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Toronto homeowners often ask: should I stick with a natural gas furnace or switch to a modern heat pump? Both can handle Ontario’s cold winters, but they differ in cost, efficiency, and environmental impact. Here’s the complete comparison from Temperature Care to help you make the best choice.
How Do They Work?
Natural Gas Furnace:
- Burns natural gas to create heat
- Warm air is distributed through ducts
- Provides fast, powerful heating during extreme cold
Heat Pump:
- Transfers heat from outside to inside (reverses for cooling in summer)
- Runs on electricity—no fuel combustion required
- Delivers year-round comfort with heating and cooling
Learn more: ENERGY STAR – Heat Pumps vs Gas Furnaces
Efficiency & Operating Cost
| Feature | Heat Pump | Natural Gas Furnace |
|---|---|---|
| Heating & Cooling | Yes (dual system) | Heating only |
| Efficiency | 200–350% (COP 2–3.5) | 80–98% AFUE (modern models) |
| Fuel/Energy Source | Electricity | Natural gas |
| Operating Cost | Lower (hydro-based) | Moderate (depends on gas prices) |
| Rebates | Generous (see below) | Limited |
- Heat pumps can cut heating bills significantly, especially if replacing electric, oil, or propane heating.
- Furnaces are cost-effective where natural gas rates are low but don’t offer cooling.
Compare: Clean Energy Canada – Heat Pump Affordability
Comfort & Air Quality
- Heat pumps: Provide steady, even heating, filter the air, and manage humidity.
- Gas furnaces: Deliver fast heat but can cause dry air and rely on combustion.
Environmental Impact
- Heat pumps: Ultra-low emissions, especially in Ontario where electricity is mostly clean.
- Gas furnaces: Burn fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gases.
US DOE: Heating System Comparisons
Installation & Rebates
- Heat pumps:
- Professional installation (ducted or ductless)
- Eligible for significant rebates:
- Gas furnaces:
- Common in Toronto homes with existing ducts
- Limited rebates available for replacement units
See Temperature Care’s installation services
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose a heat pump if you want year-round comfort, rebates, and reduced emissions.
- Stick with a gas furnace if you already have one and natural gas prices remain affordable.
- Some homeowners install dual fuel systems: a heat pump plus gas furnace for backup in extreme cold.
Why Trust Temperature Care?
- Toronto’s specialists in both heat pumps and furnaces
- Honest, personalized advice
- Full rebate support and professional installation
Contact Us for Expert Advice
📞 905-780-3262
Book your free consultation online
External Resources
- Efficiency Canada – Heat Pump Resources
- Toronto Hydro – Save on Energy
- US DOE – Heat Pump vs Furnace
