Auxiliary Heat: How It Works and Why It's Important

Auxiliary heat, also known as aux heat, is a supplemental heating feature designed to enhance the performance of heat pump systems. It activates to provide additional warmth when the heat pump cannot maintain the desired indoor temperature. Common sources of auxiliary heat include electric resistance heating elements and gas furnaces.

 

Auxiliary heat is crucial for maintaining indoor comfort during colder conditions. It typically activates when outdoor temperatures drop below a certain threshold, often around 30 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit. At these lower temperatures, some heat pumps struggle to extract sufficient heat from the outside air, necessitating the use of auxiliary heating elements.

 

Several factors can trigger the activation of heat pump auxiliary heat. For instance, if the heating system cannot maintain the thermostat's set temperature, the auxiliary heater will engage to bridge the gap. Additionally, if the system runs for an extended period without achieving the desired temperature, it may automatically switch to aux heat to prevent discomfort. 

 

High humidity levels can also prompt the use of auxiliary heat, as heat pumps may struggle to dehumidify and heat the air simultaneously, requiring backup heating to manage indoor conditions effectively.

 

Understanding the differences between auxiliary heat and emergency heat is essential for optimizing your heating system's performance. 

 

Auxiliary heat serves as a supplementary source that activates when the primary heat pump needs assistance to maintain the set temperature, typically during colder weather. It works in tandem with the main system to provide additional warmth efficiently.

 

In contrast, emergency heat is a backup setting used only when the primary system fails, such as when the heat pump is not functioning properly. This setting relies on electric resistance heating, which is significantly less energy-efficient. Emergency heat should be used sparingly, as it can lead to higher energy bills due to its high electricity consumption.

 

Auxiliary heat generally incurs lower costs since it distributes energy usage between the primary system and the supplemental heating elements. Emergency heat, on the other hand, can substantially increase heating bills if used for extended periods. Homeowners should reserve emergency heat for true system failures and rely on aux heat for additional warmth during particularly cold spells.

 

Whether you need to purchase an auxiliary heating system with your heat pump depends on your climate and how efficiently you want to heat your home during colder months. In areas with mild winters, a heat pump alone may be sufficient However, in colder climates where temperatures frequently drop below the heat pump’s efficient operating range (usually below 35°F or 1-2°C), an auxiliary heating system may be  recommended to provide backup warmth when the heat pump struggles to keep up.

 

Many modern heat pump systems come with integrated auxiliary heating (often electric resistance heat) built in, so you don't need to purchase a separate system. 

 

Another option is to purchase a gas furnace along with your heat pump. When purchasing a gas furnace alongside a heat pump, you are essentially creating a dual-fuel heating system. This setup combines the energy efficiency of a heat pump with the reliability and power of a gas furnace. The heat pump is typically the primary heating source, as it works efficiently to transfer heat from the outside air to your home, even in cooler temperatures. However, when outdoor temperatures drop too low for the heat pump to operate effectively (usually below 35°F or 1-2°C), the gas furnace kicks in as the auxiliary heating source for more powerful heating, ensuring comfort in colder conditions.

 

A dual-fuel system is controlled by a smart thermostat or an integrated control system that automatically determines which heating source to use based on temperature and efficiency.

 

It’s worth considering your local climate and consulting your local Bryant dealer to determine whether additional auxiliary heat is necessary for your home.

Auxiliary heat may come in handy for maintaining a comfortable home during winter, but it's important to ensure it's functioning correctly. There are several indicators that your aux heat may need attention. 

 

If your heating system takes longer than usual to warm your space, or if certain rooms remain cold while others are comfortable, these could be signs of an issue. Additionally, unusual noises like banging or grinding, or an unexpected increase in energy bills, may indicate that your auxiliary heat is not operating efficiently.

 

Knowing when to consult a heating professional is crucial to prevent further complications. If your system does not respond to thermostat adjustments or you detect unusual odors, it's time to call in an expert. Your local Bryant dealer can accurately diagnose the problem and ensure your heating system operates safely and efficiently.

 

Regular HVAC maintenance is key to optimal auxiliary heater performance. Schedule annual inspections to catch potential issues early and replace air filters regularly to promote good airflow. Keeping the area around your heating unit clear of debris and ensuring that vents are unobstructed can also enhance efficiency. These preventive measures can extend the life of your heating system and maintain a comfortable living environment throughout the winter.

 

Bryant offers a range of heat pump products designed to provide exceptional performance, even in the coldest conditions, with the launch of its cold climate heat pump. Our innovative heat pumps deliver optimal heating efficiency, ensuring your home stays warm and comfortable during winter months. With standard air-source heat pumps and geothermal heat pumps, you can choose the perfect system tailored to your specific needs.

 

Bryant also offers smart thermostats to enhance your heating experience. Our advanced thermostats allow you to program heating schedules, adjust settings remotely, and monitor energy consumption. This level of control maximizes comfort and helps reduce energy costs, making it easier to manage your auxiliary heat use effectively.

 

Connecting with a Bryant dealer is a great way to explore your options for auxiliary heating systems that work seamlessly with your heat pump. A Bryant expert can help you understand the benefits of adding a gas furnace or other auxiliary heating sources to your system, ensuring you stay comfortable no matter how cold it gets outside. They will guide you in selecting the right equipment based on your home's heating needs and provide professional installation and service. Schedule an appointment with your local Bryant dealer today to discuss how auxiliary heating can improve your home's comfort and efficiency.