The idea of running both a furnace and heat pump may seem somewhat strange at first. After all, why should you need two heaters? Even though furnaces and heat pumps both produce energy-efficient heat, the differences in their design really make using both of them a practical option. It’s not for everyone, but with the right conditions you can truly benefit from owning a furnace and a heat pump.
You should weigh several factors in order to confirm if this sort of setup suits you. Your local climate and the square footage of your home are both very important, especially for the heat pump. This is because some models of heat pumps will work less efficiently in colder weather and larger homes. That being said, you can still reap the benefits of heat pump installation in Wyandotte.
Heat Pumps Might Be Less Efficient in Colder Weather
Heat pumps are generally less effective in colder weather as a result of how they generate climate control in the first place. As opposed to furnaces, which combust fuel to create heat, a heat pump reverses its stream of refrigerant to pull heat from outdoor air. This heat is then brought inside and dispersed throughout your home. As long as there is still a little heat energy in the air, a heat pump should function. But the lower the temperature, the less efficient this process is.
The less heat energy is accessible outside, the longer it takes a heat pump to draw heat indoors to maintain your desired temperature. It can depend on the specific make and model, but heat pumps generally start to lose efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and below. They can still be an energy-efficient option until 20-25 degrees, at which a gas furnace is more effective.
What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Run Best In?
Heat pumps manage best in milder climates 40 degrees and up. Having said that, you don’t have to miss out on the benefits of a heat pump just because the local climate is cooler. In fact, that’s why having both a furnace and heat pump may be worth the expense. You can keep the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is cold enough to warrant shifting to something like a gas furnace.
Some makes and models tout greater effectiveness in cold weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of running at 100% capacity at 0°F. It can even continue running in temperatures as cold as -22°F. For maximum energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to switch to the furnace in severely cold weather.
So Should I Get a Heat Pump if I Have a Gas Furnace?
If you’re serious about maintaining the most energy-efficient HVAC system achievable, owning a heat pump and gas furnace at the same time deserves the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system adaptable, but it features other perks including:
- Reliable backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one fails, you still have the capability to heat your home. It may not be the most energy efficient, but it’s better than shivering in an unheated home while you wait for repairs.
- Fewer energy costs – The ability to pick which heating system you use depending on the highest energy efficiency decreases your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life of these heating systems can really add up to lots of savings.
- Less strain on both systems – Compared to running one system all winter long, heating duties are split between the furnace and heat pump. Essential hardware can survive longer since they’re not under continuous use.
If you’re still unsure about heat pump installation in Wyandotte, don’t hesitate to contact your local certified technicians. They can walk you through your home’s comfort needs and help you figure out if a dual-heating HVAC system is the best option.
