3 Heat Pump Myths That Need to Die

Abstract

Heat pumps work well even in freezing weather, often cost less than people think, and can save you money over time. Let’s clear up some common myths that might be holding you back from making the switch.

If you’ve heard that heat pumps don’t work in cold weather, you’re not alone. This myth has been around for decades and has stopped many Americans from choosing one of the most efficient heating systems. Heat pump technology has come a long way since the 1980s, but old rumors still stick around. Here are the three biggest misconceptions about heat pumps, along with the facts you should know.

Myth #1: Heat Pumps Don't Work in Cold Weather

This is the most common myth about heat pumps. Many people believe that when temperatures drop below freezing, heat pumps can’t keep your home warm. Some even think they stop working altogether when it’s in the 20s or 30s.

The truth is that modern heat pumps work well in cold weather. Today’s cold-climate models can deliver full heating power at temperatures as low as 0°F, and some operate efficiently at temperatures as low as -15°F. Countries like Finland, Norway, and Sweden have some of the highest rates of heat pump use in the world, and their winters are very harsh. For instance, Finland heats 60% of new homes with heat pumps. This level of adoption speaks volumes about their reliability and efficiency even in severe climates. Regions in the U.S., such as the Northeast and Midwest, experience comparable cold conditions. These areas can significantly benefit from the reliability of modern heat pump systems. They enjoy similar advantages to those seen by their European counterparts.

So why do so many people think heat pumps don’t work in the cold? The first heat pumps from the 1980s and 90s did have trouble below 40°F, but that was a long time ago. Since then, technology has dramatically advanced. It now includes features such as variable-speed compressors and refrigerants that operate at very low temperatures. Still, the myth sticks around.

Myth #2: Heat Pumps Cost More to Run Than Gas Furnaces

Another common belief is that even if heat pumps work in cold weather, they will raise your electricity bill. Many people assume that because electricity costs more than natural gas, using a heat pump must be more expensive.

In reality, heat pumps are so efficient that they usually cost less to run, even if electricity is more expensive than gas. For every unit of electricity a heat pump uses, it can provide three units of heat. This means you could save roughly $50 off a $150 winter heating bill each month. Even at 0°F, a good heat pump still delivers twice as much heat as it consumes. Gas furnaces, by comparison, can only turn about 95% of their fuel into heat at best.

Recent research shows that 65 million American households, even in cold areas, could save money by switching to heat pumps. In 2024, studies found that homeowners saved an average of $300 to $650 per year. Your savings will depend on local electricity and gas prices, but for most people, heat pumps cost less to run.

Myth #3: Heat Pumps Are Too Expensive

Indeed, heat pumps cost more upfront than gas furnaces. A typical heat pump installation costs $8,000 to $16,500, while a gas furnace costs $6,500 to $12,000. At first, that makes a big difference. Yet, over 15 years, a heat pump is more economical. Calculating the net present value helps you see cost-effectiveness. It considers not just the sale price but also ongoing energy savings and the value of time. This way, you may discover that long-term financial benefits can offset the initial price shock.

But keep in mind, you’re comparing two different things. A heat pump replaces both your furnace and your air conditioner. If you add the cost of installing a separate AC unit to your gas furnace, the prices are much closer. Most AC installations add $4,000 to $7,000 to the furnace price, putting you in the same price range as a heat pump.

Also, think about the operating costs. If a heat pump saves you $400 per year on energy bills, it makes up the price difference in a few years. After that, you keep saving. Over a heat pump’s 15 to 20-year lifespan, most homeowners save thousands of dollars. These savings could fund significant life goals, such as a family vacation to your dream destination or a contribution toward a child's college tuition. By choosing a heat pump, you're not making an energy-efficient decision but also investing in future possibilities.

The Bottom Line

Heat pump myths keep coming back, but the facts are clear. Modern heat pumps work well in cold weather, cost less to run than many people think, and aren’t as expensive as the rumors say when you look at long-term savings. If you’ve put off switching because of these myths, now is a good time to take another look. Heat pump technology has improved significantly, and these outdated beliefs shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying lower bills and a more comfortable home.

References:

• https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/bitstream/JRC137131/JRC137131009.pdf
• https://www.bellowsservice.com/differences-between-heat-pump-and-furnace/
• https://www.nrel.gov/news/detail/press/2024/benefits-of-heat-pumps-detailed-in-new-nrel-report
• https://modernize.com/homeowner-resources/hvac/heat-pump-vs-furnace
• https://backend.production.deepblue-documents.lib.umich.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/7c2c96f7-e4e3-466b-aaaf-840195ba3239/content

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