Hybrid heat is a heating system that combines multiple energy sources to provide warmth to a building. The most common type of hybrid heat system combines an electric heat pump with a gas furnace. The heat pump is typically used for milder weather, and the gas furnace gets used for colder temperatures. This allows the system to take advantage of the efficiency of the heat pump while still providing sufficient heat during extremely cold weather.
How Does It Work?
A heat pump works by absorbing heat from the air or ground outside and transferring it into the building. In the winter, a heat pump gets used to pull heat from the outside air or ground and pump it into the building, providing warmth. When temperatures are above freezing, heat pumps are typically more efficient than traditional heating systems such as electric resistance heaters or gas furnaces.
A gas furnace, on the other hand, is a type of heating system that burns natural gas or propane to produce heat. The heat generated by the combustion of gas gets used to warm up the air, which is then distributed throughout the building using a system of ducts. For the above-freezing temperature range, gas furnaces are typically more efficient than a traditional heating system like an electric resistance heater but not as efficient as a heat pump.
By employing a hybrid heat system, the heat pump gets used to provide heat when temperatures are above freezing. The gas furnace can be used as a backup when temperatures drop below the freezing point. This allows the system to take advantage of the efficiency of the heat pump while still providing sufficient heat during extremely cold weather. Because a heat pump is more efficient than a gas furnace, the system as a whole can reduce energy consumption and lower heating costs.
Additionally, a hybrid heat system can provide air conditioning during the summer by reversing the process of the heat pump. It can absorb heat from inside and move it outside.
Trustworthy Expertise in Eureka
If you’re searching for dependable cooling and heating services in or near Eureka, CA, look no further than our experts at Evans Mechanical. We’re a locally owned and operated company that takes great care of our customers. Whether you require installation, maintenance, or repair, our team of trained professionals is ready to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. We handle water heaters too. Contact us at Evans Mechanical today for reliable services.
