If you live in Calgary, your heating system isn’t just about comfort, but about survival. With temperatures that can swing from chinook thaws to deep freezes, homeowners are asking a new question: Should I stick with a gas furnace, or is it time to switch to a heat pump?
The answer depends on how you balance cost, comfort, and long-term efficiency. Both systems have their strengths, but Calgary’s extreme winters make it important to understand how each performs before you make your decision. Let’s break it down.
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Understanding Calgary’s Heating Needs
Calgary’s weather puts every heating system to the test. We average more than 200 days of heating per year, with temperatures often dipping below –15°C. Add dry air, altitude, and frequent chinooks, and you’ve got one of the most challenging climates in Canada for HVAC systems.
That’s why energy efficiency and reliability are key. Your system needs to perform through long cold spells, recover quickly after warm snaps, and handle fluctuating loads without wasting fuel.
How Furnaces and Heat Pumps Work
A gas furnace burns natural gas to generate heat, which it circulates through your home’s ductwork. It’s fast, powerful, and perfectly suited to sub-zero weather. Most Calgary homes rely on them because natural gas is readily available and affordable.
High-efficiency furnaces today can reach 95–98% efficiency, meaning nearly all the fuel is converted into heat. They’re dependable during cold snaps, but they only heat, so you’ll still need a separate air conditioner in summer.
How a Heat Pump Works Year-Round
A heat pump doesn’t generate heat, it moves it. Even cold air contains heat energy. The system extracts that warmth from outdoors and transfers it inside during winter, then reverses the process to cool your home in summer.
Modern cold-climate heat pumps are nothing like the ones from a decade ago. Thanks to inverter compressors and advanced refrigerants, they can operate efficiently even when it’s –25°C outside, perfect for most Calgary winter days.
Furnace vs Heat Pump in Calgary
| Factor | Furnace | Heat Pump |
| Upfront Cost | Lower ($4,900–$8,000) | Higher ($6,000–$12,000) |
| Efficiency | 95–98% AFUE | 300–400% Energy Efficiency Ratio |
| Operating Cost | Dependent on gas prices | Lower electricity costs during mild temps |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years | 15–20 years |
| Cooling | Needs a separate AC | Built-in cooling |
| Best For | Extreme cold and consistent heat | Moderate temps, eco-efficiency, year-round comfort |
Which Handles the Cold Better?
Let’s be real: when it’s –30°C with a north wind blasting across Nose Hill Park, a gas furnace will deliver stronger, faster heat.
But here’s the thing, those days are rare. For most of the winter, Calgary hovers between –5°C and –15°C, where a cold-climate heat pump works efficiently. In this range, it saves you money by using less energy than a gas furnace would.
For homeowners who want reliability and savings, the dual-fuel setup is the best of both worlds. The heat pump runs efficiently most of the year, and the furnace takes over automatically on the coldest nights. You’ll never be left in the cold, and you’ll save on fuel costs long-term.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Comparison in Calgary
Operating Costs
Heating costs depend on Calgary’s fluctuating gas and electricity rates. On average:
- A high-efficiency gas furnace costs about $900–$1,200 per year to run.
- A cold-climate heat pump costs about $700–$1,000 per year, depending on usage and home insulation.
Heat pumps shine during shoulder seasons (spring and fall), when they can heat efficiently without using gas. Over the year, that can cut heating costs by 20–40%.
Environmental Impact
Heat pumps reduce carbon emissions by relying less on natural gas. For eco-conscious homeowners or those planning for future energy regulations, it’s a cleaner long-term choice.
When a Furnace Still Makes Sense
- You already have a newer, high-efficiency unit.
- Your home’s electrical panel can’t support a heat pump.
- You live in an older house that struggles to retain heat.
FAQs Calgary Homeowners Ask About Furnaces and Heat Pumps
Are heat pumps reliable in Calgary’s cold climate?
Yes, cold-climate heat pumps are designed for –25°C operation and perform well for most of the winter.
Is a heat pump cheaper to run than gas?
Usually, yes. Electricity is more efficient for heating in mild to moderate cold, but gas may still be cheaper during extreme cold snaps.
Can I combine my furnace with a heat pump?
Absolutely. A dual-fuel system gives you both comfort and cost savings.
How long do they last?
Both systems typically last 15–20 years with regular maintenance.
What system gives the best overall comfort?
For Calgary homes, a dual-fuel hybrid system provides the perfect mix of efficiency, flexibility, and peace of mind.
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