At What Point Should I Switch My Heat Pump Thermostat to Emergency Heat?

Sometimes when it is extremely cold outside, your heat pump may not be able to keep up with the demand for heat. In this case, you will want to switch your thermostat over to emergency heat. But the question is, at what point should you make the switch? Before we give you the answer, let’s tell you what emergency heat is.

What is Emergency Heat?

Emergency heat is a backup heating system that is usually electric resistance coils. Sometimes, a furnace can also be used as an emergency heating system. It is typically used when your heat pump isn’t functioning as it should due to extreme cold weather.

How Does a Heat Pump Work?

A heat pump works by moving heat from one place to another. In the winter, it takes heat from the outside air and brings it into your home. In the summer, it does the opposite and removes heat from your home and releases it outside. 

However, when the outside temperature goes below a certain point, the heat pump can’t remove enough heat from the air to make a difference in your home. That’s when you need to switch over to emergency heat.

At What Temperature Should You Make The switch?

So, when should you switch your heat pump thermostat over to emergency heat? Generally speaking, you should switch it over when your heat pump isn’t working anymore. This is because the emergency heat will cost you more money to run.

If your heat pump is working but taking longer to heat your home, it will still be more energy efficient than using emergency heat. So, you should only switch to emergency heat when your heat pump has stopped working altogether.

If you’re unsure about whether or not to switch to emergency heat, you can always consult a heat pump expert like Amalo. They will be able to answer your questions and help you understand how the heat pump emergency heat system works.