Dual fuel heating systems use the heat pump in temperatures ranging from 40°F and higher and the furnace in temperatures ranging from 39°F and below. Thus, depending on the weather, these systems easily switch between the furnace and the heat pump. This mechanism thus saves energy and time while providing your home with the desired temperature. You get the best of both worlds when it comes to dual-fuel HVAC systems, i.e., cold or hot air when most required.
The electric heat pump is driven by gas, propane, or oil, and there are two heating sources as the system alternates between two fuel sources. A dual fuel system is thus a hybrid system that consists of both an electric pump and a gas furnace. This increases the efficiency of the dual fuel systems. The heat pump initially takes on the job of heating, after which the gas furnace turns on as a secondary heat source.
At Hurliman, we are experts in all things HVAC. Our highly-skilled technicians have the experience and knowledge to handle all of your heating and cooling needs. Our top-notch installation services ensure that your new system is properly installed and configured for optimal performance. Contact Hurliman today to schedule your HVAC installation service and start enjoying a more comfortable home.
Why should you switch to dual fuel systems?
Dual fuel systems have a lot of benefits over traditional heating systems. This is because these systems can be used with natural gas as well as solar panels. With solar panels, dual fuel systems can run on cheap electricity, thereby helping you go green.
- Dual fuel systems are versatile.
- These systems can help reduce energy costs significantly.
- Dual fuel systems can be used with solar panels as well as natural gas.
- They can be used with propane or oil.
- With dual fuel systems, you can go green.
- Dual fuel systems are high in efficiency.
Mechanism of a dual fuel heat pump
A dual-fuel heat pump serves as both an air conditioner and a heater, depending on the temperature outside. Let us look at the mechanism of dual fuel systems.
- During summer, the heat pump acts as an air conditioner. Just like an air conditioner, it works to remove all hot air from your home. In the place of this hot air, cool air is rushed into the room, which is distributed by the blower of the furnace. This is how the heat pump acts as a temperature regulator and provides comfort in the hot summer months.
- When it is cool outside, like in fall and spring, the heat pump supplies warm air, depending on the fan of the heat pump. The dual system is incorporated, but no burner is used during these months. Only the blower is used along with the heat pump.
- During the cold months, the furnace is fired up to provide more and more heat. This is when the real dual fuel system kicks in as both the heat pump and the furnace is in working mode. For temperatures outside that are 35°F and above, the heat pump pulls heat from the outdoors, the cost of which is lower than lighting up the furnace. The furnace is only used for the coldest of months.
What is the cost of purchasing a dual fuel heating system?
To upgrade your system to a dual-fuel one, you first need to contact your natural gas provider. Pricing is one of the most important factors that need to be taken into consideration when it comes to deciding on the upgrade. It is thus important to be aware of what the upgrade might cost.
You can also go for propane or oil. Gas line installation can cost anywhere between $12 to $25 per linear foot, whereas running a gas line from a connection you take is about $355 to $743. Adding a pipe from that of the meter is extra by about $500 to $2,000. Thus, converting to a natural gas system and installing a new gas line from the street to the house is more than $2,000.
A 500-gallon propane tank on the ground costs about $700 to $2,500. A propane tank installed below ground costs between $1,500 and $3,000. Extra charges are incurred for installing the line to your home. The connection to your furnace and the cost of filling are also added later.
What is the cost of a high-end heat pump?
A high-end dual-fuel heat pump can cost anywhere between $6500 and $12500, varying from one brand to another. These heat pumps come with a variable-speed fan that keeps running even when the outdoor temperatures are freezing. The best models can even operate in temperatures of -5 degrees. Though the heating system won’t run at its full capacity, some heating will still be done.
How to find the right dual fuel heating system?
Upgrading to a dual-fuel heating system makes sure that your home gets comfortable. While some homeowners are comfortable making the switch and upgrading their systems, others might require a bit more research. Doing maximum research is the best way to get comfortable about purchasing an HVAC unit, and it’s also important to try and find a heating system with a longer lifespan.
The best method to proceed is by conducting research and, depending on it, planning a timeline and forming a budget. It is important to know your requirements and focus on them while conducting the research. The next most important thing is to see whether the system falls within your budget. You can always take recommendations from friends and family or call experts who can guide you through the entire process.
Contact Hurliman
Once you are comfortable with a system that works for your budget, you will be happy to get a new and efficient HVAC system that will stay put for decades to come. Contact Hurliman today to schedule your installation and start enjoying the benefits of a dual-fuel heating system in your home.
