A dual-fuel system is a home comfort system that pairs an electric heat pump with a gas furnace and alternates between the two fuel sources to maximize comfort and efficiency.
How a dual-fuel heat pump works
A dual-fuel heat pump works in conjunction with a furnace. During the summer months, the heat pump works like a high-efficiency central air conditioner. In mild spring and fall weather, it provides cost- effective and efficient heat. As the temperatures drop in the winter months, the pump shuts off and lets your furnace take over.
Heating with a dual-fuel heat pump
As long as the temperature outside is above 35°F or so, a heat pump can pull heat from the outside air for less than it costs to fire up the furnace. The furnace kicks in for only the coldest months. Heat pumps save energy because transferring heat is easier than making it. Surprisingly, even when it feels cold outside, there is still a decent amount of heat waiting to be pumped. Under ideal conditions, a heat pump can transfer 300 percent more energy than it consumes. In contrast, a high-efficiency gas furnace is about 90 percent efficient.*
Cooling with a dual-fuel heat pump
During cooler seasons like fall and spring, the heat pump handles the heating duties. The dual-fuel system still incorporates the furnace, but without using any burners, just its air distribution features. The heat pump sends hot “refrigerant” through the air-conditioning coil within the furnace. The furnace fan draws air from the home's cold-air returns and blows that air over the warm coil and then sends the warmed air throughout the house. In the summer, the heat pump reverses the refrigerant flow so cold, liquid flows over the coil and cools your home, just like a conventional air conditioner.
Energy and money savings
In addition to saving money in the long run, a dual-fuel heat pump might pay you back right away. This upgrade may qualify for an energy-savings tax credit plus rebates. Ask your utility company and HVAC installer about available incentives in your area.
Lennox® dual-fuel options
Lennox has a range of dual-fuel systems available, all of which offer the perfect combination of comfort and efficiency.
