The idea of installing both a furnace and heat pump might feel a little odd at first. After all, why would you need two heaters? While furnaces and heat pumps both deliver energy-efficient heat, the differences in their design really make employing both of them a reasonable option. It’s not for all of us, but in the right conditions you will truly benefit from having a furnace and a heat pump.

You should consider several factors in order to decide if this type of setup works for you. Your local climate and the size of your home are both especially important, namely for the heat pump. This is because some models of heat pumps start to function less efficiently in cooler weather and bigger homes. At the same time, you can still benefit from heat pump installation in Delray Beach.

Heat Pumps Might Be Less Effective in Cold Weather

Heat pumps are generally less effective in cooler weather because of how they generate climate control in the first place. Unlike furnaces, which combust fuel to provide heat, a heat pump reverses its stream of refrigerant to draw heat from outdoor air. This heat is then drawn inside and circulated around your home. Assuming there is still a little 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 available outside, the more time is needed for a heat pump to bring heat indoors to generate your preferred temperature. It may depend on the type of make and model, but heat pumps can start to lose out on efficiency at temperatures of 40 degrees and under. They still remain an energy-efficient option until 20-25 degrees, after which a gas furnace should be more effective.

What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Work Best In?

Heat pumps manage best in moderate climates 40 degrees and up. Having said that, 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 installing both a furnace and heat pump may be worth the cost. You can keep the heat pump for energy-efficient heat until the weather is cold enough to justify shifting to something like a gas furnace.

Certain makes and models claim greater efficiency in winter weather. For example, the Lennox MLA heat pump is capable of operating at 100% capacity at 0°F. It can even continue running in temperatures as cold as -22°F. For optimum energy efficiency, you’ll likely still want to switch to the furnace in particularly cold weather.

So Should I Install a Heat Pump if I Own a Gas Furnace?

If you’re interested in 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 such as:

  • A source of backup heating – A redundant heating system means even if one stops working, you still have the ability to heat your home. It might not be the most energy efficient, but it’s better than living in an unheated home while you hold out for repairs.
  • Lower energy costs – The ability to select which heating system you use depending on 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 – Compared to running one system all winter long, heating duties are separated between the furnace and heat pump. Key components may last longer since they’re not under continuous use.

If you’re still uncertain about heat pump installation in Delray Beach, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local certified technicians. They can evaluate your home’s comfort needs and help you determine if a dual-heating HVAC system is the ideal option.