The Lowdown on Backup Heat
We cut through the chill of misconceptions and lay out the warm facts for homeowners facing the perils of extreme cold. Whether you're deep in weathering the frost or simply preparing for the eventuality of a cold snap, our guide ensures that you've got the right arsenal to back up your home comfort strategy.
Unpacking the Chill: Understanding Heat Pumps in Extreme Cold
Before focusing on backup strategies, it's essential to understand the challenge. Heat pumps are efficient devices that use the most economical energy source, usually outside air, to heat your home, even in sub-freezing temperatures. However, their efficiency decreases as temperatures drop further, a significant issue in climates where extreme cold is frequent, not rare.
When your primary source of heat starts to shiver, you need backup. And when it comes to heat pumps, there are two wings that can rest warmly on a homeowner's shoulders: Electric Resistance Heat Strips and Hybrid (Dual Fuel) Furnaces.
Electric Resistance Heat Strips: Your Heat Pump's Best Friend
Electric resistance heat strips are the quintessential moth to a flame story – except this flame, while not as romantic, is undeniably effective during those chilling cold snaps. These strips are integrated into the air handler of the heat pump and can kick into action swiftly, providing supplementary warmth without the need for any combustion.
Auxiliary or Supplemental - Which One Do You Need?
It's a balancing act with electric resistance heat strips serving as an 'auxiliary' heat source, stepping in when the heat pump struggles in extreme cold. The 'supplemental' mode brings the heat strips alongside the heat pump for an extra boost of warmth when needed.
Cutting Costs Without Compromising Comfort
The combination of heat pumps and electric resistance heat strips is economically beneficial. Together, the heat pump handles most of the heating, with the heat strips providing efficient, extra warmth. This duo helps avoid the usual winter spikes in electricity bills seen with traditional heating methods.
Hybrid (Dual Fuel) Furnaces: An Alternative for the Truly Frostbitten
Sometimes, in the face of unyielding cold, even electricity needs more oomph than it can offer. That's where the hybrid, or dual fuel, furnace swoops in. This heating system melds the warm heart of a conventional combustion furnace with the ingenious efficiency of a heat pump.
Hybrid solutions are recommended for specific situations, such as homes with heat loads exceeding 3 tons, houses with small ductwork, or those situated in extremely cold climates where temperatures often drop below -30°C. They can also be an interesting option for unique circumstances, such as homes already equipped with a backup generator that frequently experience power outages.
The size of the electrical panel is also a consideration.
Conclusion: The Warmth of Preparedness
As the cold sets in, prepared homeowners stay warm with the right knowledge and gear. Electric heat strips and hybrid furnaces are key strategies to fight the extreme cold, providing solid support to your main heating system.
The goal is simple – know your heating options, understand your needs, and gear up to beat the cold. Home comfort reigns supreme, even in the deepest freeze. Whether you're facing an icy blast or just prepping for winter, the right backup heater is your ally in maintaining comfort and efficiency.
Jouleia’s Home Expert Service can guide you through the process of choosing between backup heat options.
