Include a heat pump option

Keep the indoor plan in the comparison

A heat pump can replace the cooling-only outdoor unit and add electric heating. A gas furnace can remain as the second heat source in a dual-fuel arrangement. The proposal still needs a compatible indoor coil, blower, controls and ducts.

How two heat sources are controlled

The thermostat or system controller calls for heat and coordinates the available stages. The heat pump supplies electric heating; the furnace supplies gas heat when the configured control logic calls for it. Balance point, capacity and control settings are design inputs for the proposed equipment and house, not a universal outdoor-temperature rule.

Compare complete alternatives

Put a furnace-plus-AC proposal beside a furnace-plus-heat-pump proposal for the same house. Compare all model numbers, electrical work, controls, indoor coil, refrigerant work, startup and applicable incentives. Confirm eligibility from the current program and exact equipment rather than assuming every heat pump receives the same discount.

Try the controls before the crew leaves

Ask the installer to show you heating, cooling and backup-heat modes on your thermostat. Keep the filter size, maintenance instructions, service contact, equipment models and startup results together.

Send the proposed combinations for review.