Written by Michael Haines  11/14/2023  From Natural Gas Furnaces to Electric Heat Pumps, heating across America is different from state to state. 

Exploring America's Preferred Heating Systems with State-by-State Analysis

Home heating across the United States shows diverse preferences, with some states leaning more towards certain types of systems due to climate and energy costs. According to the latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), here's how different states stack up in their choice of heating systems.

Statewide Heating Preferences

The United States, with its vast and varied climate, showcases a diverse array of preferred heating systems from state to state. Let's delve into how different regions across the country choose their heating methods based on the latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

Northeastern States A Mix of Gas and Oil Heating

In the Northeast, states like Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont primarily use heating oil, reflecting the region's long-standing reliance on this fuel type. Natural gas furnaces are also popular in states like New York, New Jersey, and Maryland, offering a balance of efficiency and reliability in these areas where winters can be harsh.

Southern Comfort Electric Heat Pumps Lead the Way

Down South, states like Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas predominantly rely on electric heat pumps. This preference is largely due to the milder winters and the efficiency of heat pumps in both heating and cooling, which is ideal for the region's hot and humid summers.

Midwest Natural Gas Furnaces Dominate

In the Midwest, states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wisconsin primarily use natural gas furnaces. The choice of natural gas in these states is driven by its availability and the need for a reliable heating source during the region's cold, snowy winters.

Western States A Blend of Electric and Gas Solutions

Out West, the story is a bit more varied. States like Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oregon show a strong preference for electric heat pumps, suitable for their generally milder climate and focus on energy efficiency. Meanwhile, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming lean towards natural gas furnaces, likely due to the colder temperatures and perhaps more rural areas where natural gas is a more viable option.

Unique Alaskan and Hawaiian Preferences

Alaska, with its extreme cold, relies heavily on oil furnaces, while Hawaii's tropical climate makes electric heat pumps the logical choice, emphasizing cooling rather than heating.

This data reveals that while natural gas furnaces dominate as the most common heating system in the U.S., electric heat pumps have a strong presence in many states, particularly those with milder climates. The diversity in heating systems across the states reflects a mix of local climate conditions, energy availability, and consumer preferences. Whether it's the warmth of a gas furnace or the versatile efficiency of an electric heat pump, Americans have tailored their heating solutions to best suit their regional needs and lifestyles.

From the heating oil-dominated Northeast to the electric heat pump-favored South, and from the natural gas-reliant Midwest to the diverse West, the United States presents a rich tapestry of heating preferences. These choices reflect not just climatic conditions but also regional energy resources and consumer priorities. It's fascinating how each state has adapted its heating solutions to meet its specific environmental and lifestyle needs.

Do you live in one of these states and use a different type of furnace than what is listed? We'd love to hear from you in the comments. Share how you keep your home comfortable and toasty, and let's explore the diverse ways Americans stay warm!