The concept of using both a furnace and heat pump can sound somewhat odd at first. After all, why do you need two heating systems? While furnaces and heat pumps both offer energy-efficient heat, the variations in their design actually make installing both of them a worthwhile option. It’s not for everybody, but with the right conditions you can truly benefit from owning a furnace and a heat pump.

You should take a look at several factors in order to determine if this kind of setup works for you. Your local climate and the dimensions of your home are both highly important, especially for the heat pump. This is because some models of heat pumps begin to work less efficiently in colder weather and bigger homes. At the same time, you can still benefit from heat pump installation in Saint Louis.

Heat Pumps Can Be Less Reliable in Colder Weather

Heat pumps are generally less efficient in colder weather as a result of how they create climate control to begin with. Unlike furnaces, which combust fuel to provide heat, a heat pump reverses its supply of refrigerant to pull heat from outdoor air. This heat is then drawn inside and circulated throughout your home. Assuming 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 usable outside, the longer it takes a heat pump to pull heat indoors to generate your desired temperature. It might depend on the type of make and model, but heat pumps generally start to drop in efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and below. They still remain an energy-efficient option until 20-25 degrees, at which a gas furnace will be more effective.

What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Run Best In?

Heat pumps manage best in milder climates 40 degrees and up. That being said, you don’t have to miss out on the benefits of a heat pump just because your local climate is cold. In fact, that’s why having both a furnace and heat pump can be worth the expense. You can favor the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is cold enough to justify switching to something like a gas furnace.

Certain makes and models tout greater effectiveness in cold weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of running at 100% capacity at 0°F. It can even remain efficient in temperatures as low as -22°F. For optimum 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 Have a Gas Furnace?

If you’re thinking about maintaining the most energy-efficient HVAC system achievable, installing a heat pump and gas furnace at the same time warrants the investment. Not only is a dual-heating system flexible, but it offers other benefits including:

• A source of backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one fails, you still have the ability to heat your home. It won’t always 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 pick which heating system you use according to the highest energy efficiency reduces your total costs. Smaller heating bills over the life of these heating 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. Essential components will sometimes live longer given that they’re not under continuous use.

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