The Consequences of a Poorly Calculated Choice for Your HVAC System
When a client is faced with a crucial choice regarding the installation of their heating and cooling system, they may sometimes be tempted to choose both a heat pump and a furnace to have "the best of both worlds." However, this type of decision can lead to unexpected issues, both financially and in terms of comfort. At AirGreen, we’ve encountered many clients who, after opting for this double installation, find themselves facing excessive costs and unnecessary complexity. In this article, we will explore why keeping both systems is not always the best solution.
When Keeping Both a Heat Pump and a Furnace Becomes a Bad Choice
1. The Initial Cost of Installation
One of the main disadvantages of having both a heat pump and a furnace is the initial cost. Not only does purchasing both systems represent a significant expense, but the installation of two separate pieces of equipment can also lead to additional costs in terms of labor, electrical wiring, and connections. At AirGreen, when we install hybrid systems, the total cost can quickly double compared to installing just one device. For example, adding a furnace to a Gree Extrême 18,000 BTU heat pump or a Fujitsu KZAH R-32 could substantially increase the final bill.
2. The Space Required for Installation
Another important consideration is the space required for the installation of two separate systems. A furnace requires additional storage space, and in many homes, this means sacrificing a storage room or part of the living space. In smaller homes or apartments, this can become a major issue. If space is limited, a more compact solution, like a heat pump alone, would be much better suited to maximize space efficiency while maintaining optimal thermal comfort.
3. Redundancy in Terms of Energy Efficiency
Another often overlooked aspect is energy efficiency. Since the heat pump is designed to be an all-in-one solution, the presence of a furnace can lead to energy wastage, especially if the furnace is used for extended periods when the heat pump could suffice. For example, a high-quality heat pump like the Gree Extrême 18,000 BTU is ideal for efficient heating in winter and optimal cooling in summer, without needing to rely on a furnace. By opting for both systems, the client might end up with higher energy consumption than with just one heat pump, negating the energy savings they were hoping for.
4. System Complexity and Maintenance
Another downside of having two different systems is the complexity of maintenance and upkeep. With both a heat pump and a furnace, it’s necessary to manage two different types of maintenance, with different schedules and service needs. The heat pump requires regular checks for refrigerant charge, filters, and drainage systems, while the furnace must be serviced separately, including cleaning the burners and ducts. This means higher maintenance costs and an increased risk of malfunction if either system is not properly maintained.
5. Thermal Comfort
Another problem encountered by those who choose to keep both a heat pump and a furnace is the issue of thermal comfort. The heat pump and furnace are not always perfectly synchronized, which can lead to temperature fluctuations inside the home. For example, if the furnace is running during a particularly cold day, and the heat pump kicks in when the temperature rises, it can result in uncomfortable temperature variations. A properly sized heat pump installed alone could maintain a steady temperature without the complexity of a two-device system, providing a more consistent and comfortable indoor environment.
A Simpler Solution: Choosing Only a Heat Pump
At AirGreen, we believe that a properly sized heat pump is an all-in-one solution that provides both heating and cooling year-round. For instance, an 18,000 BTU Fujitsu KZAH R-32 heat pump, installed in a typical home in Montreal, can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature in both winter and summer, while being more energy-efficient than a combination of heat pump and furnace.
We’ve also found that many clients who opt for just the heat pump enjoy long-term savings on their energy bills, along with increased comfort, without the complexity of a two-system setup. For example, in a recent project in Laval, we installed a Gree Extrême heat pump that allowed the client to reduce their energy consumption by 30%, while providing consistent warmth and fresh air during the summer.
Conclusion: Think Carefully Before You Choose
If you are considering keeping both a heat pump and a furnace, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. While the idea of combining both systems may seem appealing at first, there are many pitfalls to avoid, including higher installation costs, wasted space, and increased energy consumption. At AirGreen, we generally recommend a single, properly sized heat pump for your space, as it offers a simpler, more efficient, and more cost-effective long-term solution.