Understand the basic distinction
A heat pump transfers heat and can provide heating and cooling. A furnace supplies heat; the cooling equipment is a separate part of many home systems. Some designs combine a heat pump with a furnace. The Department of Energy explains these system types and how they work.
Reference: U.S. Department of Energy: Heat Pumps. General guidance; equipment-specific advice requires an assessment.
Ask what happens in colder weather
Request the proposed equipment’s heating capacity at the design conditions used for your home. Ask how backup heat is selected and controlled, and which parts of the existing system would remain. Have the contractor explain that sequence in ordinary language.
Use your own utility information
Ask which electricity and fuel rates were used in any operating-cost comparison. Share a recent utility statement after removing account details. Treat a projection as an estimate with assumptions, not as a guaranteed reduction. If the estimate does not identify the assumed rates and equipment, ask for those inputs.
Include the work around the equipment
Confirm the proposed electrical, duct, control, and installation work. A useful comparison includes all required changes rather than isolating an equipment price. Compare what you are buying using the written-quote checklist.
Keep incentives out of the decision until verified
Do not build the budget around a generic tax-credit claim or an old rebate amount. Ask for the current program, eligible equipment, income or property conditions when applicable, and who verifies eligibility. No incentive or tax savings is guaranteed in this guide.
Bring a focused question to the contractor
“For this home, what are the installation differences, winter heating plan, operating-cost assumptions, and main tradeoffs between your proposed options?” Start at replacement planning and keep the answers with the proposal. No system recommendation is made for an unassessed home.