Yes, a heat pump can replace a furnace, but the effectiveness of this replacement depends on a variety of factors including the climate, your home's insulation, and your heating and cooling needs. If the conditions are right, a properly designed heat pump system can be installed as a primary heat source. In New Hampshire, most heat pumps are installed as a dual fuel system. What is a dual fuel heating system? A dual fuel system combines the strengths of two different types of heating systems: a heat pump and a furnace (usually gas or oil). This combination aims to optimize energy efficiency and home comfort while minimizing energy costs. Here's how it works:

Heat Pump Operation

Mild Weather: In mild weather, the heat pump operates as the primary heating source. Heat pumps are very efficient at converting electricity into heat when outdoor temperatures are moderate.

Air Conditioning: During the summer, the heat pump can reverse its operation to act as an air conditioner, providing cooling for the home.

Furnace Operation

Cold Weather: When the outdoor temperature drops below a certain point (known as the "balance point"), operating a heat pump becomes less efficient. At this point, the system switches over to the furnace for heating.

Supplementary Heat: The furnace can also act as a supplementary heat source for those exceptionally cold days when the heat pump alone would not be sufficient.

Dual Fuel Control

Smart Thermostat: A dual-fuel system typically includes a control system that intelligently switches between the heat pump and furnace based on the outdoor temperature and the balance point set during installation.

Energy Efficiency: The control system aims to use the most energy-efficient method for current conditions, minimizing energy costs while maintaining home comfort.

Benefits

Efficiency: By leveraging both systems at the temperatures they are most efficient, a dual fuel system can be more cost-effective over time.

Flexibility: The system can adapt to varying weather conditions, ensuring that you're not overly reliant on just one type of fuel or heating method.

Year-Round Comfort: With both heating and cooling capabilities, a dual fuel system provides comprehensive climate control for all seasons.

This kind of setup is ideal for the New England climate which has both hot summers and cold winters, offering a versatile and energy-efficient solution for home heating and cooling.