Colorado winters can be unpredictable, swinging from crisp autumn days to sudden deep freezes. A reliable heating system isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of a heat pump versus a furnace, the right choice comes down to efficiency, performance, and long-term costs.
At Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we’ve spent over two decades helping homeowners in Aurora and Greater Denver find the best heating solutions for their homes. Here’s what you need to know about heat pumps and furnaces to make the smartest call for your home’s heating needs.
Understanding Heat Pumps and Furnaces
Both heat pumps and furnaces provide home heating, but they work in different ways and offer unique advantages.
How Heat Pumps Work
Instead of generating heat, a heat pump moves it from one place to another. In winter, it pulls warmth from the outside air—even in cold temperatures—and transfers it indoors. In summer, the process reverses, drawing heat from inside the home and releasing it outdoors to provide cooling. Because of this dual function, a heat pump provides an efficient year-round solution.
How Furnaces Work
A furnace creates heat by burning natural gas or using electricity. The heated air then circulates through ducts to warm the home. Unlike a heat pump, a furnace is built solely for heating, making it a reliable choice in colder climates where warm air is needed consistently.
Colorado’s Climate Impact on Heating Choices
Colorado’s climate comes with challenges for heating systems, including wide-ranging temperatures and seasonal extremes.
Challenges of Colorado’s Cold Winters
- Sudden temperature drops: Warm days can turn frigid overnight, requiring a heating system that adapts quickly.
- Regional differences: The Front Range, including Denver and Aurora, sees relatively mild winters, while areas east of the city frequently experience extended periods of freezing temperatures.
Performance of Heat Pumps in Cold Weather
- Better cold-weather efficiency: Technology improvements have made modern heat pumps more effective in lower temperatures.
- Backup heat source may be needed: In extreme cold, an additional heat source, like electric resistance heating or a backup furnace, might be required to maintain comfort indoors.
Furnace Reliability in Extreme Temperatures
- Steady, powerful heating: A gas furnace provides consistent warmth in all conditions, regardless of how cold it gets outside.
- No backup required: Unlike heat pumps, a furnace doesn’t need supplemental heating to perform well in freezing weather.
Energy Efficiency Comparison
Efficiency affects both heating costs and overall system performance.
Heat Pump Efficiency
- Transfers heat instead of generating it: Because of this process, a heat pump is highly efficient in moderate temperatures.
- Lower operating costs in mild weather: During fall and spring, heat pumps typically cost less to run than gas furnaces.
Furnace Efficiency
- High AFUE ratings: Modern gas furnaces can reach up to 98% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), meaning nearly all the fuel used is converted into heat.
- Strong performance during peak heating demands: Furnaces provide powerful, reliable heating even in the coldest months.
Impact on Energy Bills
- Heat pumps: Electricity costs can rise in winter, especially when backup heating kicks in.
- Furnaces: Natural gas remains a cost-effective heating fuel in Colorado, helping keep winter energy bills manageable.
Installation and Operating Costs
Upfront costs and long-term expenses both play a role when choosing a heating system.
Upfront Costs
- Heat pumps: Higher installation costs due to their ability to provide both heating and cooling.
- Furnaces: Lower upfront costs, but homes that need cooling require a separate air conditioning system.
Operating Expenses
- Heat pumps rely on electricity: While efficient, heat pumps can lead to higher electricity bills in winter.
- Furnaces run on natural gas: In Colorado, gas remains a more affordable heating fuel, making furnaces a cost-effective long-term option.
Long-Term Savings
- Maintenance needs: Since heat pumps run year-round, they typically require more maintenance than furnaces.
- Return on investment: Heat pumps save energy in mild weather, but gas furnaces often provide better value in colder regions.
Access to Natural Gas and Electricity
Utility availability influences heating system options for many homeowners.
Utility Availability Across Greater Denver
- Natural gas access varies: Some neighborhoods lack gas lines, making an all-electric heat pump the only choice.
- Electric-only homes: A heat pump can be a practical solution for homes without a gas connection.
Impact on Heating Choices
- Heat pumps: A great all-electric option for homes without access to gas.
- Furnaces: Require a gas line, which isn’t available everywhere.
Infrastructure Considerations
- Possible utility upgrades: Installing a gas line or upgrading an electrical system can increase installation costs.
The Role of Dual Fuel Systems
A dual fuel heating system combines a heat pump and a gas furnace to improve efficiency and performance.
What Are Dual Fuel Systems?
- Hybrid heating approach: Uses a heat pump when temperatures are moderate and automatically switches to a furnace when colder weather sets in.
Benefits in Colorado’s Climate
- Efficient operation in mild weather: A heat pump works well in fall and spring.
- Reliable warmth in freezing temperatures: A furnace ensures steady heating when outdoor temperatures drop significantly.
Energy and Cost Efficiency
- Lower energy bills: The system adjusts based on outdoor conditions, preventing unnecessary energy use.
- Longer equipment lifespan: Alternating between systems helps reduce wear and tear.
Environmental Impact
Heating systems affect both energy consumption and a home’s carbon footprint.
Emissions from Furnaces
- Burning natural gas produces emissions: This contributes to air pollution and affects sustainability efforts.
Heat Pumps and Renewable Energy
- Cleaner energy option: Heat pumps can be powered by renewable electricity, reducing environmental impact.
Sustainability Considerations
- Long-term environmental benefits: When paired with clean energy, heat pumps significantly lower household emissions.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
The best heating system depends on factors like home size, insulation, and energy efficiency goals.
Assessing Home Needs
- Larger homes may need a furnace: Homes with poor insulation or multiple stories often require a furnace for consistent heating.
- Existing HVAC system matters: If a home already has central air conditioning, a furnace might be the more practical option.
Professional Evaluation
- Expert guidance helps: A licensed HVAC professional can assess heating needs and recommend the best system.
Customized Solutions
- Tailored recommendations: A professional consultation ensures the chosen system fits budget, energy efficiency goals, and comfort preferences.
One Call for Reliable Heating in Denver—Done!
Since 1999, Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric has been the trusted name for home heating solutions in Aurora and Greater Denver. Whether you need a heat pump, furnace, or dual fuel system, our experienced technicians provide expert recommendations and top-quality service to keep your home warm all winter.
- Colorado-Ready Heating Solutions – We specialize in high-efficiency systems designed to handle Denver’s unpredictable winters.
- Full-Service Heating Experts – From installation to repairs and maintenance, our licensed pros keep your system running at its best.
- Your Comfort, Our Priority – With upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and a satisfaction guarantee, you can trust Done! to get the job done right.
Call Done! Today
Choosing between a heat pump and a furnace? Let Done! help you find the best heating solution for your home. Call (833) 539-9153 or schedule online today.
Ask about the 1st Service Club for exclusive maintenance benefits and special discounts.
