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Dual Fuel Heat Pump: How Does it Work?
Gas vs. Oil Furnace: Which Is Better for Your Home?
November 28, 2022
HVAC Rebates 2023
January 23, 2023If you’re looking to upgrade the heating system in your home, you might want to consider getting a dual-fuel heat pump. Although it may look like a conventional furnace and A/C system, the unit is upgraded to an air-source heat pump – this provides both cooling and heating options.
Dual fuel heat pumps are also much more energy efficient than typical heating options like electric or gas. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of converting to a heat pump furnace combo for your home.
Table of Contents
How does a dual-fuel heat pump work?
A dual-fuel heat pump is designed for the optimum volume of hot and cold air based on the conditions outside and in your home. This is achieved by combining a heating and cooling system that utilizes a heat pump with a furnace to provide maximum energy efficiency all year round. It is also one of the best ways to provide sustainable, environmentally friendly energy for your home while saving money on your energy bills.
The dual heating system is a hybrid design that combines an electric heat pump and a gas furnace. It switches between the two devices based on temperature, season, and function. This allows for the highest level of efficiency.
The system operates like a central air conditioner in the summer, keeping your home cool and comfortable. In the winter, it provides the right level of heat to keep your home warm by converting fuel into heat.
When Is a Hybrid Heat System Recommended?
There are many times when a hybrid heating system makes more sense than other heating options.
Particularly if you are looking for fuel savings or deal with varied temperature.
The temperature is always changing
Canada is a complex weather country and the temperature can change multiple times throughout the day. A dual heating system allows for easy and quick switching between temperatures so that you are always comfortable.
If your home is in a region where the temperature fluctuates frequently, then dual fuel systems are the most practical option. Your unit runs when required and shuts off when it’s not needed. This allows you to experience heating and cooling as it should be.
If local municipalities encourage energy efficiency
Communities in Canada work together to create maximum energy efficiency and energy savings for their residents. There are so many programs you can tap into to help you cover the cost of switching to dual fuel systems. That’s why you should consult with your local municipality or provincial government to see which programs are available in your area.
You may be surprised to find that there are rebate programs and credits to help you make the change. Remember in some communities it is required to install more energy-efficient heating systems when you do renovations or builds, so make sure you are meeting all local building codes and guidelines with your heating choice.
If dry heat in the winter affects you
Do you find your skin getting dry and flakey during the winter? It is probably your heating system. Many HVAC systems do not offer efficient humidifying capabilities. This leaves your skin parched and your home feeling dry and uncomfortable. The dual furnace system provides “cooler” heat. Skin dryness is one of the most common complaints among homeowners who rely on gas heat. A hybrid gas and electric heating system takes the dryness out of keeping your home warm during the cold months.
This means you don’t have to switch the furnace on and off multiple times a day. Just pick the temperature that is most comfortable for you and enjoy a comfortable and efficient heating experience.
Why can dual-fuel heat pumps save you energy and money?
It’s never been more important to save money or energy. The cost of keeping your home warm continues to climb. So it’s important to have a heating system that responds to these increases and fluctuations without hurting your budget. A dual fuel heating system, switching back and forth between the furnace and heat pump based on your energy requirements and heating needs. If you don’t need a furnace during hot temperature, then the heat pump will not switch on, so you aren’t wasting energy. A dual fuel system lets the furnace do the work, providing efficient heating, then providing more energy-efficient heating when it’s cool outside, but you don’t require the full heating capacity of a furnace.
This more economical and efficient approach to heating your home saves you energy and money. The devices work together to provide the heating and cooling you need at the right times and at the right temperatures. This means less energy waste through your HVAC system saving you hundreds of dollars on your utility bills each year.
Environmental Impact of a Dual Fuel System
Portable heaters don’t just consume high volumes of energy but they are also bad for the environment. A dual heating system finds the right environmental balance to help you heat and cool your home in a more sustainable way. Adding an electric air source lessens our dependency on natural gas, making it more environmentally friendly. The result is not just helping the environment, but saving money too.
Aging air conditioners and heating systems can emit dangerous pollutants. They also have to work harder, putting a strain on the environment and your pocket book. A hybrid system cuts this waste and ensures that your unit is operating at maximum efficiency.
Research shows that the average homeowner can reduce GHG emissions by 30 percent. Consumers will appreciate the 50 percent savings on hydro when they get their utility bills. This is particularly beneficial to homeowners living in mild to moderate climates that don’t require excessive levels of heating.
Heat pumps also have a longer life than space heaters lasting around 15 years. This makes them an excellent long-term home heating investment.
Cost of a Dual Fuel Heat Pump
A hybrid heating pump system is one of the best budget decisions you can make for your home. Unlike new furnaces and HVAC systems a dual heating pump is an economical option to keep your home warm. With installation, the average cost for a heat pump is between $3,800 and $8,200 depending on the size of the area you are trying to heat. Remember you don’t want to underestimate how much heat your home may require so always choose a fuel furnace that will meet your needs.
You may also require additional ductwork depending on the age and kind of home you live in. This can cost between $2,400 and $6,000. An air handler replacement will cost approximately $2,000 to $3,500. Your heat pump installation expert will be able to provide you with a comprehensive cost breakdown that fits your budget and heating needs.
A new dual-fuel heat pump is an investment that will provide you with long-term savings. They are two to three times more efficient than traditional furnaces. This means it will lower your energy bills by $300 to $1,500 annually.
Most homeowners will not have to incur any extra expenses as most homes already have the required ductwork and gas lines to make a dual heat pump a simple and quick installation.
Your heating installation expert will be able to do an assessment of your home’s existing heating system and provide you with a detailed breakdown of the requirement to install a dual-fuel heating system.
Contact Us
Are you ready to improve your home heating system with an electric furnace with a dual-fuel heat pump? A dual-fuel heating system is the best place to start. Our heat pump with furnace experts can help you create the perfect heating system for your home. Combining energy efficiency and fuel savings, you can not only save energy with a dual fuel heat pump but drop your energy bills too.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let the heating and cooling experts at ThermEnergy help you keep your home at the perfect temperature all year long. We also offer a full range of HVAC and hot water heater installation and repair services.
