The short answer
In most of San Diego County, a heat pump is an excellent choice. It cools exactly like an air conditioner and heats by moving warmth indoors instead of burning gas. Our mild winters are where heat pumps are at their most efficient.
How they compare
- Cooling: a heat pump and a central AC cool the same way.
- Heating: a heat pump runs on electricity; a furnace burns natural gas or propane.
- Equipment: one heat pump system replaces both the AC and the furnace.
- Solar: if you have or plan to add solar, a heat pump lets your panels help heat the house.
- Very cold areas: in higher spots like Alpine or Ramona, we size carefully or pair the heat pump with backup heat.
When a heat pump is a great fit
- Your AC and furnace are both old and due for replacement
- You have solar or are adding it
- You want to move away from gas
- You're adding an ADU or room that needs its own heating and cooling
Rebates
Heat pumps often qualify for utility and state incentives. Programs change during the year, so we check what's currently available for your home when we give you a quote.