Here’s What You Need to Know About Dual Fuel Systems

The seasons in Northern, CO can be starkly different. Freezing winters present challenges for HVAC systems in keeping homes warm, but it’s not always easy to use that same system in warmer months to keep homes cool.

One potential solution is to use a dual fuel system that uses two different strategies for more efficient and comfortable results.

How a dual fuel system works

Dual fuel systems utilize the efficiency of a heat pump system and the power of a gas furnace to keep your home comfortable. They alternate between electric heating and gas heating depending on outdoor and indoor conditions.   Historically cold weather climates were not good candidates for a heat pump system because the outdoor air temperature prohibited them from efficiently heating a home.  Today's heat pumps can perform at much lower temperatures which make them very effective for Colorado winters.

During a call for heat, the heat pump conditions the inside air by transferring energy from the outdoor air to the inside utilizing a refrigerant circuit.  The warm air is distributed through the duct system just like a conventional forced air system.  This process can be very efficient when the air temperature is not extremely cold and can surpass the efficiency of conventional gas furnaces. 

When the outdoor temperature reaches a point where it is more efficient to run the gas furnace, the system switches over and the home is heated using the furnace.  This allows the consumer to use the best that gas and electric systems have to offer and when it is combined with a solar array, we can in some cases heat a home with little to no cost.

Advantages of dual fuel systems in Northern Colorado

Comfort

The big appeal of dual fuel systems is energy efficiency. Gas burners and electric pumps are built to be energy-efficient for different times of the year. A dual fuel system automatically switches over in season changes to whichever method works best during a given time. 

Efficiency

There’s also a cost consideration. The dual fuel setup generally uses whatever option is less expensive to run at the time. When the electric pump's working, you’re not shelling out additional money for gas. On cold nights, the gas furnace is usually less costly to use than the electric pump. The two systems “collaborate” to deliver ideal indoor temperatures with greater ease and efficiency.

Environmentally Friendly

A heat pump system can drastically reduce your carbon footprint by utilizing electricity to heat your home.  The by products of burning fossils fuels can be reduced by up to 90% by utilizing a dual fuel system.

If you’re interested in learning more about dual fuel systems, or all your other HVAC options, call MGI Mechanical Services to schedule a consultation.