Final answer:
The most common complaint when switching from gas heating to a heat pump is the cost-related issues due to higher electricity bills and the longer time required to recuperate the higher initial investment, coupled with reduced efficiency at lower temperatures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common complaint from customers changing from gas heat to a heat pump is typically related to the cost and efficiency at lower temperatures. Although heat pumps can be more economical by providing more heat transfer (Qh) compared to the work (W) put into them, the economical feasibility can be limited, particularly because the electrical energy required to operate them usually costs more per joule than burning fuels such as natural gas. Additionally, heat pumps have a higher initial cost compared to traditional furnaces, requiring a longer time to recover the investment. They are also less effective as the outside temperature decreases, becoming less efficient below about -10 °C.
Specifically, customers might complain about the higher electricity bills, especially if they are in a region where electricity costs are high or if they have previously enjoyed low costs associated with natural gas heating. Moreover, the cost to recuperate from the initial installation of a heat pump, which may be around $5,000, could be a financial strain for some customers. For instance, with a heat pump operating at a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 3, while it means spending one-third of the energy for a certain thermal benefit compared to direct electrical heating, the payback period may be long depending on the daily energy savings.