The thought of installing both a furnace and heat pump can seem a bit odd at first. After all, why do you need two heaters? Although furnaces and heat pumps both deliver energy-efficient heat, the changes in their design really make using both of them a worthwhile option. It’s not for everybody, but under the right conditions you can definitely benefit from owning a furnace and a heat pump.
You’ll want to take a look at several factors in order to determine if this type of setup suits you. Your local climate and the dimensions of your home are both very important, especially for the heat pump. This is because multiple models of heat pumps begin to function less effectively in winter weather and larger homes. At the same time, you can still benefit from heat pump installation in Marshfield.
Heat Pumps May Be Less Effective in Winter Weather
Heat pumps are generally less efficient in cold weather due to how they create climate control to start with. Unlike furnaces, which combust fuel to create heat, a heat pump reverses its supply of refrigerant to draw heat from outdoor air. This heat is then brought inside and dispersed throughout your home. Provided there is still some heat energy in the air, a heat pump will function. But the cooler the temperature, the less reliable this process is.
The less heat energy is available outside, the more effort is required for a heat pump to bring heat indoors to reach your ideal temperature. It might depend on the type of make and model, but heat pumps generally start to lose out on efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and colder. They still remain 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. That said, you don’t have to lose out on the benefits of a heat pump just because your local climate is colder. As a matter of fact, that’s why installing both a furnace and heat pump can be worth the cost. You can keep the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is cool enough to warrant swapping to something like a gas furnace.
A few makes and models boast greater effectiveness in cooler weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of working at 100% capacity at 0°F. It can even remain functional in temperatures as cold as -22°F. For optimal 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 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 provides other advantages like:
- Dependable backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one stops working, 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 select which heating system you use according to the highest energy efficiency reduces your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life span of these heating systems can really add up to plenty of savings.
- Less strain on both systems – Compared to running one system all winter long, heating responsibilities are divided between the furnace and heat pump. Essential components may last longer since they’re not under continuous use.
If you’re still hesitant about heat pump installation in Marshfield, 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 determine if a dual-heating HVAC system is the best option.