Requires combustion and ventilation. This could cause potential risks like carbon monoxide.
Gas furnaces are reliable but in Georgia’s milder climate they often aren’t worth the extra cost and separate cooling system.
Overall Best Option: Dual-Fuel System (Heat Pump + Gas Backup)
If you already have natural gas and want both reliability and efficiency, a dual-fuel system can combine the best of both worlds:
The heat pump handles most heating and cooling year-round.
The gas furnace will kick in only on the coldest few days when the heat pump efficiency drops.
This setup maximizes efficiency and comfort while giving peace of mind in cold snaps.
