The concept of using both a furnace and heat pump can feel a little odd at first. After all, why would you need two heating systems? While furnaces and heat pumps both deliver energy-efficient heat, the changes in their design really make using both of them a reasonable option. It’s not for everyone, but in the right conditions you could absolutely benefit from owning a furnace and a heat pump.

You’ll want to think about several factors in order to determine if this kind of setup helps you. Your local climate and the dimensions of your home are both very important, namely for the heat pump. This is because numerous models of heat pumps start to function less effectively in cooler weather and large homes. Even so, you can still reap the benefits of heat pump installation in Branchville.

Heat Pumps May Be Less Effective in Cold Weather

Heat pumps are commonly less reliable in cold weather because of how they generate climate control to begin with. Unlike furnaces, which burn fuel to provide heat, a heat pump reverses its flow of refrigerant to draw heat from outdoor air. This heat is then brought inside and circulated around your home. As long as there is still some heat energy in the air, a heat pump should function. But the cooler the temperature, the less reliable this process is.

The less heat energy is available outside, the more time is needed for a heat pump to draw heat indoors to reach your ideal temperature. It might depend on the specific make and model, but heat pumps may start to lose efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and colder. They can still be an energy-efficient option until 20-25 degrees, after which a gas furnace will be more effective.

What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Run Best In?

Heat pumps function best in temperate climates 40 degrees and up. Having said that, you don’t have to miss out on the benefits of a heat pump just because your local climate is colder. As a matter of fact, that’s why using 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 chilly enough to justify shifting to something like a gas furnace.

A few makes and models feature greater effectiveness in winter 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 optimal 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 thinking 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 versatile, but it provides other perks like:

• A source of backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one fails, you still have the capability to heat your home. It might not be the most energy efficient, but it’s better than shivering in an unheated home while you sit around for repairs.
• Reduced energy costs – The ability to pick 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 lots of savings.
• Less strain on both systems – Compared to running one system all winter long, heating responsibilities are separated between the furnace and heat pump. Key components can survive longer given that they’re not under nonstop use.

If you’re still unsure about heat pump installation in Branchville, don’t hesitate to contact your local professional 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.