What is the difference between a furnace and a heat pump?

A furnace and a heat pump serve the purpose of heating a space, but they operate based on different principles. A furnace generates heat by burning fuel, such as natural gas, propane, or oil. This combustion process produces hot air that is then distributed throughout a home, effectively warming the environment.

On the other hand, a heat pump works by transferring heat rather than generating it. It extracts heat from outside air or the ground and moves that heat indoors. This process can also be reversed, allowing the heat pump to function as an air conditioner in warmer months. The key distinction is that the heat pump is more energy-efficient in moderate climates because it can move heat rather than create it, using less energy in the process.

This understanding highlights the fundamental operational difference between the two systems, illustrating the importance of their energy sources and heating methods.