What should I consider?
- Your home's configuration and existing equipment.
- Which utilities you have: natural gas, electric or both.
- Cold-weather performance and backup heat.
- Electrical service and any upgrades a heat pump might need.
- Comfort: how steady you want temperatures to feel.
- Equipment efficiency.
- Your own preference.
How does a heat pump handle the cold?
A heat pump moves heat rather than burning fuel, and its heating output drops as the outdoor temperature falls. Systems are designed with that in mind, with backup heat or a dual-fuel setup covering the coldest stretches. See our guide to heat pumps in New Jersey winters for more.
What is dual fuel?
A dual-fuel system pairs an electric heat pump with a gas furnace. The heat pump handles heating in milder weather, and the furnace takes over when it's colder. It's one way to get the benefits of both rather than choosing between them.
Is one simply better?
No. Avoid anyone who tells you one answer is right for every home. Gibson installs gas furnaces, heat pumps, inverter heat pumps and dual-fuel systems, and the recommendation follows the house.
