When it comes to maintaining comfort in our homes during the colder months, our heating systems play a vital role. For those with heat pumps, in particular, understanding the difference between auxiliary and emergency heat is essential for ensuring efficient operation and avoiding unexpected repair costs. Our Air Quality HVAC team will discuss the difference between the two modes and when they must be used appropriately.
Understanding Auxiliary Heat
In the chilly winters, the efficiency of a heat pump can decrease as the temperature drops. This is where auxiliary heat comes in to ensure your indoor environment remains snug and warm. Auxiliary heat, often referred to as “aux heat,” is a secondary heating system that supports your heat pump when it struggles to extract enough heat from the outside air.
It’s an automatic feature that activates when there’s a considerable difference between the temperature your thermostat is set at and the actual temperature inside your home. Typically, this happens when the indoor temperature is about 1.5 to 2 degrees lower than the desired setting. Auxiliary heat sources are generally electric heating coils integrated within your HVAC system, which, while efficient in short bursts, can lead to higher electricity usage if the system relies on them too frequently.
When Does Emergency Heat Come Into Play?
Emergency heat, on the other hand, should be reserved for true heating emergencies. In the event that your heat pump fails or when temperatures are extremely cold, typically below 30 degrees, the emergency heat mode keeps your home warm until a professional furnace repair technician can address your heat pump’s issue. It’s manually activated through your thermostat and transitions your heating system to rely solely on the backup heating source, bypassing the heat pump entirely.
Unlike auxiliary heat, emergency heat is not intended for regular use. Operating your system in emergency heat mode is less energy-efficient and can lead to increased energy costs if utilized over an extended period.
Navigating Thermostat Settings for Optimal Comfort
Your thermostat plays a pivotal role in managing the air quality and temperature within your household. It’s important to set your thermostat correctly to avoid over-dependence on auxiliary heat. Tips for effectively setting your thermostat include:
- Setting Incremental Temperatures. Adjust your thermostat in small increments to avoid unnecessarily triggering the auxiliary heat.
- Understanding Temperature Responses. Recognize that auxiliary heat may turn on during extreme outdoor temperature drops, but it should not activate in milder conditions.
- Checking the Thermostat. Keep an eye on your thermostat to ensure it is not mistakenly keeping the auxiliary heat on when temperatures are reasonable.
In conclusion, recognizing the distinctions between auxiliary and emergency heat—along with appropriate usage and reliance on professional support—can significantly enhance the comfort and energy efficiency of your home during colder periods in San Jose, CA. For more information about your HVAC system, or if you are looking to have your equipment serviced, get in touch with Air Quality Heating & Air Conditioning. Call us at (408) 920-3910, or fill out our contact form today.