The weather here in Wilmington, NC can drop to below-freezing temperatures. When this happens, your heat pump and air handler have a back-up function to keep your home cozy and comfortable!
What Is Auxiliary Heat?
Auxiliary or aux heat is a function your thermostat will automatically activate when outside temperatures are cold. Generally, 30 – 40 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the efficiency of your system.
When temperatures dip below freezing, your heat pump may not be able to pull enough heat fast enough to keep your home’s indoor temperature at your desired setting. That’s when the heat strips in your indoor unit kick in.
The heat strips are your heat pump’s secondary heat source. The outside unit will continue pulling as much heat as it can and the heat strips will contribute the rest. When this backup heat source is used, you may notice a slight increase in your electric bill.
What Is Emergency Heat?
Emergency heat acts a lot like auxiliary heat. However, your thermostat has to be manually switched to this setting and manually switched off. Emergency heat should only be used when your outside unit cannot pull heat at all. This could be caused by a broken part or the system malfunctions.
This will activate the heat strips which will then source 100% of the heat to your home until your heat pump is fixed. Even then, the heat strips will not heat your home to your desired temperature but will keep your home from freezing.
Using emergency heat, especially for a longer period of time, will significantly raise your electric bill.
O’Brien Service Company
If you are experiencing problems with your system, do not hesitate to give our office a call at 910-799-6611! We have been locally owned for 40 years and with that comes peace of mind in HVAC maintenance, repairs, and installation.
The most important thing you can do for your system is having an annual maintenance plan. With this plan, you will receive discounts and priority scheduling within 48 hours any time of year. Your system will receive yearly tender loving care which will prevent major repairs, emergencies, and possibly a premature replacement.
If you are in need of a replacement system, our Comfort Specialists offer a complimentary in-home evaluation on new systems. With this evaluation, you can be assured that you are getting the best system for your budget. It will fit your home like a glove, heating and cooling each room efficiently while also being considerate to your electric bill.
We understand that HVAC systems are an investment. We offer financing that will help get that new system become a part of the comfort of home and reap tons of benefits for your health, budget, and peace of mind.
Give us a call or visit our website obrienservice.com to check out who we are and what our loyal customers have to say about us!
