In this article…
- Gas vs. Heat Pump HVAC Systems: How Do They Work?
- Gas vs. Heat Pump HVAC Systems: Benefits and Potential Drawbacks
- Gas vs. Heat Pump HVAC Systems: How Much Do They Cost?
- What to Consider When Choosing Between a Gas vs. Heat Pump System
- Gas vs. Heat Pump HVAC Systems: Which is Best For Me?
Whether your AC isn’t cooling properly or you’re looking to preventatively replace your HVAC system, shopping for a new HVAC system can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options on the market.
One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a traditional gas system or an all-electric heat pump. Both systems can effectively heat and cool your home, but they work differently and impact your comfort, energy use, and wallet.
It’s common to stick with the same HVAC system type you currently have in your home (especially if you utilize natural gas). But that doesn’t mean you can’t change your mind and upgrade your home with an electric, energy-efficient heat pump.
Wright Home Services has been providing San Antonio homeowners with high-quality HVAC system replacements and maintenance services since 1979.
Our team of certified professional installers is experienced in both gas and heat pump replacements and maintenance, ensuring no matter what service you need, we’ll get the job done Wright.
We understand that finding the right HVAC solution for you can be difficult, especially if you are considering switching your system from gas to a heat pump. You want to understand how they both function, cost, and more to ensure you make the best decision for your home.
This article will break down how each system functions, the pros and cons of each, and what to keep in mind when choosing the best fit for your home and climate.
Gas vs. Heat Pump HVAC Systems: How Do They Work?
Before you compare performance or price between systems, it’s helpful to understand how gas and heat pump systems function and how they differ. Both are designed to keep your home comfortable year-round, but they go about it in very different ways.
How Do Gas HVAC Systems Work?
A gas HVAC system uses a furnace powered by natural gas or propane to heat your home. When the temperature drops, the thermostat signals the furnace to ignite a burner. That burner heats a metal exchanger, and a blower fan pushes warm air through your ductwork.
For cooling, a separate air conditioner kicks in during the warmer months, using electricity to move heat out of your home.
How Do Heat Pump HVAC Systems Work?
A heat pump works more like a two-way air conditioner. In the winter, it pulls heat from the outside air and transfers it indoors. In the summer, it works in reverse, removing heat from inside and releasing it outside.
Everything runs on electricity, and there’s no need for a separate heating or cooling system. It’s an all-in-one solution that’s become especially popular in areas with mild to moderate winters, like San Antonio.
In short, gas furnaces generate heat, while heat pumps transfer it. Understanding this basic difference can help you determine which system makes the most sense for your local climate and energy needs.
Note: If your home does not currently utilize natural gas, it’s uncommon to switch from a heat pump HVAC system to a gas system as you would have to install gas lines throughout your home. It is more common to switch from a gas system to a heat pump for homeowners who want to move away from natural gas as an energy source.
Gas vs. Heat Pump HVAC Systems: Benefits and Potential Drawbacks
Now that you know how each system works, let’s take a closer look at what each has to offer and where they might fall short.
Choosing the right system isn’t just about heating or cooling power—it’s about how that power fits your lifestyle, your home, and your long-term goals.
What Are the Benefits and Potential Drawbacks of a Gas HVAC System?
Gas furnaces are known for producing strong, consistent warmth, which is great for homes in colder regions.
In areas where natural gas is abundant and cheap, running a gas furnace can be very affordable and lower overall heating costs.
Gas systems also reduce strain on the electrical grid, which can be helpful during outages or in regions with high electricity rates.
One of the largest drawbacks of a gas system is that it requires two separate systems for both heating and cooling.
Anytime natural gas is part of the equation, you also have to factor in the potential risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Gas systems require proper venting and regular inspections to ensure safety from combustion byproducts.
Burning fossil fuels also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and can raise your household’s carbon footprint, which may be a large negative depending on your green thumb.
What Are the Benefits and Potential Drawbacks of a Heat Pump?
Heat pumps handle both heating and cooling with a single system, making them compact and efficient. In fact, heat pump systems can reduce your energy usage by up to 50%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
No burning fuel means no direct emissions, making heat pumps a more eco-friendly option.
While heat pumps are incredibly efficient in the summertime, some heat pumps can struggle and even freeze up in very cold temperatures. In colder climates, a supplemental heat source like electric resistance coils or a gas furnace may be needed for added support.
Electricity costs can vary, and in areas with high electricity rates, running a heat pump could be more expensive than natural gas heating.
How Do Gas and Heat Pumps Compare in Their Pros and Cons?
Both systems have unique strengths and limitations. Gas systems are ideal for colder climates as they provide reliable heat sourced from natural gas.
