What You’ll Learn
Is a propane heat pump furnace system the right choice for my home?
It depends on your budget and how much you want to save on energy costs. A hybrid heat pump + propane furnace system gives you the efficiency of a heat pump during mild weather and the reliable power of a propane furnace when temperatures drop.
In this blog:
You’re in the market for a new furnace.
Where do you start?
What’s the most efficient option for where you live?
How do you get the best bang for your buck?
You get the best deal by taking the best parts of two systems and having them seamlessly work together.
Thankfully, the creation of a hybrid heat pump + propane furnace system gives you the best of two worlds—a system perfect for the diverse climate of Chester County, PA.
Here’s a breakdown of the weather in Chester County, PA, according to Weather Spark, in case you’re interested…
The hot season lasts for 3.6 months, from May 30 to September 16, and the hottest month of the year in Chester County is July, with an average high of 86°F and low of 70°F.
The cold season lasts for 3.2 months, from December 2 to March 8, and the coldest month of the year in Chester County is January, with an average low of 27°F and high of 41°F.
How Heat Pump + Propane Furnace Systems Work
At their core, heat pump plus propane furnace systems are hybrids designed to maximize efficiency by harnessing the strengths of both technologies while compensating for their respective weaknesses.
Heat Pump Functionality: The heart of the hybrid system is the heat pump. A heat pump is a device that can both heat and cool your home by transferring heat between the outdoor and indoor environments.
Most dual fuel systems are designed to use heat pump heating on days when the temperature is above 35° to 40°F.
For Chester County residents, this means your heat pump will be working from around April to October—about 200 to 220 days out of the year.
During colder months, it extracts heat from the outside air (even when it’s cold) and transfers it indoors to warm your home.
In warmer months, it removes heat from your home and releases it outside to cool your living spaces.
This dual-functionality makes heat pumps highly efficient for moderate climates.
Propane Furnace Backup: To address the limitations of heat pumps in extremely cold weather, a propane furnace is integrated into the system.
When outdoor temperatures plummet below 40°F, the heat pump’s efficiency decreases as there is less heat to extract from the cold air.
The average low stays under 40°F from November to March in Chester County. Which means a furnace is great for about 140 to 160 days out of the year.
This is where the propane furnace comes into play. It kicks in to provide supplementary heat, ensuring your home remains comfortably warm even during frigid winters.
Automatic Switching: One of the key advantages of hybrid systems is their ability to automatically switch between the heat pump + propane furnace based on external temperature conditions and the system’s efficiency.
This ensures that you’re always getting the most cost-effective and energy-efficient heating method for the snowier months of the year—February coming in first with an average snowfall of 6.0 inches.
Pros of Heat Pump + Propane Furnace Systems
Energy Efficiency: The heat pump’s primary mode of operation is much more energy efficient than traditional furnaces, especially in milder climates. This translates to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
Environmental Benefits: Reduced energy consumption leads to fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Using propane as a backup fuel source is more environmentally friendly than relying solely on fossil fuels for heating.
Year-Round Comfort: Heat pump + propane furnace systems provide both heating and cooling capabilities, eliminating the need for separate heating and cooling systems. This will simplify your HVAC setup and save space.
Smart Integration: Many hybrid systems can be integrated with smart thermostats, allowing you to control your home’s temperature remotely and optimize energy use.
Longevity: Properly maintained heat pump + propane furnace systems tend to have longer lifespans than traditional furnaces, resulting in fewer replacements and less waste over time.
Cost Savings: By utilizing the heat pump’s efficiency during moderate temperatures and only relying on propane when needed, you can save significantly on heating costs. This cost-effective approach is especially beneficial in regions with fluctuating winter temperatures.
Fast ROI: Most homeowners who don’t keep their homes extra toasty will save enough in 3 to 5 years to pay for their initial investment—$1,200 to $1,500 a year in fuel costs over a conventional propane gas-only furnace in a moderately sized home.
A hybrid heat pump system also adds to your home’s resale value.
Cons of Heat Pump + Propane Furnace Systems
Higher Upfront Costs: The initial investment for a heat pump + propane furnace system is typically higher than that of a traditional furnace or heat pump. Adding the additional system can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $6,000.
Space Requirements: Hybrid systems are bulkier and require more space in your home due to the integration of both a heat pump and a propane furnace.
Installation and Maintenance: It’s crucial to choose a reputable HVAC professional, preferably one associated with your propane company, for installation and regular maintenance. Improper installation or neglecting maintenance will lead to reduced efficiency and costly repairs.
Noise: Heat pumps are slightly noisier than traditional furnaces, especially when they’re operating in heating mode.
Why Your First Call Should Be to Your Propane Company
If you’re considering a heat pump + propane furnace system, your first call should be to your propane company.
Don’t make 5 phone calls or scroll through Google.
Call your propane provider to see if they can install it for you or who they recommend.
Here’s why they are your go-to resource for these systems:
Expertise: Propane companies have a deep understanding of propane systems and their integration with other heating technologies. They provide expert advice on whether a hybrid system is suitable for your home and climate.
Installation Services: Many propane companies offer installation services, which ensure that the system is set up correctly from the start, maximizing its efficiency and longevity.
Maintenance and Repairs: Propane companies often have technicians trained to service both propane furnaces and hybrid systems. This means you can rely on them for regular maintenance and any necessary repairs, ensuring your system operates smoothly.
Propane Supply: If your heat pump + propane furnace system relies on propane as a backup fuel source, your propane company is able to provide a consistent supply of propane, ensuring you never run out during the coldest months.
Safety: Propane companies prioritize safety and will advise you on proper safety procedures when using propane in your hybrid system.
Worth the Investment
Hybrid heat pump + propane furnace systems are perfect for Chester County homeowners.
These systems are worth the investment because they combine the strengths of heat pumps and propane furnaces while automatically adjusting to external conditions.
To make the most of your investment, it’s crucial to consult with your propane company for expert guidance, installation services, maintenance, and a reliable propane supply.
If you’re looking to switch propane providers, choose Kauffman Gas, and don’t miss out on Gallon-for-Gallon credit!
FAQ
What is a propane furnace with heat pump system?
It’s a hybrid heating and cooling setup that combines a heat pump for moderate weather and a propane furnace for colder temperatures. The system automatically switches between the two for optimal comfort and efficiency.
Why choose a hybrid system over a traditional furnace?
Hybrid systems reduce energy costs, provide year-round temperature control, and use propane only when necessary. This efficiency translates to lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
Is a propane furnace with heat pump a good fit for Chester County?
Yes. