When winter temperatures drop in Beech Grove, IN, it’s natural to want your home to stay warm and comfortable. Heat pumps are a popular heating option for many homes in Marion County, thanks to their energy efficiency, functionality as a central air conditioner and heater, and ability to handle most winter conditions.
However, when the mercury plunges, you might find yourself wondering if it’s time to switch your system to emergency heat. Before you flip that switch, you need to understand what emergency heating does, when to use it, and why using it unnecessarily can be costly.
What Is Emergency Heat?
Most air source heat pumps in Beech Grove are designed to work efficiently in a wide range of temperatures, but when outdoor temperatures fall below freezing, the system may struggle to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. To help, heat pumps are equipped with an auxiliary heating mode that activates automatically when needed.
Emergency heat, on the other hand, is a manual setting intended to bypass the heat pump entirely and rely solely on the backup heating source—usually electric resistance coils within the air handler or a gas furnace with a good AFUE rating (annual fuel utilization efficiency).
The Difference Between Auxiliary and Emergency Heat
It’s easy to confuse auxiliary heat with emergency heat—they use the same backup heating source but they serve different purposes. One is automatic for efficiency, while the other is an emergency backup when heat pump services are necessary.
Emergency Heat: This mode is manually controlled and is meant for situations when the heat pump is not functioning properly. It provides warmth if your heat pump has completely failed or is unable to operate, such as after a mechanical breakdown when you’re waiting for heat pump repair service or during periods of severe ice accumulation.
Auxiliary Heat: This is an HVAC system feature that activates automatically when the heat pump alone isn’t sufficient to keep your home warm. It works alongside the heat pump to provide additional heat during extreme cold snaps.
Why You Shouldn’t Switch to Emergency Heat Just for Comfort
Emergency heat is there as a backup when you’re waiting for heat pump repair service, not a primary heating option. Here’s why you shouldn’t use it unless absolutely necessary with heat pump systems:
Higher Energy Costs
The emergency heating system may use less efficient heating methods, like electric resistance heat, which can significantly increase your energy bills. While heat pumps transfer heat efficiently, emergency heat generates heat directly to create hot air, consuming far more electricity.
Increased Wear and Tear
Overusing emergency heat can place unnecessary strain on the backup heating components, leading to premature wear and costly repairs. These systems aren’t designed for long-term use as the primary heating source.
Misdiagnosing Problems
If your heat pump isn’t keeping up with the cold, switching to emergency heat may mask the real issue. Instead of relying on emergency heat for warm air, it’s better to troubleshoot the heat pump or call a professional technician to assess the situation and perform necessary heat pump repair services.
When Should You Use Emergency Heat in Beech Grove, IN?
For homeowners in Beech Grove, you should only switch to emergency heat if your heat pump is not functioning properly. Common scenarios include:
- The outdoor unit is frozen over and unable to operate.
- The heat pump has suffered mechanical failure and cannot produce heat.
- Your HVAC professional has instructed you to use emergency heat temporarily while waiting for heat pump repairs.
It’s important to note that emergency heat is not tied to a specific outdoor temperature. Many heat pumps can continue to operate effectively even in sub-zero conditions. In Beech Grove winters, with average lows in the 20s and occasional dips below 10°F, your heat pump’s auxiliary heat mode will usually suffice without needing to switch to emergency heat.
Troubleshooting Before Switching to Emergency Heat
If your home isn’t staying warm, consider these steps before using emergency heat:
- Check the Thermostat: Make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and the desired temperature. If it’s set too low, your heat pump might not be running as often as it needs to.
- Inspect the Outdoor Unit: Look for ice or snow buildup on your heat pump’s outdoor unit. If it’s frozen over, clear any debris or call a professional for help.
- Replace the Air Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, making your system less efficient. Check your filter and replace it if it’s dirty.
- Call a Professional: If you’ve tried these steps and your home still isn’t warming up, it’s time to contact Brewer Heating & Cooling. Our technicians are experts in heat pump repair and can quickly diagnose and fix the issue.
Beech Grove homeowners are no strangers to cold winters, with January often bringing the chilliest temperatures. While it’s tempting to rely on emergency heat during particularly frigid nights, your heat pump is likely up to the task if it’s well-maintained. Annual HVAC tune ups, proper insulation, and regular filter changes all help ensure your system can handle the cold without resorting to emergency heat.
Call Brewer Heating & Cooling for Heat Pump Assistance in Beech Grove, IN
When your heat pump isn’t working as it should, switching to emergency heat might seem like an easy fix, but it’s not a long-term solution. Instead, let the experts at Brewer Heating & Cooling help. Whether you need a quick repair, routine maintenance, or advice on upgrading to a new heat pump installation, our team is here for you. Don’t let the cold catch you off guard—schedule heat pump repair or service today and enjoy a cozy, worry-free winter in Beech Grove!
