The Advantages of Dual-Fuel Heat Pumps

The advantages of dual-fuel heat pumps are apparent when you analyze the operation of these devices as well as the limitations of other technologies. This type of pump is considered a type of air source heat pump. This means that right away it has some advantages: it is easy to operate and economic. Air source electric heat pumps can save a lot of money on electricity. However, they are limited because of their type of operation. They extract heat from the air, a difficult task when there are freezing temperatures outside.

A dual-fuel heat pump also uses a forced air furnace or gas-powered system. This technology can be purchased as two new systems in one, or can literally be combined with two existing pump systems. The gas-powered part of the pump can be fueled using propane or natural gas. This certainly helps in keeping energy costs down, especially on those wintry nights.

There are a few popular options when it comes to choosing dual fuel heat pumps. First, you have forced-air with ductwork combined with a plenum heater; a fossil fuel boiler combined with an electric boiler and finally; supplemental electric heat combined with ceiling panels and cove heat or an electric baseboard.

The first of these tends to be the most economic option and it can effectively heat an entire house in a short period of time. A fossil fuel boiler with an electric boiler system is good for saving space in the house and it can connect to your already existing piping in the house.

Top manufacturers of dual-fuel pump systems include Bryant Evolution, Daikin, Dave Lennox, Fujitsu, Heritage, Rheem, Ruud and Sanyo. However, these are manufacturers that produce dual-systems that are connected to each other. What would the difference be in choosing a two-in-one system new and simply buying two different units at separate times (perhaps even using an existing unit)? The main issue here is that with the newer 2-in-1 systems, there is an automatic function that allows the primary heat to switch right at a certain point of degrees (like 35 Fahrenheit).

How do you know if you need this type of system? If you own an air source electric system then chances are, you will know that you need supplemental power immediately! Some rooms will be cold while others are generally well heated. With dual-fuel heat pump systems everything is heated evenly and you are not charged excessive electricity costs for cold winter seasons.