The idea of running both a furnace and heat pump might feel somewhat unusual at first. After all, why should you need two heating systems? While furnaces and heat pumps both provide energy-efficient heat, the changes in their design really make installing both of them a worthwhile option. It’s not for everyone, but with the right conditions you will definitely benefit from using a furnace and a heat pump.
You should take a look at several factors in order to decide if this type of setup works for you. Your local climate and the size of your home are both especially important, namely for the heat pump. This is because numerous models of heat pumps start to run less effectively in cooler weather and bigger homes. That being said, you can still reap the benefits of heat pump installation in Phoenix.
Heat Pumps May Be Less Effective in Winter Weather
Heat pumps are commonly less reliable in colder weather as a result of how they provide climate control in the first place. Unlike furnaces, which ignite fuel to generate heat, a heat pump reverses its flow of refrigerant to extract heat from outdoor air. This heat is then brought inside and circulated all through your home. Provided there is still a bit of 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 accessible outside, the longer it takes a heat pump to draw heat indoors to generate your ideal temperature. It can depend on the specific make and model, but heat pumps generally start to lose out on 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 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 the local climate is cold. As a matter of fact, that’s why installing both a furnace and heat pump might be worth the cost. You can use the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is chilly enough to justify switching to something like a gas furnace.
Some makes and models tout greater effectiveness in cooler weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of operating at 100% capacity at 0°F. It can even continue running in temperatures as cold as -22°F. For optimal energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to switch to the furnace in particularly cold weather.
So Should I Put In a Heat Pump If I Have a Gas Furnace?
If you’re interested in maintaining the most energy-efficient HVAC system available, owning a heat pump and gas furnace at the same time deserves the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system adaptable, but it offers other perks including:
- Reliable 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 hold out for repairs
- Reduced energy costs – The ability to decide which heating system you use depending on the highest energy efficiency decreases your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the lifetime 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 divided between the furnace and heat pump. Crucial parts will sometimes last longer given that they’re not under constant use.
If you’re still hesitant about heat pump installation in Phoenix, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local certified technicians. They can walk you through your home’s comfort needs and help you determine if a dual-heating HVAC system is the right option.