We are in Western North Carolina. House was built in the 1950's, never had a furnace put in. We are doing some remodeling and would like an oil furnace. We would also like the convenience of central air in the summer. Our winter last year was very cold with plenty of snow. We have been using a Monitor 331 oil heater and love the warm heat. I understand a heat pump is not that warm. We also don't like paying huge electric bills either. House is roughly 1000 sq ft. Any suggestions would be appreciated. This is all new to us and could use some different opinions.

Even with a oil furnace a heatpump would save you money when the temp is cold but not yet below 30 degrees. Don`t think a heatpump would keep you warm in the winter with your oil or sometype furnace as back-up.. Again I believe a heatpump would pay you a great savings on the not below freezing days