Are EV’s Actually Better?

Building an EV has a higher environmental impact than building a gas car due to the energy and mining of materials that go into the battery pack. The EV will generally make up this ‘carbon debt’ over its life - but how fast depends on the carbon intensity of the local electrical grid.

Getting from A to B

Burning fossil fuels requires oxygen. Since there’s plenty of oxygen in the atmosphere, you don’t need to bring it with you (rockets carry liquid oxygen for burning their fuel due to the whole vacuum of space thing). This is great because you only have to carry half the chemical reaction. But it also means that it can be hard to visualize just how much CO2 you produce when driving. If your car has a 60L gas tank - what does that mean for CO2 production?

Well, on average burning 1L of gasoline producers about 2.8kg of CO2 - so a 60L tank of gas produces 168kg (

Why Use This Tool?

  • Personalized Insights: Get results tailored to your home and local conditions.

  • Compare Emissions: See how your current furnace stacks up against a heat pump.

  • Make Informed Choices: Understand the potential environmental and efficiency benefits before making the switch.

Take the first step toward a more energy-efficient future. Try it now!

At CWM, Transparency Comes First

We don’t believe in hype or oversimplifications. Instead, we focus on transparency and backing up our insights with solid data. Below, we provide a clear explanation of the sources and information that power this tool.

How We Use Data

The Coefficient of Performance (COP) data is derived from a representative cross-section of real-world examples for each type of heat source. While the data is presented as a straightforward line for simplicity, it’s important to remember that performance exists on a spectrum.

Several factors can influence a heat pump’s performance, including:

  • Variations in models and vendors.

  • Differences in air handling units and ducting in your home.

  • Environmental factors like whether the unit is installed in a sunny or shaded location.

Got Feedback? Let’s Talk!

We strive for accuracy, but no system is perfect. If you think we’ve missed the mark or have suggestions for improvement, we’d love to hear from you. We’re passionate about the details and always eager to dive deeper into the data.

Let us know how we can make this tool even better!

Disclaimer

This tool is designed to provide general insights into the potential differences in CO₂ emissions between various heat sources. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice or decision-making.

Important Notes:

  • No Design or Operational Guidance: This tool does not provide recommendations or specifications for the design, installation, or operation of any heating systems.

  • Consult the Experts: If you are considering a heat pump or any other heat source for your home, consult a qualified HVAC professional with experience in heat pump systems. A knowledgeable technician can provide tailored advice and ensure proper installation.

  • Installation Matters: The quality of installation plays a significant role in system performance and customer satisfaction. For the best results, always work with reputable and experienced professionals.

By using this tool, you acknowledge that all decisions regarding heat source selection and installation are your responsibility and should be made with the assistance of qualified professionals.