How Do Hybrid Heating Systems Work?

The majority of homes and businesses in Cincinnati are equipped with furnaces or heat pumps to provide heating. Traditionally, furnaces and heat pumps have worked as separate systems. As technology has advanced, though, new hybrid heating systems have been developed, combining the two system types to create a heating system offering efficiency and maximized comfort.

Keep reading to learn more about how hybrid heating systems work and the benefits of having one installed in your Cincinnati area home. For all of your home’s heating needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to Nelson Comfort today.

What Is Hybrid Heating?

A hybrid heating system (sometimes called a hybrid dual fuel heating system) utilizes both a furnace and an electric heat pump to manage temperatures in the home or building year-round. These intuitive systems utilize the equipment most appropriate to achieve efficient temperature control depending on environmental conditions. They automatically switch to the appropriate mode of heating for cost savings and optimal efficiency.

In the summer, the heat pump works to extract hot air, cooling indoor spaces. While heat pumps can be used to generate heat, they are not as efficient when working with temperatures below freezing. In this situation, a hybrid heating system will activate the furnace (natural gas, electric, oil, or propane) to create heat more efficiently. However, heat pumps are great for most of the year and are often the preferred method of heating homes when outside temperatures are above 35 degrees.

Benefits of Installing a Hybrid Heating System

Hybrid systems offer several advantages for home and business owners.

You’ll Always Have Sufficient Heat

Heat pumps provide the best of both worlds. When temperatures allow for it, your heat pump will use refrigerant to move warm air into your home, offering more uniform heating distribution than forced air heating systems which create their own heat. But when temperatures dip below freezing, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing your furnace will kick on to keep your family safe and warm.

Energy Savings

With the ability to switch between systems to run at optimal efficiency, hybrid heating systems generate more energy savings than using a furnace or heat pump alone.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

By reducing energy consumption with a hybrid heating system, users can reduce their carbon footprint and the environmental impact of HVAC system use.

Lower Operating Cost

Lower energy consumption means lower utility bills! Heat pumps are very energy-efficient, utilizing minimal electricity. The system’s ability to only use the furnace when optimal conditions are present reduces your fuel consumption throughout the winter, increasing savings.

Service Agreements from Nelson Comfort

The best way to ensure your hybrid heating system works efficiently throughout the winter months is to have it professionally tuned up in the fall. Since your heat pump and furnace both operate during the winter months, it’s important to have a technician inspect both systems’ components to ensure everything is in good working order.

During a tune up, a technician from Nelson Comfort will ensure all components are cleaned, oil and tightened for increased energy efficiency. This will lead to lower energy bills and a decreased chance of an untimely repair.

Enrolling in an HVAC service agreement from Nelson Comfort will ensure tune ups are performed for your heating and cooling system twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. Not only will this keep your system running in optimal condition, it will also keep your warranty intact, as many manufacturers require regular maintenance to be performed.

Contact Nelson Comfort for a Hybrid Heating System

Are you ready to switch to hybrid heating in your Cincinnati home or business? Nelson Comfort’s NATE-certified heating technicians provide quality installation for dependable hybrid heating systems. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule service.

About The Author

Dan Detmer

Dan Detmer is the owner of Nelson Comfort. Dan was born into the heating and cooling industry, coming from a family of well respected HVAC contractors in Dayton, Ohio. After working in the family business, Dan decided to work for a local HVAC wholesale business helping local contractors grow their business. When he felt his heart moving him back into the residential and light commercial business, Dan joined the Mortimer Heating & Cooling team in Cincinnati, where he had called home and become part of the community for several years. After a short period of time Dan purchased the company and created what is today, Nelson Comfort. Today he operates a company based on integrity, honesty, and stellar customer service. If you have any questions feel free to tweet (at sign) NelsonComfort and we will get right back with you!