Dual fuel heat pump system has become a more popular choice for homeowners looking for an efficient and cost-effective option. The idea behind dual fuel is that the system is a more energy-efficient way to heat your home. Today’s heat pumps are very efficient, and the furnace has come a long way in recent years. Together, these two technologies could offer cost-effective and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.
In this blog post, we will discuss what a dual fuel heat pump is, how it works, and the benefits of using one. We’ll also provide a list of the best dual fuel heat pumps on the market and give tips on what to consider before purchasing one.
What is a Dual Fuel Heat Pump?
A dual fuel heat pump is an HVAC system that uses both an electric heat pump and a gas furnace to heat your home.
The heat pump is used to heat your home during mild weather conditions, while the gas furnace is used when the temperature drops below a certain threshold. This means that the dual fuel system can automatically switch between the two energy sources, depending on the outside temperature, to ensure your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the year.
How Does a Dual Fuel System Work?
As we mentioned, a dual fuel heat pump system uses an electric heat pump and a gas furnace to heat your home. When the outside temperature is mild, the heat pump takes over and heats your home by extracting heat from the outside air and pumping it inside. This process is highly efficient and can save you money on your energy bills.
However, the heat pump becomes less efficient when the temperature drops below a certain threshold, and the gas furnace is activated to take over the heating duties. This process ensures that your home remains warm, even in the coldest temperatures, and you won’t experience any discomfort. The system is designed to automatically switch between the two energy sources, so you don’t have to manually switch anything.
Dual Fuel Heat Pump Benefits
If you live in an area with cold winters and mild summers, have access to natural gas, want to reduce your energy costs, want a versatile heating solution, or want to reduce your carbon footprint, a dual fuel system can be an excellent choice.
Dual fuel systems are ideal for homes in an area with cold winters because they can efficiently heat your home even when temperatures drop below freezing. A dual fuel system can also be a good choice in areas where summers are mild because it provides efficient cooling during the warmer months.
There are other benefits to using a dual fuel heat pump system in your home:
Energy efficiency – Dual fuel systems are highly energy-efficient, as they can switch between two energy sources to ensure that your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the year. This can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time.
Consistent heating – The system ensures that your home remains warm and comfortable, regardless of the outside temperature.
Environmentally friendly – Dual fuel systems use electricity and gas to heat your home. They are designed to be highly efficient, which can help reduce your carbon footprint.
Versatile – Dual fuel systems are highly versatile, as they can work in various weather conditions and can be customized to meet your specific heating needs.
Dual Fuel Heat Pump Buying Guide
Before purchasing a dual fuel heat pump system, there are several factors to consider.
Size: It’s essential to choose the right system size to ensure that it can efficiently heat your home. An HVAC contractor can help you determine the right size for your home.
Efficiency: Look for a system with a high-efficiency rating, as this can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time.
Cost: The cost of the system is an important consideration, as you want to ensure that you are getting a high-quality system within your budget.
Brand reputation: Choose a reputable brand that has a good reputation for producing high-quality and reliable systems.
Maintenance requirements: Consider the system’s maintenance requirements, as this can affect the overall cost of ownership over time.
Best Dual Fuel Heat Pumps
Now that we have covered the basics of dual fuel heat pumps let’s look at some of the best systems available today.
Lennox XP16
The Lennox XP16 is a high-efficiency dual fuel heat pump that features a variable-speed compressor, which adjusts the output according to your home’s heating needs. This system is compatible with the iComfort S30 thermostat, allowing you to remotely control the system through a mobile app. The XP16 is also designed to be quiet, with a sound rating as low as 74 decibels.
Lennox Elite XP16 Features:
- Efficiency rating of up to 17.00 SEER / 9.50 HSPF
- High-Efficiency Outdoor Coil
- Designed to work with the Humiditrol whole-home dehumidification
- Sound levels as low as 74 dB
- Two-stage scroll compressor
- PermaGuard Cabinet
- SmartHinge louver design
Carrier Infinity 16
The Carrier Infinity 16 is a reliable and efficient dual fuel heat pump with a variable-speed compressor and a two-stage gas furnace. This system is compatible with the Infinity Touch Control thermostat, which allows you to control your home’s temperature, humidity, and air quality through a user-friendly touchscreen interface.
Infinity 16 Features:
- Up to 17.5 SEER and 13.5 EER, HSPF Up to 8.5
- Two-stage compressor
- Sound level 67 decibel
- Compressor sound blanket
Heil QuietComfort 15
The Heil QuietComfort 15 is a high-efficiency dual fuel heat pump with a variable-speed compressor and a two-stage gas furnace. This system is designed to be quiet, with a sound rating as low as 56 decibels. The QuietComfort 15 is also compatible with the Observer Communicating Wall Control, allowing you to remotely control the system through a mobile app.
Heil QuietComfort 15 Features:
- Sound level 68 decibels
- Two-stage heating and cooling with multi-speed blower motor
- Built to withstand bad weather and debris
- Designed for corrosion resistance and lasting performance
Rheem Classic RP16
The Rheem Classic RP16 is a reliable and efficient dual fuel heat pump with a two-stage compressor and a two-stage gas furnace. This system is designed to be durable, with a galvanized steel cabinet and a powder-coated paint finish that resists rust and corrosion. The RP16 is also compatible with the EcoNet Smart Thermostat, allowing you to remotely control the system through a mobile app.
Rheem Classic RP16 Features:
- Efficiencies up to 16 SEER/12.5 EER
- Two-stage scroll compressor
- New composite base pan
- Powder coat paint system
- Optimized reversing valve sizing
Goodman GSZ16
The Goodman GSZ16 is a high-efficiency dual fuel heat pump with a two-stage compressor and a two-stage gas furnace. This system is designed to be easy to install, with a compact design that allows for flexible installation options. The GSZ16 is also compatible with ComfortBridge Technology, allowing you to remotely control the system through a mobile app.
Goodman GSZ16 Features:
- Up to 16 SEER / 9.0 HSPF
- High-efficiency scroll compressor
- SmartShift™ technology to ensure quiet, reliable defrost
- Factory-installed bi-flow liquid line filter drier
- High-and low-pressure switches
Is Dual Fuel Heat Pump Worth It?
Dual fuel heat pumps are an excellent option for homeowners looking for an efficient and cost-effective heating solution. While the initial cost of a dual fuel system may be higher than a traditional HVAC system, the energy savings over time can make up for the higher cost.
Additionally, dual fuel systems are designed to be versatile. They can work in various weather conditions, making them an excellent choice for homeowners in different climates.
Choosing a reputable, experienced HVAC contractor that can provide quality installation services is essential. Look for a company with a good reputation and experience installing dual fuel systems.
Final Thought
A dual fuel heat pump is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a reliable, efficient, cost-effective heating solution. When choosing a dual fuel heat pump system, it’s important to consider factors such as size, efficiency, cost, brand reputation, and maintenance requirements. Also, choose a reputable, experienced HVAC company that provides quality installation services. With the right dual fuel heat pump system and installation, you can keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the year.
