The idea of using both a furnace and heat pump can seem a little unusual at first. After all, why do you need two heating systems? Even though furnaces and heat pumps both deliver energy-efficient heat, the differences in their design actually make using both of them a worthwhile option. It’s not for everyone, but with the right conditions you can definitely benefit from owning a furnace and a heat pump.

You’ll need to think about several factors in order to determine if this sort of setup works for you. Your local climate and the dimensions of your home are both very important, especially for the heat pump. This is because many models of heat pumps begin to function less efficiently in winter weather and large homes. Even so, you can still take advantage of heat pump installation in Heflin.

Heat Pumps Can Be Less Reliable in Winter Weather

Heat pumps are generally less effective in cooler weather as a result of how they generate climate control in the first place. As opposed to furnaces, which burn 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. Assuming 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 available outside, the more time is needed for a heat pump to draw heat indoors to reach your ideal temperature. It can depend on the specific make and model, but heat pumps can start to drop in efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and under. They can still be an energy-efficient option until 20-25 degrees, at which a gas furnace should be more effective.

What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Work Best In?

Heat pumps function best in moderate climates 40 degrees and up. Having said that, you don’t have to sacrifice 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 cost. You can favor the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is chilly enough to warrant switching to something like a gas furnace.

Certain makes and models claim greater efficiency 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 extreme as -22°F. For maximum energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to swap to the furnace in severely cold weather.

So Should I Put in a Heat Pump if I Own 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 deserves the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system flexible, but it features other advantages including:

  • Dependable backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one breaks down, you still have the ability to heat your home. It won’t always be the most energy efficient, but it’s better than having an unheated home while you sit around for repairs.
  • Reduced energy costs – The ability to pick which heating system you use based on the highest energy efficiency lowers your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life of these heaters can really add up to a lot of savings.
  • Less strain on both systems – Rather than running one system all winter long, heating responsibilities are divided between the furnace and heat pump. Crucial parts can last longer given that they’re not under continuous use.

If you’re still unsure about heat pump installation in Heflin, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local certified technicians. They can walk you through your home’s comfort needs and help you decide if a dual-heating HVAC system is the ideal option.