Owning a heat pump certainly comes with its benefits — these nifty little systems are efficient, effective, and serve as a great alternative to a traditional heater and air conditioner combo. But, what happens when temperatures drop too low for your heat pump to heat your home efficiently and effectively? Well, a dual fuel system is a great option!
We think that it’s always best to be prepared and having the right combination of HVAC systems (i.e. a dual fuel system) can drastically improve your efficiency during a particularly cold winter. In fact, there are plenty of reasons to consider installing a dual fuel system in your home, and below, we have listed some of them for you. Keep reading to find out more and remember to contact our team when you need heating services in Grand Rapids!
What is a Dual Fuel System?
A dual fuel system is the combination of an electric heat pump and a gas furnace. The combination provides the advantages of both systems while eliminating the drawbacks of each. Dual fuel systems are centralized, using a network of ducts to distribute warm air throughout the home. The heat pump portion works throughout the summer and much of the winter. But, when the temperature gets low enough, the gas furnace takes over.
What are the Benefits?
Like we mentioned above, there are plenty of reasons to make the switch to a dual fuel system, including:
- Efficiency: The number one advantage of installing a dual fuel system in your home is energy efficiency. In general, heat pumps tend to be more energy-efficient than traditional forced-air systems. This is because they do not generate their own heat, but rather move heat from one place to another. But when temperatures become too cold, the heat pump begins to struggle. Switching to a gas furnace then becomes the next best option in terms of energy efficiency. Operating an efficient system keeps both repair costs and utility bills to a minimum.
- Versatility: You’ll be able to use your dual fuel system year-round due to the heat pump’s ability to both heat and cool your home. A heat pump works much like an air conditioner, relying on the flow of refrigerant to move heat from one place to another. A reversing valve is all that is needed to reverse the flow of refrigerant, allowing for summertime cooling! With just the flick of the switch, your heater will become an air conditioner.
- Environmentally Friendly: Due to their ability to switch between different fuel sources at the most economical time, dual fuel systems are very environmentally friendly. Less energy will be spent trying to warm your home during the winter, so you’ll end up using fewer natural resources.
So, What are You Waiting For?
If you are interested in having a dual fuel system installed in your home, do not hesitate to contact a certified HVAC professional. Trust us, only a professional has the tools, knowledge, and expertise to ensure that your new system is set up for success.
Contact the team at GRmetro Heating and Cooling Inc to schedule an appointment!
