The thought of using 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 variations in their design genuinely make installing both of them a viable option. It’s not for all of us, but with the right conditions you could truly benefit from having a furnace and a heat pump.

You’ll want to consider several factors in order to decide 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 large homes. Even so, you can still benefit from heat pump installation in Cottonwood & Verde Valley.

Heat Pumps May Be Less Efficient in Winter Weather

Heat pumps are generally less efficient in cooler weather because of how they create climate control in the first place. As opposed to furnaces, which ignite fuel to generate heat, a heat pump reverses its flow of refrigerant to pull heat from outdoor air. This heat is then drawn inside and distributed throughout your home. Assuming there is still a little heat energy in the air, a heat pump should function. But the lower the temperature, the less effective this process is.

The less heat energy is accessible outside, the more time is needed for a heat pump to draw heat indoors to reach your desired temperature. It may depend on the type of make and model, but heat pumps may start to lose efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and below. They can still be 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 function best in milder climates 40 degrees and up. That said, you don’t have to sacrifice the benefits of a heat pump just because your local climate is colder. As a matter of fact, that’s why owning both a furnace and heat pump may be worth the expense. You can keep 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 efficiency in cold 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 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 Have a Gas Furnace?

If you’re serious about maintaining the most energy-efficient HVAC system achievable, owning a heat pump and gas furnace at the same time is worth the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system versatile, but it provides other advantages including:

  • A source of backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one breaks down, you still have the capability to heat your home. It may not be the most energy efficient, but it’s better than having an unheated home while you hold out for repairs.
  • Reduced energy costs – The ability to pick which heating system you use depending on the highest energy efficiency lowers your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the lifetime of these heating systems can really add up to plenty of savings.
  • Less strain on both systems – Instead of running one system all winter long, heating responsibilities are separated between the furnace and heat pump. Crucial components may last longer as they’re not under constant use.

If you’re still uncertain about heat pump installation in Cottonwood & Verde Valley, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local professional technicians. They can walk you through your home’s comfort needs and help you decide if a dual-heating HVAC system is the ideal option.