The concept of using both a furnace and heat pump may sound somewhat strange at first. After all, why do you need two heating systems? Even though furnaces and heat pumps both provide energy-efficient heat, the differences in their design actually make using both of them a viable option. It’s not for all of us, but in the right conditions you will absolutely benefit from having a furnace and a heat pump.

You’ll want to take a look at several factors in order to determine if this kind of setup suits you. Your local climate and the square footage of your home are both especially important, namely for the heat pump. This is because many models of heat pumps will work less efficiently in winter weather and bigger homes. At the same time, you can still take advantage of heat pump installation in Dresden.

Heat Pumps Might Be Less Reliable in Colder Weather

Heat pumps are typically less efficient in cooler weather due to how they create climate control to start with. Unlike furnaces, which ignite fuel to generate heat, a heat pump reverses its stream of refrigerant to extract heat from outdoor air. This heat is then drawn inside and distributed around your home. Provided there is still a bit of heat energy in the air, a heat pump will function. But the colder the temperature, the less reliable this process is.

The less heat energy is usable outside, the more time is needed for a heat pump to draw heat indoors to reach your preferred temperature. It can depend on the specific make and model, but heat pumps generally start to lose efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and below. They still remain an energy-efficient option until 20-25 degrees, at which a gas furnace should be more effective.

What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Perform Best In?

Heat pumps work best in moderate climates 40 degrees and up. Having said that, you don’t have to miss out on the benefits of a heat pump just because your local climate is cold. As a matter of fact, that’s why using both a furnace and heat pump may be worth the costs. You can favor the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is chilly enough to call for shifting to something like a gas furnace.

A few makes and models boast greater performance in cold weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of working at 100% capacity at 0°F. It can even continue running in temperatures as low as -22°F. For optimal energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to swap to the furnace in particularly cold weather.

So Should I Install 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 versatile, but it features other advantages including:

  • A source of backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one breaks down, you still have the ability 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.
  • Lower energy costs – The ability to choose which heating system you use according to the highest energy efficiency lowers your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life span of these heating systems can really add up to lots of savings.
  • Less strain on both systems – Compared to running one system all winter long, heating responsibilities are split between the furnace and heat pump. Essential components could last longer as they’re not under continuous use.

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