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

You should take a look at several factors in order to confirm if this kind of setup helps you. Your local climate and the size of your home are both especially important, especially for the heat pump. This is because multiple models of heat pumps start to work less efficiently in colder weather and bigger homes. Even so, you can still take advantage of heat pump installation in Reinholds.

Heat Pumps May Be Less Efficient in Winter Weather

Heat pumps are generally less effective in cooler weather due to how they generate climate control in the first place. Unlike furnaces, which combust fuel to provide heat, a heat pump reverses its flow of refrigerant to pull heat from outdoor air. This heat is then brought inside and distributed all through your home. As long as there is still some heat energy in the air, a heat pump will function. But the lower the temperature, the less effective this process is.

The less heat energy is accessible outside, the longer it takes a heat pump to draw heat indoors to reach your ideal temperature. It might depend on the exact 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, after which a gas furnace should be more effective.

What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Work Best In?

Heat pumps work best in milder climates 40 degrees and up. That being said, you don’t have to lose out on the benefits of a heat pump just because the local climate is cold. In fact, that’s why having both a furnace and heat pump may be worth the cost. You can use the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is cool enough to call for shifting to something like a gas furnace.

Some makes and models boast greater performance in cold weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of running at 100% capacity at 0°F. It can even remain efficient in temperatures as extreme as -22°F. For optimal energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to use the furnace in especially cold weather.

So Should I Get a Heat Pump if I Own a Gas Furnace?

If you’re interested in maintaining the most energy-efficient HVAC system achievable, owning a heat pump and gas furnace at the same time warrants the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system flexible, but it provides other benefits such as:

  • A source of backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one breaks down, you still have the means to heat your home. It might not 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 choose which heating system you use based on the highest energy efficiency decreases your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life of these systems can really add up to a lot of savings.
  • Less strain on both systems – Rather than running one system all winter long, heating duties are separated between the furnace and heat pump. Essential components can last longer since they’re not under continuous use.

If you’re still hesitant about heat pump installation in Reinholds, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local professional technicians. They can review your home’s comfort needs and help you figure out if a dual-heating HVAC system is the better option.