Yes, it is possible to use a heat pump thermostat with a gas furnace, and this is commonly referred to as a dual fuel or hybrid system. A dual fuel system combines the cooling and heating performance of a heat pump with the consistent heating capacity of a gas furnace, providing energy cost savings and increased comfort levels.
Understanding Dual Fuel Systems
When considering a dual fuel system, it is essential to understand the utility pricing options from local utility providers, as electricity and natural gas prices can fluctuate significantly based on weather conditions, local distribution costs, and pricing regulations. This knowledge will help you determine the optimal times to use the heat pump or the gas furnace, maximizing energy efficiency and cost savings.
Installing a Dual Fuel System
To install a dual fuel system, you will need to:
- Run New Thermostat Wire: You will need to run new thermostat wire with at least 8 connectors to accommodate the additional wiring required for the dual fuel system.
- Replace the Gas Furnace: You will need to replace the gas furnace with an air handler, which is a component that houses the indoor coil and blower for the heat pump.
- Install the Heat Pump: You will need to run new coils or lines to the new heat pump on the roof.
- Vent the Furnace: The venting from the furnace can be completely removed or just plugged up inside the wall.
The cost of a dual fuel system installation can vary, and it is recommended to get multiple quotes and compare them to determine a reasonable price for your location. Factors that can affect the cost include the size of your home, the complexity of the installation, and the specific equipment being used.
Choosing the Right Thermostat
For a dual fuel system to work efficiently, a thermostat that can control both the heat pump and the gas furnace is necessary. Many modern heat pump compatible thermostats, such as ecobee, Nest, and AprilAire, can control both a heat pump and a gas furnace.
When selecting a thermostat, it is essential to ensure that it is compatible with the specific heating system, whether it is a 1-stage or 2-stage heating system. This information can be found in the thermostat’s specifications or by consulting with a professional HVAC technician.
Thermostat Compatibility Considerations
When choosing a thermostat for a dual fuel system, you should consider the following compatibility factors:
| Compatibility Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Heating Stages | The thermostat must be compatible with the number of heating stages in your system (1-stage or 2-stage). |
| Cooling Stages | The thermostat must be compatible with the number of cooling stages in your system. |
| Auxiliary Heat | The thermostat must be able to control the auxiliary heat source (gas furnace) in addition to the heat pump. |
| Reversing Valve | The thermostat must be able to control the reversing valve, which switches the heat pump between heating and cooling modes. |
| Outdoor Sensor | Some thermostats require an outdoor temperature sensor to optimize the switching between the heat pump and gas furnace. |
By ensuring that the thermostat is compatible with your specific heating and cooling system, you can maximize the efficiency and performance of your dual fuel system.
Optimizing Dual Fuel System Performance
To optimize the performance of your dual fuel system, it is essential to understand the balance point temperature, which is the outdoor temperature at which the heat pump can no longer efficiently heat your home. Below this temperature, the gas furnace will take over to provide the necessary heating capacity.
The balance point temperature can vary depending on factors such as the size of your home, the efficiency of your heat pump and gas furnace, and the local climate. By understanding the balance point temperature, you can program your thermostat to automatically switch between the heat pump and gas furnace, ensuring optimal energy efficiency and comfort.
Conclusion
In summary, using a heat pump thermostat with a gas furnace in a dual fuel system can provide energy cost savings and increased comfort levels. However, understanding the utility pricing options, the specific heating system, and getting multiple quotes for installation are crucial to ensure a successful and cost-effective installation. By following the technical details and considerations outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the process of installing and optimizing a dual fuel system in your home.