Choosing between a heat pump and furnace represents one of the most significant decisions you’ll make for your home’s comfort system. With over 70 years of experience installing and maintaining both systems throughout the Tulsa metro area, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners navigate this choice.
The decision isn’t just about initial cost—it’s about long-term efficiency, comfort, and reliability for your specific situation.
Understanding the Fundamentals
Heat pumps and furnaces operate on completely different principles. A furnace generates heat by burning natural gas, propane, or using electric resistance coils. Heat pumps, however, transfer existing heat from outside air into your home, even when outdoor temperatures drop below freezing.
This fundamental difference affects everything from operating costs to installation requirements. Heat pumps can both heat and cool your home, while furnaces require a separate air conditioning system for summer comfort.
The technology behind heat pumps has advanced significantly in recent years. Modern units can extract heat from outdoor air even when temperatures reach 5°F below zero, making them viable options for Oklahoma’s climate.
Climate Considerations for Tulsa Homeowners
Oklahoma’s climate presents unique challenges for heating systems. Our winters typically see temperatures ranging from the teens to the 40s, with occasional dips below 10°F during extreme cold snaps.
Heat pumps excel in moderate climates like ours. They operate most efficiently when outdoor temperatures stay above 25-30°F, which covers the majority of our heating season. During these conditions, a quality heat pump can deliver 200-300% efficiency—meaning it produces two to three times more heat energy than the electricity it consumes.
When temperatures drop below a heat pump’s efficient operating range, the system relies on backup electric resistance heating. This reduces efficiency but ensures consistent comfort. Some homeowners pair heat pumps with a small backup furnace for maximum efficiency and reliability.
Furnaces maintain consistent efficiency regardless of outdoor temperature. A 90% efficient gas furnace delivers the same performance whether it’s 20°F or 50°F outside.
Operating Cost Analysis
The ongoing costs of heating your home depend on several factors:
- Local utility rates for electricity and natural gas
- System efficiency ratings
- Your home’s insulation and air sealing
- Personal comfort preferences
- Climate patterns in your specific area
Natural gas typically costs less per BTU than electricity in the Tulsa area. However, heat pumps’ superior efficiency often offsets this price difference during moderate weather. The calculation becomes more complex when considering year-round operation, as heat pumps eliminate the need for separate cooling equipment.
A properly sized and installed heat pump can reduce heating costs by 30-50% compared to electric resistance heating. When compared to gas furnaces, the savings depend on current utility rates and how often outdoor temperatures drop below the heat pump’s efficient operating range.
We’ve observed that homeowners with well-insulated homes and moderate heating needs often see lower utility bills with heat pumps. Those with larger homes, minimal insulation, or preferences for very warm indoor temperatures may find gas furnaces more economical.
Installation and Maintenance Factors
Heat pump installations typically require more planning and expertise. The outdoor unit must be positioned for optimal airflow and drainage, with consideration for noise levels and aesthetic concerns. Indoor modifications may include upgrading electrical service, installing new thermostats, and potentially modifying ductwork.
Furnace installations are generally more straightforward, especially when replacing an existing gas system. The main considerations involve proper venting, gas line sizing, and ensuring adequate combustion air.
From a maintenance perspective, both systems require annual professional service. Heat pumps need attention to both heating and cooling components, while furnaces require gas safety inspections and heat exchanger evaluations.
Durability and Longevity
Well-maintained furnaces typically last 15-20 years in our experience. The simpler design and seasonal operation contribute to their longevity. Gas furnaces have fewer moving parts than heat pumps and don’t operate year-round.
Heat pumps generally last 12-15 years with proper maintenance. Because they operate for both heating and cooling, they accumulate more runtime hours annually. However, the absence of combustion components eliminates certain failure modes common in furnaces.
The key to maximizing either system’s lifespan is professional installation and regular maintenance. Poor installation can cut years off a system’s life, regardless of the technology chosen.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Your specific situation determines which system serves you best. Consider these factors when evaluating options:
Choose a heat pump if:
- Your home has good insulation and air sealing
- You prefer having one system for both heating and cooling
- Environmental impact is a priority
- You’re building new or undertaking major renovations
- Your current ductwork is in good condition
Choose a furnace if:
- Natural gas is readily available and reasonably priced
- You have an older home with minimal insulation
- You prefer very warm indoor temperatures
- Your existing furnace infrastructure is in good condition
- You want the simplest, most proven technology
Some homeowners benefit from hybrid systems that combine both technologies. These systems use the heat pump during moderate weather and switch to the furnace during extreme cold, optimizing efficiency and comfort year-round.
Professional Assessment Makes the Difference
Every home presents unique challenges and opportunities. Factors like existing ductwork condition, electrical capacity, insulation levels, and your family’s comfort preferences all influence the optimal choice.
We’ve repaired and maintained both heat pumps and furnaces from every major manufacturer. This experience allows us to provide honest assessments based on your specific situation rather than pushing any particular technology.
Our technicians evaluate your home’s heating load, existing infrastructure, and long-term goals to recommend the system that delivers the best value for your investment.
The right heating system is the one that keeps your family comfortable while fitting your budget and lifestyle. Whether that’s a high-efficiency heat pump, a reliable gas furnace, or a combination approach, the decision should be based on technical analysis and honest expertise.
Contact Sigler Heat & Air to schedule a comprehensive assessment of your home’s heating needs. Our technicians will evaluate your specific situation and provide clear recommendations without sales pressure—because that’s how we’ve served Tulsa families since 1947.
