Propane Vs. Electric Heat Pump
Choosing a heating system, whether you're upgrading or installing a new one, depends upon several factors. Climate, source of fuel, ecological impact and energy-efficiency all play a role in your decision. Two popular options are propane heat and electric heat pumps. Both systems have their pros and cons, so weigh both and then decide according to your heating needs and priorities. Does this Spark an idea?
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Fuel Source and Cost
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Propane is a non-renewable product made from both crude oil and natural gas. It is clean-burning, non-toxic and available almost everywhere. Though historically less expensive than electricity, the price of propane fluctuates from year to year, season to season and by region. Electricity, on the other hand, is a secondary energy source generated from both renewable and non-renewable sources such as coal, natural gas, nuclear and solar energy. Its impact on the environment is related to the type of energy it is derived from. Due to its source diversity, however, the price of electricity tends to fluctuate less than propane, though historically, electricity tends to be more expensive.
Propane Heating Systems
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A variety of propane heating systems are available, the most popular of which is the central furnace. This system uses air heated via a heat exchanger and then forced through ducts throughout the home. Though central furnace systems of the past had problems with fuel-efficiency, modern systems incorporate such energy savers as burners that turn off when not in use and the elimination of standing pilot lights. Other propane systems include wall furnaces and combination heaters.
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Heat Pump Systems
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Electric air-source heat pumps work on an air-exchange system, pulling warm air from outside and transferring it into your home and vice-versa. Other electric heat pump systems include geothermal systems and mini-split systems. Geothermal systems work much like air-exchange systems, but use the more stable temperatures from within the ground for heat exchange. Mini-split systems are used primarily for cooling, creating whole-house temperature control without the need for ducts.
Climate Considerations
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Propane furnaces heat air warm enough for climates ranging from mild to severe. Able to heat air consistently at up to 120 degrees F., propane heating systems can keep a home comfortably warm, even in cold winter climates. Electric air-source heat pumps, on the other hand, heat air to approximately 96 degrees F. and are best suited for mild to moderate climates. When outdoor temperatures drop below 40 degrees F., a back-up system must kick in, heating air with much less efficiency. Geothermal heat pumps do considerably better in colder climates than air-source pumps, but depend upon available land and landscape for installation.
Energy Efficiency
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Electric heat pumps are designed to produce more energy than they use, which makes them the most energy efficient of all heating options. Of course, if you're using an air-source heat pump in a colder climate, this is only true if temperatures remain above 40 degrees F. Modern propane furnaces offer much better energy efficiency than older systems. The annual fuel utilization efficiency of today's propane furnaces ranges between 70 and 96 percent. The most energy efficient are condensing models, which recapture heat lost in escaping water vapor.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of woodley wonderworks
