The idea of running both a furnace and heat pump might sound somewhat unusual at first. After all, why do you need two heating systems? Although furnaces and heat pumps both provide energy-efficient heat, the changes in their design actually make using both of them a viable option. It’s not for everyone, but under the right conditions you will truly benefit from using a furnace and a heat pump.
You’ll want to take a look at several factors in order to decide if this sort of setup suits you. Your local climate and the dimensions of your home are both highly important, namely for the heat pump. This is because many models of heat pumps begin to work less effectively in cooler weather and larger homes. That being said, you can still reap the benefits of heat pump installation in Port St. Lucie.
Heat Pumps Might Be Less Effective in Colder Weather
Heat pumps are typically less efficient in colder weather as a result of how they create climate control to start with. As opposed to furnaces, which ignite fuel to create heat, a heat pump reverses its flow of refrigerant to pull heat from outdoor air. This heat is then brought inside and circulated around your home. Assuming there is still some heat energy in the air, a heat pump will function. But the cooler the temperature, the less efficient this process is.
The less heat energy is accessible outside, the longer it takes a heat pump to bring heat indoors to maintain your ideal temperature. It can depend on the type of make and model, but heat pumps may start to lose efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and below. They still remain an energy-efficient option until 20-25 degrees, at which a gas furnace will be more effective.
What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Run Best In?
Heat pumps manage best in milder climates 40 degrees and up. That being said, you don’t have to miss out on the benefits of a heat pump just because the local climate is cold. In fact, that’s why owning both a furnace and heat pump may be worth the cost. You can keep the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is cold enough to call for shifting to something like a gas furnace.
Certain makes and models tout greater efficiency in cooler weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of operating at 100% capacity at 0°F. It can even remain functional in temperatures as extreme as -22°F. For optimal energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to switch to the furnace in especially cold weather.
So Should I Install a Heat Pump If I Use a Gas Furnace?
If you’re thinking about maintaining the most energy-efficient HVAC system possible, installing a heat pump and gas furnace at the same time warrants the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system adaptable, but it provides other advantages such as:
- 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 shivering in an unheated home while you hold out for repairs
- Fewer energy costs – The ability to choose which heating system you use depending on the highest energy efficiency reduces your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life span of these heaters can really add up to a lot of savings
- Less strain on both systems – Instead of running one system all winter long, heating duties are split between the furnace and heat pump. Essential hardware could live longer as they’re not under constant use.
If you’re still hesitant about heat pump installation in Port St. Lucie, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local expert technicians. They can walk you through your home’s comfort needs and help you figure out if a dual-heating HVAC system is the ideal option.