It may sound overly complicated to have one system run on two different energy sources, but before you decide against it, you might want to learn more. What is a dual fuel system? Have you heard of it by another name? How does it work? What are the benefits and drawbacks? We’ll answer all these questions so that you can make a well-informed choice about whether this option is right for your home.
What Is a Dual Fuel System?
A dual fuel system mainly relies on electricity. It uses that energy source to cool your home in the summer. In the winter, it can also use electricity to do much of the work of heating your home. However, when that is insufficient, such as during extremely cold weather, it uses a backup furnace that runs on natural gas or propane to keep your home completely cozy.
What Are Other Names for Dual Fuel Systems?
You have probably heard of heat pumps. The electric portion of this system is a heat pump. With the addition of the backup furnace, it is sometimes referred to as a hybrid heater, hybrid heat pump, or dual fuel heat pump.
How Do Dual Fuel Systems Work?
A heat pump is a very efficient system for moving heat. It uses refrigerant in coils, much like a traditional air conditioner, to absorb indoor heat in the summer and release it outdoors. Unlike a classic AC unit, however, it has a reversing valve, a switch you can flip to reverse the flow of the refrigerant. In the winter, it can bring heat indoors.
While this technology has been improving at a tremendous rate in recent years and you would probably be surprised at just how much it can heat a home, it still may not be enough to be totally comfortable during the coldest points of a Virginia winter.
That’s where the furnace comes in. Instead of causing wear and tear by putting strain on the heat pump (and still perhaps not getting quite as cozy as you’d like), the furnace will kick on to easily make up the difference.
What Are the Benefits of Dual Fuel Systems?
Having such complete and versatile comfort, and knowing that you’ll be ready for whatever weather strikes, is a huge benefit in Virginia where we have both hot summers and chilly winters. This system is also very efficient and can significantly reduce your energy expenditures.
What Are the Drawbacks of Dual Fuel Systems?
The main issue is that it is a system for both heating and cooling. Say, for example, you need to replace your heating system. Perhaps this sounds like a great option. But if your air conditioner is nearly new and working well, you might not want to invest in a replacement for it right now.
If you have more questions or are curious about whether a dual fuel system in Manassas, VA could be the right choice for your home, we’d love to talk with you.
AllTech Services, Inc. is your trusted resource for dual fuel systems and all other heating and cooling needs. Contact us today!