Heat pumps, on the other hand, are more energy efficient for homes in milder climates that have hotter summers rather than freezing winters.
It all comes down to your home’s needs, your climate, and whether you prioritize energy efficiency, low fuel costs, or strong heating performance.
Gas vs. Heat Pump HVAC Systems: How Much Do They Cost?
Upfront costs, operating expenses, and long-term savings can all play a big role in which system is right for you. Let’s break it down in the overall costs as well as the day-to-day.
To install a gas HVAC system, the cost ranges from as little as $5,000 to $10,000 as a starting cost, whereas heat pumps can cost upwards of $15,000 or more for high-efficiency systems.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the varying costs that affect the overall price tag of your new system:
1. Installation Costs
Gas systems are generally less expensive to install, especially if your home already has gas lines in place and you’re simply replacing an older unit. Heat pumps can cost more up front, particularly if you’re upgrading to a high-efficiency model or converting from gas to electric.
2. Operating Costs
Day-to-day costs depend on local utility rates. If natural gas is inexpensive where you live, a gas furnace can be cheaper to run in the winter. On the other hand, in areas with affordable electricity or mild weather, a heat pump could save you money throughout the year, especially if you’re using it for both heating and cooling.
3. Incentives & Rebates
Heat pumps often qualify for energy-efficiency incentives and rebates through local utility companies or federal tax credits. Those savings can help offset the initial cost and make a heat pump more affordable in the long run.
While gas systems often win on initial cost, heat pumps can offer better long-term savings, especially with rebates and energy efficiency in your favor.
Read more about how much a new HVAC system costs!
What to Consider When Choosing Between a Gas vs. Heat Pump System
If you’re still on the fence about whether a gas or heat pump system is right for you, here are a few extra factors that might tip the scales one way or the other.
- Climate – Heat pumps perform best in regions with mild to moderate winters. If your area sees prolonged sub-freezing temperatures, a gas furnace or a hybrid system might be a smarter choice.
- Ductwork and home layout – If your home doesn’t have ductwork, ductless heat pumps (mini-splits) can be a practical and energy-efficient alternative.
- Environmental impact – Reducing your carbon footprint is easier with an all-electric heat pump, especially if your electricity comes from renewable sources.
- Backup heat options – Some homeowners opt for dual-fuel systems that combine a heat pump with a gas furnace for maximum efficiency and performance across all seasons.
- Maintenance and lifespan – Both systems require annual maintenance, but gas systems involve additional safety inspections due to combustion. Heat pumps, being electric, may have fewer safety concerns but require their own upkeep.
Your ideal system depends on more than just heating or cooling. It’s also about how your home is built, what your energy goals are, and what kind of long-term comfort and efficiency you’re after.
Gas vs. Heat Pump HVAC System: Which is Best For Me?
Whether you’re replacing an aging unit or exploring a more energy-efficient option, choosing between a gas HVAC system and a heat pump comes down to a few key factors: your climate, your energy preferences, and your home’s existing setup.
If you live in a colder region or rely on natural gas already, sticking with or upgrading to a high-efficiency gas furnace might make the most sense. Gas systems are known for their powerful, reliable heat output and often come with lower upfront costs, especially if your ductwork and gas lines are already in place.
For homeowners looking for strong, consistent heating through freezing temperatures, a gas system remains a solid, dependable option.
On the other hand, if you live in a more temperate climate, like here in San Antonio, a heat pump may be a better long-term investment. Heat pumps offer high energy efficiency, lower emissions, and year-round comfort in a single system.
While the upfront cost can be higher, federal tax credits and lower operating costs can make a big difference over time. Plus, with more homeowners making eco-conscious choices, all-electric heat pumps are quickly becoming a future-forward option for residential HVAC.
When it comes to choosing between gas and heat pump HVAC systems, having the proper education on your new system is crucial. This means understanding all that is included in your new replacement.
Knowing what’s included in a full system replacement, whether for a gas or heat pump system, allows you to properly vet a potential company to work with and ensure you receive the proper installation.
Want to learn more about what’s included in a full HVAC system replacement? Check out this article that details 13 crucial components of an HVAC replacement, what they do, and why they are important to the system.
Still Unsure? Work With A Professional You Can Trust!
At Wright Home Services, we’ve been helping San Antonio homeowners choose the right HVAC systems since 1979.
Our licensed technicians specialize in both gas and heat pump systems, and we’re happy to walk you through your options based on your home, your energy goals, and your budget.
Whether you’re ready to make the switch to a heat pump, stick with natural gas, or explore a hybrid system that gives you the best of both, we’ll help you make the Wright choice.
Give us a call today or schedule your in-home consultation with one of our comfort specialists.
Treating People Wright – since 1979!
