what's the difference between auxiliary heat and emergency heat

3 min read 22-12-2024

what's the difference between auxiliary heat and emergency heat

Choosing between "auxiliary heat" and "emergency heat" on your thermostat can be confusing. Both provide heat when your primary heating system isn't enough, but they work differently and have distinct implications for your energy bill. Understanding the difference is crucial for efficient and cost-effective home heating. This article will break down the key distinctions between these two heat sources.

Understanding Your Heating System: Beyond the Thermostat

Before diving into the specifics of auxiliary and emergency heat, it's helpful to grasp the general workings of most modern heating systems. Many homes utilize a heat pump as their primary heating source. Heat pumps are highly energy-efficient, transferring heat from outside air (even in cold weather) into your home. However, during extremely cold temperatures, a heat pump might struggle to provide sufficient warmth. This is where auxiliary and emergency heat step in.

Auxiliary Heat: The Energy-Efficient Backup

Auxiliary heat is a supplemental heating system designed to assist your primary heating system (usually a heat pump). It kicks in when your heat pump can't maintain the desired temperature on its own. This usually happens when the outside temperature drops significantly below freezing. Auxiliary heat often utilizes electric resistance coils or a gas furnace, providing a boost of warmth without completely switching to a less efficient heating method.

Benefits of Auxiliary Heat:

Energy Efficiency: Generally more energy-efficient than emergency heat.
Gradual Transition: Often seamlessly transitions between the heat pump and auxiliary heat as needed.
Cost-Effective: Lower energy costs compared to using emergency heat constantly.

When Auxiliary Heat is Used:

Moderately Cold Temperatures: When outside temperatures are below freezing, but not extremely frigid.
High Demand for Heat: When the house needs extra heat to maintain the set temperature.

Emergency Heat: The Last Resort

Emergency heat is a backup system used only when your primary heating system fails to function correctly or when outside temperatures are extremely low, rendering your heat pump ineffective. It typically runs entirely on electric resistance heating, which is significantly less energy-efficient than heat pumps or auxiliary heat sources.

Drawbacks of Emergency Heat:

High Energy Consumption: Uses significantly more electricity, leading to higher energy bills.
Short-Term Solution: Intended for short-term use during emergencies or extremely cold weather.
Costly Operation: Can dramatically increase your monthly heating expenses.

When Emergency Heat is Used:

Extremely Cold Temperatures: When outside temperatures are exceptionally low.
Heat Pump Malfunction: If your primary heating system isn’t working.
Short-Term Boost: For a quick burst of heat in a specific area.

Which System Should You Use?

The choice between auxiliary and emergency heat depends primarily on the outside temperature and the performance of your primary heating system. Generally, you should prioritize using auxiliary heat whenever possible, as it's more energy-efficient. Only resort to emergency heat in extreme cold or when your primary system is malfunctioning.

Monitoring Your Energy Usage

Regularly monitor your energy usage during periods when you use auxiliary or emergency heat. This helps you understand the impact of each system on your energy bills and allows for more informed decision-making in the future. Consider setting up smart home monitoring to track energy consumption more effectively.

Professional Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your heating system is vital for optimal performance and efficiency. Scheduling annual inspections by a qualified HVAC technician can prevent unexpected breakdowns and help ensure that both your auxiliary and emergency heat systems are functioning correctly.

Conclusion: Choosing Wisely for Warmth and Savings

Understanding the differences between auxiliary and emergency heat is key to managing your home's heating effectively and keeping energy costs under control. By choosing the appropriate heating mode based on the temperature and the condition of your system, you can enjoy a warm and comfortable home while minimizing your environmental impact and saving money on your energy bills. Remember, using auxiliary heat when possible is the most efficient and cost-effective approach.