Heating vs Cooling: Where Does the Money Go?
For most U.S. households, heating costs more than cooling on an annual basis — but this varies significantly by climate. In Phoenix or Miami, cooling can dominate. In Minnesota or Maine, heating is the overwhelming cost.
System Efficiency Matters
A gas furnace with 80% AFUE efficiency wastes 20% of the fuel it burns. A modern heat pump can deliver 3x more heat energy than the electricity it consumes, making it the most efficient option in most climates.
Thermostat Settings
The DOE estimates that setting your thermostat back 7–10°F for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% per year on heating and cooling. A smart thermostat automates this and typically pays for itself in under a year.