The concept of using both a furnace and heat pump may seem a bit strange at first. After all, why do you need two heaters? Although furnaces and heat pumps both deliver energy-efficient heat, the variations in their design actually make using both of them a potential option. It’s not for everybody, but under the right conditions you can absolutely benefit from having a furnace and a heat pump.
You should weigh several factors in order to confirm if this kind of setup works for you. Your local climate and the square footage of your home are both very important, namely for the heat pump. This is because many models of heat pumps start to run less efficiently in cooler weather and larger homes. Even so, you can still take advantage of heat pump installation in Fredericksburg.
Heat Pumps Might Be Less Reliable in Winter Weather
Heat pumps are commonly less efficient in cooler weather because of how they generate climate control to start with. Unlike furnaces, which ignite fuel to generate heat, a heat pump reverses its flow of refrigerant to draw heat from outdoor air. This heat is then drawn inside and circulated around your home. Provided there is still a little heat energy in the air, a heat pump will function. But the lower the temperature, the less efficient this process is.
The less heat energy is accessible outside, the more time is needed for a heat pump to bring heat indoors to generate your desired temperature. It may depend on the specific make and model, but heat pumps can start to lose efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and under. They can still be an energy-efficient option until 20-25 degrees, after which a gas furnace is more effective.
What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Run Best In?
Heat pumps work best in moderate 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 cold. As a matter of fact, that’s why installing both a furnace and heat pump can be worth the costs. 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.
Certain makes and models tout greater performance in cold 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 low as -22°F. For optimum energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to swap to the furnace in severely 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, having 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 benefits such as:
- Dependable backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one stops working, you still have the means to heat your home. It won’t always be the most energy efficient, but it’s better than shivering in an unheated home while you wait for repairs.
- Reduced energy costs – The ability to pick which heating system you use depending on the highest energy efficiency lowers your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life of these heating systems can really add up to plenty of savings.
- Less strain on both systems – Instead of running one system all winter long, heating responsibilities are separated between the furnace and heat pump. Crucial components can last longer since they’re not under continuous use.
If you’re still unsure about heat pump installation in Fredericksburg, don’t hesitate to contact your local professional technicians. They can evaluate your home’s comfort needs and help you decide if a dual-heating HVAC system is the ideal option.