Furnace vs. Heat Pump: Which Should You Choose?
Ken Gibson • December 27, 2022

Furnace vs. Heat Pump: Which Should You Choose?


When it’s time to replace your heating system, you’ll face a decision regarding the type of system you want to install. A furnace will burn gas or heating oil to heat your home, while a heat pump will use electricity to draw air from outside, heat it, and release it into your home. 


As you choose between these two systems, consider these important factors.


Energy Efficiency of a Furnace vs. Heat Pump in Cherry Hill, NJ

A heat pump is generally less energy efficient due to the process it uses to heat the air. Since it draws in air from outside and runs it through a heating element, it won’t function as well when the temperatures get lower. This system is ideal for a warmer climate where the temperature may be chilly but won’t drop to freezing.


Conversely, a furnace will use gas or oil to heat air that’s already present in the home. Since the air is already warmer, it can heat it more efficiently.


How the Noise Level Will Affect Comfort

There’s a noticeable difference in noise levels when comparing a furnace vs. heat pump in Cherry Hill, NJ. Since most furnaces are in a basement or another remote location, you typically won’t hear more than the soft flow of air through the home’s ducts.


With a system that uses a heat pump, a cycle often starts with a clicking or knocking sound. While the pump itself is outside the home, the indoor unit or handler does make noise as it operates.


Will You Want to Cool Your Home?

Deciding between a furnace vs. heat pump in Cherry Hill, NJ, will depend on your cooling needs. If your home has a separate air conditioning system, you might want to stick with a furnace for your home. 


If you will need a unit that will also cool your home, a heat pump is the better choice. The pump reverses its operation when switching between heating and cooling, but it always uses the same refrigerant, coils, and other mechanisms to operate.


Installing Your Furnace or Heat Pump

When it comes to heating your home, you’ll want the experienced services provided by Gibson Heating & Cooling. We can install your new furnace or heat pump as well as provide quality maintenance and repairs. For expert air and customer care, contact us today.


Gibson HVAC technician checking an outdoor AC unit for signs of short cycling in a residential yard.
By Kenneth Gibson August 25, 2025
Is your AC starting and stopping too frequently? Learn common causes of short cycling—like refrigerant leaks or thermostat issues—and how to fix them fast.
Technician inspecting a residential heat pump unit for repairs in Cinnaminson, NJ.
By Kenneth Gibson July 23, 2025
Noticing strange noises, high energy bills, or poor airflow? Learn the signs you need heat pump repairs in Cinnaminson to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Technician performing routine maintenance on a residential air conditioning unit.
By Kenneth Gibson June 17, 2025
Discover why annual AC maintenance in Cinnaminson helps prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency, and extend your system’s lifespan. Schedule your check-up today.
Homeowner adjusting smart thermostat to save on summer cooling costs.
By Kenneth Gibson May 22, 2025
Save money on your summer energy bills with smart thermostat use, ceiling fans, and AC maintenance. Call our Mt. Laurel AC experts for affordable cooling solutions!
HVAC technician performing a spring AC tune-up in a residential Cinnaminson home.
By Kenneth Gibson April 14, 2025
Spring is the best time to schedule your AC tune-up in Cinnaminson. Catch issues early, improve efficiency, and avoid summer repair delays. Book today!
A man feeling cold at home needs furnace maintenance in a Cinnaminson home during winter.
By Kenneth Gibson March 15, 2025
Keep your furnace running efficiently in extreme cold with these expert tips. Need furnace repair in Cinnaminson? Call Gibson Heating & Cooling today!
Show More