The concept of running both a furnace and heat pump may seem a bit odd at first. After all, why do you need two heating systems? Even though furnaces and heat pumps both provide energy-efficient heat, the changes in their design genuinely make using both of them a worthwhile option. It’s not for all of us, but with the right conditions you will definitely benefit from owning a furnace and a heat pump.
You'll need to think about several factors in order to decide if this sort of setup helps you. Your local climate and the size of your home are both especially important, particularly for the heat pump. This is because numerous models of heat pumps start to work less efficiently in winter weather and large homes. At the same time, you can still reap the benefits of heat pump installation in Crestview.
Heat Pumps Can Be Less Reliable in Cold Weather
Heat pumps are generally less effective in cooler weather due to how they generate climate control to start with. Unlike furnaces, which combust fuel to create heat, a heat pump reverses its flow of refrigerant to draw heat from outdoor air. This heat is then pulled inside and circulated throughout your home. As long as there is still some heat energy in the air, a heat pump can function. But the colder the temperature, the less reliable this process is.
The less heat energy is accessible outside, the longer it takes a heat pump to pull heat indoors to reach your preferred temperature. It may depend on the exact make and model, but heat pumps can start to drop in efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and below. They still remain 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 function best in milder climates 40 degrees and up. Having said that, you don’t have to lose out on the benefits of a heat pump just because the local climate is colder. As a matter of fact, that’s why owning both a furnace and heat pump can be worth the costs. You can favor the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is cool enough to warrant switching to something like a gas furnace.
Certain makes and models feature 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 remain functional in temperatures as low as -22°F. For maximum energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to use the furnace in especially cold weather.
So Should I Install a Heat Pump If I Own a Gas Furnace?
If you’re thinking about maintaining the most energy-efficient HVAC system achievable, installing a heat pump and gas furnace at the same time warrants the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system flexible, but it offers other perks including:
- Dependable backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one fails, you still have the ability to heat your home. It may not be the most energy efficient, but it’s better than living in an unheated home while you sit around for repairs
- Fewer energy costs – The ability to select which heating system you use according to the highest energy efficiency lowers your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life span of these heaters can really add up to plenty of savings
- Less strain on both systems – Instead of running one system all winter long, heating resources are split between the furnace and heat pump. Crucial parts could last longer as they’re not under continuous use.
If you’re still unsure about heat pump installation in Crestview, don’t hesitate to contact your local expert technicians. They can evaluate your home’s comfort needs and help you decide if a dual-heating HVAC system is the better option.