What is a hybrid heat (dual fuel) system and what are its advantages and disadvantages?
A. A dual fuel system is the most economical heating system available for our climate. The system employs a heat pump as the primary heating source for the home. The heat pump heats the house very effectively down to between 25 and 30 degrees. Below this temperature range, a secondary heat source (usually a natural or L. P. gas furnace) is turned on intermittently to supplement the capacity of the heat pump. The secondary heat is necessary because the heat pump, which is simply a reverse cycle air conditioner, is unable to provide all of the heat your home needs under these conditions. When outdoor temperatures go down to 25 to 30 degrees and the heat loss of the house causes the indoor thermostat to call for more heat, the furnace is started by the indoor thermostat and the heat pump turns off. After the furnace has produced sufficient heat to provide the comfort your home needs, the heat pump will come back on and run to produce a portion of the heat your home needs. As outdoor tempe
