New York is pushing for electrification in every home, but if you already have a gas furnace in Suffolk County, is it worth switching to a heat pump in the future? Heat pumps are incredibly efficient and provide both heating and cooling in one unit, but they aren’t suited to every home.
Review the pros and cons of both heating options below, and take the next step toward a more comfortable and energy-efficient home with a system that’s right for your family.
The Comparison – Gas vs. Electric Heating
Follow the table to compare gas furnace and heat pump benefits and downsides directly:
|
|
High Efficiency Gas Furnace |
Cold Climate Heat Pump |
|
Technology |
Generates heat by burning natural gas, propane, or fuel oil. |
Fully-electric using a compressor and refrigerant gas to transfer heat. |
|
Cold-Weather Performance |
Consistent with “hot” warmth typical of a forced-air combustion system. Works in any temperature. |
100% capacity at 5°F, depending on the model. Some premium heat pumps like the Lennox SL22KLV are efficient down to -20°F thanks to Electronic Refrigerant Injection. |
|
2025 Refrigerant Standard |
Doesn’t use any refrigerant. |
Modern units use safe R-454B refrigerant, compliant with 2025 regulatory changes. |
|
Efficiency |
Excellent with the right unit. The best gas furnaces reach up to 98% AFUE. |
Excellent. Heat pumps above 21.2 SEER2 can heat and cool your home affordably. |
|
Summer Cooling |
Not available. Needs a separate AC unit with added maintenance. |
Yes, a cold climate heat pump works as an air conditioner in summer. |
|
Average Lifespan |
15 to 20 years. Requires yearly maintenance. |
10 – 15 years. Requires maintenance every six months if used year-round. |
|
Safety Considerations |
Requires venting and carbon monoxide (CO) monitoring. Propane and fuel oil systems require fuel storage. |
No combustion, no risk of carbon monoxide. The safest option. |
|
Cost |
Average $4,000 to $10,000 depending on size and design. |
Average $12,000 to $22,000 depending on size and design (for a whole-home unit). |
The comparison shows that the difference isn’t as simple as one being outright better than the other. Gas is cheaper to install, but less safe. Fuel costs can vary significantly with market fluctuations. Electric heating with a heat pump is more expensive upfront, but you will only need one unit for heating and cooling.
The Question of Switching – is Electric Heating Better if You Already Have Gas?
Electric heating may still be better than gas in the right circumstances, especially if you need to upgrade your air conditioner and your furnace.
- Instead of investing in a new furnace and AC, you can simply replace everything with a single high-efficiency whole-home heat pump.
- Maintenance will be simpler with visits every 6 months in Spring and Fall.
- The best heat pumps provide furnace-like warmth during winter.
The Bottom Line – You Need Professional Expertise for the Final Details When Deciding Between Gas and Electric Heating
Every home is different, and the choice between a gas furnace and a cold-weather heat pump depends on your situation. If your gas furnace is near its replacement age, then it’s the best time to consider an electric alternative. A licensed HVAC contractor in Suffolk County will help you evaluate specific solutions within your budget.
- Soundview HVAC is a trusted heating and cooling specialist that is highly rated in Suffolk County.
- We will perform a detailed load calculation to consider factors like your home’s design, construction materials, size, layout, and insulation value. This will help us definitively recommend the ideal solution.
- We offer a range of HVAC systems from leading brands like Rheem, Lennox, and Trane.
Gas furnaces and electric heat pumps have unique pros and cons. Your choice of HVAC contractor makes all the difference in getting the most efficient system for your needs. Call Soundview HVAC at 631-209-1744 to begin your home comfort consultation today.
