Dual Fuel Systems

keeping warm

A dual fuel system sounds more Batman-like than it really is. It can solve a lot of issues for homeowners, but it’s really nothing more than a combined HVAC system comprised of a heat pump and a gas or oil furnace. It’s got the best of both types of heating, allowing more homeowners––especially Virginia homeowners––to take advantage of the efficiency of a heat pump, and the warmth of a furnace, no matter where they live. Our Vailes professionals are handling more and more requests for these installations than ever before.

How Does It Work?

A heat pump works differently than a furnace in that it removes the heat from the outside air and transfers it to inside your home. When it’s time to cool your home, it does the reverse by removing the heat from inside your home and sending it outdoors. Its heating process differs from a furnace, as a furnace actually uses its fuel (gas or oil) to create its own heat.

A dual fuel system relies on the heat pump to act as the air conditioner when needed, then turn around and heat the home when needed. However, a heat pump can only work well when outside temps remain above 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or so. After the temperatures outdoors dip below what’s specified, the furnace then takes over for heating with this system. It’s a tag-team affair, which opens up the geographical possibilities for heat pumps since the colder temperatures can now be handled.

Advantages

Having a combination system like this definitely offers advantages over either just a heat pump or furnace alone. The biggest advantage is the efficiency of the system. The heat pump cools in the summer by removing the hot air from your home, so an air conditioner that creates its own cool air isn’t needed. Then in the colder weather, the furnace only runs when the temps fall below what the heat pump handles. Both these scenarios equate to an efficient system of less energy actually being used, which leads to less energy costs, i.e., less money you’re spending––which leads to another advantage. Less cost in the long run. The initial installation of both a heat pump and furnace combo will be more than just a heat pump or furnace alone. But in just a few years, you’ll recoup your investment by what you’ve saved in energy bills. Also, if you’re purchasing the dual fuel system, that means you’re not purchasing an air conditioner. So it could all even out.

If this type of system is something you’re considering, contact one of our Vailes Company professionals to discuss the pros and cons of such a system for your home. Our technicians are happy to help.

If you are in Fishersville, Stuarts Draft or Waynesboro, Staunton or any of the surrounding communities call us to day or request service online. We service all of the surrounding communities, check our service area page for more information on the communities work in or call the office if you don’t see your area listed.

Need Service?

Contact the experts at Vailes Home Services.

Call us at 540-942-0198!

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