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Are heat pumps really cheaper to run than standard home heaters?

My parents bought a heat pump furnace for their home to save money. Well they are paying close to $300 a mo. Also the damn thing only blows enough warm air to keep the temp stable, and it runs all day long. We keep out home temp set at 68 degrees in the winter. So what are your opinions in heat pumps. Experienced please answer.

Public Comments

1. They work great in warmer climates, once it gets down to about 40 F they are no longer efficient. There should be some other backup for cold weather, either electric, gas, wood, pellets,coal or oil if the temp drops below 40 F often. If you are in a northern climate don't expect the heat pump to work very well except in the spring and fall. During the cold part of the winter you should have some alternative. My parents had a a heat pump system in upstate NY. It provided heat on cool days but when it got cold they used the oil burner. The heat pump also worked as AC during the summer.
2. Almost 30 years ago we had a heat pump in Pennsylvania. It was great with air conditioning. But the heat was as you described, especially in extreme cold. We've never had one since, even now in North Carolina. Further south, maybe I would try it again.
3. Like any other mechanical device, you need to learn how to properly use it, it's perks and limitations. Below 35 degrees, go to EMERGENCY HEAT and let the heat pump set when it is least effective. Above 35 degrees go back to normal heat mode and let the heat pump save you money.
4. if its installed correctly they work great farther north you go they dont work as well first do they have a two stage t-stat and does it have the right charge of refrigerant my bills 150 month but i live in TEXAS any system reflects on the installer some times you need a follow up visit by them gl
5. MY heatpump works great and its not at all bad on my power bill,,,,,the deal is you have to have good insulation,,,,i live in WV and have had my heatpump since 2003..
6. my mother-in-law has one and lives in west texas in the summer it fine if you dont use the clothes dryer, and in the winter if it cold for 2 or 3 days its not worth a hoot. there is only so much heat in something when it 35 degrees out side the lower the temp. goes the less heat ,....... i would have a back up depends on were you live on what you get oil,wood, gas and so on good luck