The thought of installing both a furnace and heat pump may seem a bit odd at first. After all, why should you need two heaters? Although furnaces and heat pumps both produce energy-efficient heat, the changes in their design actually make using both of them a practical option. It’s not for everyone, but with the right conditions you can definitely benefit from owning a furnace and a heat pump.

You should consider several factors in order to determine if this sort of setup suits you. Your local climate and the square footage of your home are both especially important, particularly for the heat pump. This is because some models of heat pumps begin to run less effectively in cooler weather and large homes. Even so, you can still reap the benefits of heat pump installation in Florissant and St. Charles.

Heat Pumps Might Be Less Effective in Cold Weather

Heat pumps are typically less reliable in cooler weather because of how they create climate control to start with. As opposed to furnaces, which ignite fuel to provide heat, a heat pump reverses its supply of refrigerant to pull heat from outdoor air. This heat is then pulled inside and distributed throughout your home. Assuming there is still a little heat energy in the air, a heat pump will function. But the cooler the temperature, the less effective this process is.

The less heat energy is available outside, the more time is needed for a heat pump to bring heat indoors to maintain your desired 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 colder. 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 Run Best In?

Heat pumps work best in temperate 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 colder. As a matter of fact, that’s why owning both a furnace and heat pump may be worth the costs. You can use the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is cool enough to call for switching to something like a gas furnace.

Some makes and models boast greater effectiveness in cold weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of operating 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 swap to the furnace in severely cold weather.

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

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

  • Dependable 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 shivering in an unheated home while you wait for repairs.
  • Lower energy costs – The ability to select which heating system you use based on the highest energy efficiency decreases your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life of these heating systems can really add up to lots of savings.
  • Less strain on both systems – Instead of running one system all winter long, heating resources are split between the furnace and heat pump. Crucial parts may last longer as they’re not under continuous use.

If you’re still not sure about heat pump installation in Florissant and St. Charles, don’t hesitate to contact your local professional technicians. They can review your home’s comfort needs and help you determine if a dual-heating HVAC system is the right option.