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I currently have a propane (or oil or gas) furnace and I am thinking about changing to a Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP). What should I be aware of?

April 26, 2017changing Currently furnace Gas Geothermal heat Oil propane pump thinking

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I currently have a propane (or oil or gas) furnace and I am thinking about changing to a Geothermal Heat Pump (GHP). What should I be aware of?

1 Answer

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First of all, there will be a major difference in the air temperature from the supply registers. Heat pumps, regardless of the type, produce lower temperature air than fossil fuel furnaces. Air-source heat pumps produce the coolest air 90°F (32°C）to 95°F (35°C). GHPs produce air of 95°F (35°C) to 103°F (40°C), a small but very noticeable improvement. Another issue is the ductwork. If the house was not originally equipped for air conditioning, the ductwork may be undersized for the heat pump. Both central air conditioning and heat pumps require more air flow than fossil fuel furnaces. However, many heating systems are oversized, particularly if your home is well insulated. It may convert to a smaller-capacity heat pump that is matched to your existing ductwork. Be sure to have your contractor to evaluate this issue.