One of the reasons people love heat pumps is because they offer both heating and cooling. But there can be some concern about the heating heat pumps can provide when the air temperature dips below 32 degrees. If you have concerns about using just a heat pump to heat your home, you may want to consider the installation of a hybrid heating system. Why? A hybrid heating system is comprised of a heat pump as your main source of heating, with a back-up gas furnace. This means that no matter what the temperature may be outside, you will always be warm and comfortable inside. First, let’s take a look at how a hybrid heating system works.
There are two main components of a hybrid heating system: the heat pump and the gas furnace. Heat pumps provide heat by absorbing the available heat in the outside air, concentrating it, then distributing it to your living spaces. As the air becomes colder, less heat is available in the air for the heat pump to absorb; this is why, when it’s 32 degrees or colder, your heat pump may not heat your home as well as you need it to. This is where the back-up furnace comes in. With a hybrid system, your heat pump is equipped with a sensor that is programmed with a set-point temperature that automatically switches your heating system from the heat pump to the furnace. Typically, this temperature is set a few degrees above the freezing point. A set-point temperature is also set to switch back to the heat pump. The switch is automatic and works in conjunction with your home’s dual-fuel thermostat.
Benefits of a Hybrid Heating System
- Energy efficiency – with a hybrid heating system, you will still gain the energy-saving benefits of using a heat pump, which can improve your home’s overall efficiency levels.
- Comfortable heating – with a hybrid heating system, you’ll never have to worry about a lack of heat as the gas furnace back-up ensures that heat is always available.
- Heating and cooling – with a hybrid system, you can still enjoy the heating and cooling offered by a heat pump.
If you’ve been concerned about your heat pump’s ability to provide enough heat during winter, a hybrid heating system in St. Augustine may be just what you’ve been looking for.
Contact Climate Masters today and schedule an appointment with one of our installation experts.
