A dual-fuel HVAC system combines two types of heating to deliver maximum comfort and energy efficiency. Many homeowners add them to their houses so they can enjoy cheaper heating costs. These systems work best in climates like that of Nixa, MO, with four distinct seasons and temperatures ranging from subfreezing in winter to 90°F or above in summer. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about dual-fuel systems, including how they work and why you need one.
What Is a Dual-Fuel HVAC Setup?
The two components that make up a dual-fuel system are a heat pump and a gas furnace. At low enough temperatures, the gas furnace will switch on to supplement the heat provided by the heat pump. By switching to the most efficient power source, this hybrid setup maximizes both comfort and energy savings.
Increased Energy Efficiency for Cost Savings
One of the main benefits of adding a dual-fuel system to your home is the increase in energy efficiency that it provides. Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat, which is more efficient than burning fuel for heating. When the temperatures are mild, the heat pump will keep the home warm and cozy without using a lot of energy. If the temperatures drop below freezing, the furnace can kick on to help save money on heating bills.
Better Energy Use for a Smaller Carbon Footprint
The higher energy efficiency of dual-fuel systems also makes them appealing to people who want to reduce their carbon footprint. Instead of using a heating system that relies solely on fossil fuels and produces higher emissions, a dual-fuel system will switch between a heat pump and a furnace. If you’ve been looking for a way to make your home more sustainable, adding a heat pump to create a dual-fuel setup might be the best solution.
Improved Performance for Enhanced Air Quality
Improved air quality is another reason to upgrade your home with a dual-fuel system. The use of a heat pump makes it much easier to control indoor humidity because you’ll achieve more stable temperatures. This enhanced moisture control reduces mold and mildew, which is great for your health. It also helps prevent issues like stale air, dust mites and structural damage to the house.
Climate Suitability
Climates with moderate winters and occasional severe cold spells are perfect for dual-fuel HVAC systems. You can leave the heat pump on for the majority of the year. When temperatures drop below freezing, the gas furnace kicks on to keep the house toasty. Because of their versatility, dual-fuel systems are great for areas with extreme temperature swings. They work well in homes where a central heating and cooling system would not be enough.
Automatic Switching
Automatic switching is a useful feature of HVAC systems that use two fuels. Thanks to their intelligent design, these systems can sense the outside temperature and automatically switch to the most suitable heating mode.
Longer System Lifespan
In a dual-fuel setup, switching between the furnace and the heat pump means both systems get less use than they would if you only used one of them. As a result, the parts experience less wear and tear and last longer. If you’re looking for the HVAC configuration with the longest lifespan, a dual-fuel system might be your best option.
Requires Proper Sizing
A dual-fuel system will work well in your home only if it is the right size. An expert can perform an assessment to ensure you install equipment with the correct heating capacity and proper efficiency ratings. You’ll be able to rest easy knowing the configuration will provide the best heating possible without wasting energy.
Incentives and Rebates
Homeowners who install dual-fuel systems may be eligible for rebates and incentives from their local utility providers. These rebates and discounts can help reduce the sticker shock of installing a new HVAC system. To find out whether there are any local rebates or incentives, contact your utility company or HVAC service provider.
Upgrading Existing Systems
You can turn your current HVAC system into a dual-fuel model by adding a heat pump. This is an excellent option if you want to increase your home’s energy efficiency but don’t want to replace the whole HVAC system. A skilled technician will know the exact changes to make to integrate the heat pump with your existing setup.
Required Maintenance
Like any other heating and cooling system, a dual-fuel system needs regular maintenance. Annual inspections by a professional are crucial to spotting problems like leaking refrigerant and worn-out components. A technician can also address issues like clogged filters and insufficient airflow during maintenance visits. Making adjustments to thermostat settings and refrigerant levels will help the system perform at its best year-round.
Backup Heat for Cold Weather
The backup heat from the gas furnace is one of the most notable aspects of dual-fuel systems. At dangerously low temperatures, the heat pump loses some of its efficiency, and the furnace kicks in to make up the difference. Even in the dead of winter, your house will be toasty and cozy thanks to this feature.
Also Works as an Air Conditioner
In a dual-fuel system, the heat pump not only heats your house in the winter — it also cools it in the summer. It does this by drawing heat from the inside and sending it outside. This two-in-one design decreases your home’s use of energy by eliminating the need for separate heating and cooling systems.
Silent Operation
Heat pumps are far less noisy than most furnaces, making them ideal for homes with young children or pets. Their silent operation is also a huge plus for those who have trouble sleeping or just like a peaceful house.
Zoning Capabilities
Some dual-fuel HVAC systems provide the capability to control the temperature of different rooms separately. This is particularly useful for multistory houses or those with lots of square footage. By dividing your home into zones, you can control the temperature in each room to your liking. Everyone in the home can stay comfortable with this type of customized heating and cooling.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Dual-Fuel System?
It normally takes anywhere from one to three days to add a dual-fuel system to a house. The timeline largely depends on whether you’re upgrading an existing system or doing a completely new installation. If you’re upgrading a system, the process might take less time because there are fewer parts to install. Ensuring compatibility and proper sizing are the two most important parts of the installation process.
Never try to install the HVAC equipment yourself. The project requires expert-level tools and skills to ensure the setup provides the best energy use and performance possible.
Queen City Heating & Cooling is an industry leader in dual-fuel systems. We specialize in installations for HVAC systems of all types, including heat pumps, forced-air systems, boilers and more.
Call Queen City Heating & Cooling now to learn more about the benefits of using a dual-fuel system in Nixa, MO.
