Is It Cheaper to Run AC or a Heat Pump?

Everyone wants to keep their energy costs low. But dealing with hot weather and trying to have things cool and comfortable inside isn’t always easy on your budget! Energy bills can really jump when cooling systems are running constantly, and trying to decide between cheap air conditioners and affordable heat pumps isn’t always clear-cut for homeowners looking to lower their bills and save on their HVAC equipment. Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each solution!

Is a Heat Pump System Cheaper to Run Than a Traditional Air Conditioning System?

When looking at the heat pump systems vs air conditioners efficiency ratings, the heat pumps usually win out because they work to transfer heat. This tends to be a more energy-efficient process compared to AC units, which have to generate cool air by using refrigeration cycles and electrical resistance. Consequently, your heat pump vs AC monthly cost will often have the heat pump costs lower, especially in regions with mild winters.

Of course, the efficiency of both systems also depends on the model and age of the units. Your monthly cost of a heat pump vs. AC can differ greatly when you’re talking about new models vs. older units. If you have an older heat pump with lower efficiency, then looking into a brand-new air conditioner might give you better energy efficiency just because of the newer technology—not just because of the type of system itself.

You also have to consider the size of the space you’re trying to cool. Typically, comparing discount ac heat pump vs air conditioner efficiency will show the heat pump being more effective. For smaller homes, a single heat pump might be all you need to stay comfortable. But if you’re struggling to maintain lower indoor temperatures with an existing heat pump, then opting for a large AC unit might end up being the more affordable solution. You don’t want to over-work either type of system. Determining the costs on a month-to-month basis depends on how well your unit is sized for your property, too.

Does It Cost More to Heat or Cool a House with a Heat Pump?

Because heat pumps can efficiently manage both heating and cooling, it’s common to wonder how much it costs to run a heat pump per month throughout the year. It’s not exactly a simple question of whether it will cost more to heat or cool a house with a heat pump vs an AC system, but rather, how well can your heat pump stand up to major temperatures outside. In general, running a heat pump vs an AC and gas furnace combo will be a more cost-effective heating and cooling system in moderate climates. That’s thanks to its efficient heat transfer process. But that doesn’t mean your energy bills will be the same month-to-month.

The seasonal variations play a crucial role in figuring out how much does it cost to run a heat pump per month. For example, during the high heat of summer, cooling with a heat pump will cost more than the milder spring days. The same goes for snowy weather vs cool autumn nights. Extreme weather demands more from our heating and cooling systems, whether that’s a heat pump vs AC and furnace combo. 

While it’s often cheaper to use a heat pump than using a traditional air conditioner, you still need to remember that the system efficiency will be influenced by fluctuations in the weather and how heat pumps work. Your local climate, energy rates, and the efficiency of the specific heat pump model will impact your monthly expenses in their own way. But if you have a newer and more efficient model, then your heat pump should be equally effective at both cooling and heating!

Is It Worth Replacing the AC with a Heat Pump?

When comparing the operational costs of running heat pumps vs central air conditioners, heat pumps often come out ahead in terms of efficiency. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that you can replace your AC with a heat pump and expect to see savings. You still need to weigh the initial investment and installation costs against long-term benefits. The pros and cons of a heat pump vs AC can vary wildly. The right solution will depend on your own home layout, your local climate, and your usage patterns for heating and cooling.

One significant advantage of using a heat pump vs air conditioner is the dual functionality. You get both heating and cooling from a single system. This can result in substantial long-term savings by eliminating the need for separate heating and cooling systems.

Most homeowners need to pair their AC with a furnace to keep them comfortable in winter. But if you’re in a milder climate, the heat pump vs air conditioner efficiency might make more sense. You can just invest in heat pumps, and they’ll do the job of both heating and cooling for you. What’s more, heat pumps have fewer moving parts compared to traditional HVAC systems, which can reduce maintenance costs over time.

Even still, the debate on the pros and cons of heat pump vs AC continues when you look at the initial investment. When you already have an AC system in place, switching to a heat pump vs air conditioner can be a major investment, considering the cost of the unit and installation. But if you’re located in a moderate climate, the long-term savings potential might justify the costs.

When you know where to shop for savings, you might also be able to get a good deal on your new heat pump. From there, you might even do the installation yourself! That way, you’re not just keeping the initial investment low, but you could end up with better energy efficiency year-round, too, with extra money in your pocket for more important things!

What Is the Downside of a Heat Pump?

While heat pumps offer many benefits, they also have some downsides worth considering. One significant limitation is their performance in extreme temperatures. In very cold climates, heat pumps can struggle to provide sufficient heating. Are snowstorms common in your area? That might require a backup heating system, which can increase costs. Or what about heat advisories? Those weather extremes can be hard for smaller heat pumps to handle. This raises the question: does a heat pump cool as well as an air conditioner?

In hot climates, some may find that an air conditioner cools more efficiently and quickly, adding to the heat pump vs air conditioner debate. But answering whether a heat pump cools as well as an air conditioner will always relate back to your climate. If you’re looking for speed or have a larger home, then going with an air conditioner can outperform heat pumps. The heat pumps vs air conditioner debate may not be easy, but when you know what your priorities are, then you can start moving toward the right decision. What’s more, when you have a reliable and affordable HVAC supplier, you can get any job done while keeping more money in your pocket!

Keep Cool and Save More with Surplus City!

At Surplus City, we understand that every dollar counts, and we're proud to be the go-to resource for DIY homeowners and HVAC technicians worldwide. Whether you're weighing the pros and cons of a heat pump vs. an air conditioner or trying to determine if a heat pump cools as well as an air conditioner, Surplus City can help you find affordable solutions. Please don’t ever hesitate to give us a call to talk through your project: (765) 482-7000.

We offer a wide range of cheap air conditioners and HVAC repair parts for all types of heating and cooling projects. Whether you decide to fix up your AC, install a heat pump, or upgrade to a brand-new system for your entire home, browse our inventory and discover how much you can save on the HVAC brands you know and trust. We're here to help!