US Heat Pump Sales Surpass Furnaces, Approaching AC Units

Heat pump sales in the United States have doubled over the past 15 years, with a notable surge in the first quarter of the current year where they outpaced fossil-fuel furnace shipments by 32 percent and narrowly missed surpassing air conditioning unit shipments. In 2024, 46 percent of new housing constructions included a heat pump, a figure nearly matching the 47 percent that opted for forced-air furnaces. Heat pumps operate by extracting warmth from the air, even in cold temperatures, and transferring it indoors, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to gas furnaces. They also function as air conditioners in warmer months, providing year-round comfort.

Kevin Carbonnier, associate director of analytics at the Building Decarbonization Coalition, stated that all trends indicate increased heat pump adoption, not only compared to gas heating but also to traditional single-function air conditioning. He highlighted that heat pumps are not only more efficient and comfortable than furnaces but also offer a two-in-one appliance solution. A significant factor driving this electrification trend is the new housing market, where three-quarters of new apartments are heated electrically. This shift makes it more practical for builders to install electric appliances, including electric stoves, and forgo the expense of piping natural gas into new constructions.

Kristin George Bagdanov, associate director of research at the coalition, commented that building exclusively electric, especially in new constructions, is becoming a common-sense measure due to the increased efficiency of modern electric appliances. This trend suggests a potential tipping point for heat pump adoption in the US market, moving away from traditional fossil fuel-based heating systems towards more sustainable and efficient electric alternatives.