The idea of installing both a furnace and heat pump may sound somewhat strange at first. After all, why should you need two heating systems? Although furnaces and heat pumps both produce energy-efficient heat, the changes in their design really make using both of them a practical option. It’s not for all of us, but in the right conditions you will definitely benefit from having a furnace and a heat pump.

You’ll need 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 highly important, particularly for the heat pump. This is because multiple models of heat pumps start to run less efficiently in colder weather and bigger homes. Even so, you can still reap the benefits of heat pump installation in Genoa.

Heat Pumps Can Be Less Effective in Winter Weather

Heat pumps are generally less reliable in cold weather due to how they generate climate control to start with. Unlike furnaces, which ignite fuel to generate heat, a heat pump reverses its supply of refrigerant to pull heat from outdoor air. This heat is then pulled inside and dispersed around your home. As long as there is still some heat energy in the air, a heat pump can function. But the lower the temperature, the less reliable this process is.

The less heat energy is usable outside, the more effort is required for a heat pump to bring heat indoors to reach your desired temperature. It might depend on the type of 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 is more effective.

What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Run Best In?

Heat pumps work best in temperate climates 40 degrees and up. That being said, you don’t have to give up on the benefits of a heat pump just because your local climate is cooler. As a matter of fact, that’s why using 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 chilly enough to call for shifting to something like a gas furnace.

Some makes and models tout greater efficiency in cold 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 cold as -22°F. For optimal energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to switch to the furnace in severely cold weather.

So Should I Install a Heat Pump if I Use a Gas Furnace?

If you’re serious about maintaining the most energy-efficient HVAC system achievable, installing a heat pump and gas furnace at the same time deserves the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system adaptable, but it features other advantages like:

• 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 may not 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 choose which heating system you use depending on the highest energy efficiency reduces your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the lifetime of these heaters can really add up to plenty 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. Essential components can live longer since they’re not under continuous use.

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