The Difference Between HVAC Units and Furnaces

Though you may have heard people use HVAC units and furnaces interchangeably, the two have some key differences. While furnaces are typically part of the overall HVAC system, there are also stand-alone models.

If this makes deciding which heating system to buy for your home sound like a complex task, don’t worry! We’re here to help you navigate these differences so you can make an informed decision. There are also some crucial factors to keep in mind when choosing between an HVAC unit and a furnace.

What Is an HVAC Unit?

HVAC is an acronym for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. An HVAC unit is a complete system that heats and cools your home to create a comfortable year-round environment, improve indoor air quality and control the humidity.

While there are many different types of models, HVAC units typically feature the following three components:

• Air conditioners (AC): This is the cooling component you typically use during the summer. When you turn on the AC, it transforms warm air from outside into cool air before moving it through the HVAC system out into the vents in the various rooms of your house.
• Furnace: This is the heating component you use during the winter. As all three parts work together as one system, you use the same thermostat for the furnace and the AC. Once you switch the thermostat to heat, the furnace turns on, produces heat through an element and warms the rooms in your home via the vents.
• Ventilation: This refers to the system’s network of ducts and vents. Before passing through the ducting and out of the vents, the air first moves through a filter that removes contaminants and particles, helping clean the air.

What Is a Furnace in a House?

While a furnace is part of the HVAC system, you also get stand-alone units with one main function — creating and delivering heat to your home. As a result, you’d likely only use it during the colder months.

Depending on the house, furnaces may be hidden in a utility closet, attic or basement. These appliances draw in cold air and convert it to warm air before distributing it through your home with ducts. Although they serve the same purpose, there are many different types of furnaces. These can be categorized by their fuel source and staging.

Fuel Sources

Compared to heat pumps, furnaces don’t simply transfer heat — they burn fuel to generate it. There are a variety of fuels that can power furnaces:

• Natural gas: Furnaces using natural gas need access to supply lines. Despite this potential limitation, 61% of American households use this fuel, making it a popular energy source for furnaces. Gas-powered units are also cost-effective and can quickly heat your home.
• Propane: For those whose homes don’t have access to gas utility lines, propane furnaces are a great alternative as they work similarly. However, you’d need to purchase or rent propane tanks. Furnaces using this fuel may also be less efficient than oil- or gas-powered models but can produce more heat electric units.
• Oil: These units generate warmth with nonflammable, nonexplosive heating oil — they may be safer than propane and natural gas models. Low- and zero-emission heating oils are also becoming an increasingly common offering among suppliers. However, oil furnaces may require more frequent cleaning, maintenance and repairs than other models.
• Electricity: As electric units don’t create emissions when in use, they don’t directly impact the environment. Because of this, they’re an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a more eco-friendly way to heat their homes. Similar to a gas furnace, electricity is supplied to your home via a utility line. You won’t need to have fuel delivered, unlike oil and propane.

Staging

Some furnaces are much louder than others and can run much longer, which is usually a result of their staging — how many capacity settings a particular model has. There are three types of staging:

• Single-stage: These units have only one setting, meaning that when the furnace is on, it operates at full capacity.
• Two-stage: These models have two settings. Two-stage furnaces can either function at 100% or at a lower setting.
• Variable-speed or modulating: These furnaces can have multiple settings — some may only have five, while others can have up to a hundred. All settings range from varying lower settings to full capacity.

Key Differences Between Furnaces and HVAC Units

The main difference between furnaces and HVAC units is their functionality. HVAC units are multifunctional, so they’re an all-in-one climate control solution for all seasons. Furnaces are designed to only offer heat, with no ventilation or cooling capabilities. If you want a cooling component for the summer, you’d need to buy a separate AC system.

Another way in which HVAC units and furnaces differ is in their space and installation requirements. As furnaces tend to be smaller, they can be installed in more compact spaces — as mentioned, you’ll usually find them in closets, basements or attics. They need ducts to move the heated air throughout your home. HVAC units are typically bigger, meaning they need more room for installation.

There is also a difference in cost between the two. Furnaces are usually more affordable to buy and install, as they only consist of one system. While HVAC systems tend to be pricier, their more comprehensive functionality could save money by eliminating the need to buy an additional cooling appliance.

Considerations for Choosing Between an HVAC Unit and a Furnace

We understand that choosing between an HVAC system and a furnace is a big decision. After all, you’re investing in the comfort of your home, and the right solution will offer many years of warmth.

Here’s what to keep in mind to help you make a choice suited to your needs:

• Climate: What is the weather like where you live? An HVAC unit is ideal if you have both icy winters and sweltering summers. A furnace might be best if you live in a region that experiences lower temperatures throughout the year.
• Sustainability: Knowing how your heating and cooling system affects the planet is a good move — small changes can help us be more sustainable. Think about how energy-efficient the different systems are. Modern HVAC units can be a great choice, as higher-efficiency appliances can reduce energy consumption by 50%.
• Space: Assess the available space for installation. If you have limited space, a furnace is likely more suitable.
• Cost: Your budget is a crucial factor. But it’s important to remember that although higher-efficiency models come with a heftier price tag, they can offer long-term savings. For example, by opting for an energy-efficient furnace, you may be eligible for tax credits up to 30% of the cost. Additionally, high-efficiency HVAC units may help you lower your energy bills.

If you’re still unsure which system to choose, getting advice from a professional can give you the clarity you need. The HB Home Service Team is happy to help.

The Maintenance of Furnaces vs. HVAC Units

As the maintenance requirements can vary between HVAC units and furnaces, these differences should also factor into your decision.

Maintaining a furnace will typically involve tasks that focus on the heating components, such as replacing the element or heat exchange or examining and cleaning the burner to help ensure the appliance’s safe operation.

As HVAC units have multiple systems, they need more extensive maintenance. In addition to the furnace, the AC and ventilation network also require regular upkeep and inspections. For example, the ducts may need to be fixed or replaced, and the air filter might need to be cleaned or changed.

Whether you settle on an HVAC unit or a furnace, professional maintenance is a must. Even if you perform your own upkeep and inspections, you should schedule a service with an expert, such as the HB Home Service Team, before winter arrives. Frequent maintenance may extend the lifespan of your appliances by several years. Qualified and skilled technicians will meticulously inspect and clean all components of your HVAC system or furnace. If your technician notices an issue, they will repair it before it escalates.

We Are Here for Your All Your Maintenance Needs

The HB Home Service Team is a proudly family-run business that has been offering trustworthy heating and cooling services for homes in Central Pennsylvania since 1974. Whether you want help maintaining and extending the lifespan of your HVAC unit or furnace or deciding which appliance is best, we are here for your needs.

We offer round-the-clock services seven days a week, including installations, maintenance, upgrades and repairs. With our insured and licensed technicians who have undergone thorough training, you have the peace of mind that your appliances are in good hands. To schedule a service for your HVAC unit or furnace or learn more about how we can help, contact us today!