When the temperatures dip and the winter winds blow, you want to ensure your home is warm and comfortable. In that regard, having a reliable heat pump is essential.
But what happens when something goes wrong with your heat pump? When does a heat pump switch to emergency heat, and how do you use it effectively? Keep reading to learn more.
Understanding What Emergency Heat Is
The first step in understanding when a heat pump will switch to emergency heat is learning what it is. In short, EM heat is an auxiliary system designed to kick in when the temperature outside drops below freezing and the standard operating mode of the heat pump becomes inefficient or unable to keep up with demand. The system consists of electric resistance strips or a gas furnace providing additional heat to keep your home warm.
Identifying the Symptoms of Emergency Heat
The next step is identifying when a heat pump may switch to emergency heat. The most common symptom is an increase in energy bills due to the extra wattage used by the system.
However, depending on the unit type, you might also experience a slightly louder sound when it kicks in or see condensation forming near your unit’s vents. Additionally, if you feel cold air coming from your registers instead of warm air, this could be a sign that your heat pump has switched to emergency mode.
Knowing When to Use Emergency Heat
When should you use emergency heat? Generally speaking, you should only activate the system if the outside temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, if you live in an area that experiences extreme temperatures, consider starting EM heat at lower temperatures. Additionally, if your heat pump is over ten years old or has had multiple repairs in a short period, switching to emergency heat may be a good idea and can help prevent further breakdowns.
If you notice that your heat pump is broken and unable to keep up with demand, activating your emergency heat system can be a good option. It would help if you used it in short bursts rather than as a primary or full-time solution for your home’s heating needs. Since it consumes a ton of energy, using it too often can lead to skyrocketing electricity bills.
The Benefits of Knowing When to Switch to Emergency Heat
Finally, it’s important to emphasize the benefits of knowing when a heat pump will switch over to emergency mode. By understanding how your system works and when it’s appropriate to use emergency heat, you can avoid costly energy bills and prolong the life of your unit.
With that said, if you need help with when to activate emergency heat or have any other questions about your system, contact an experienced heating and cooling technician for help.
Stay Warm and Comfortable with Jon Wayne Heating & Air in Missouri
At Jon Wayne Heating & Air, we are committed to helping our customers stay warm and comfortable during the cold winter. We provide a wide range of heating services, from installations and repairs to maintenance and emergency heat assistance.
Our experienced technicians will work with you to identify the best system for your home and provide guidance on how to use it effectively. We understand the importance of having a reliable heat pump in the winter. Contact us today to learn more about our services in Missouri and how we can help keep your home warm.
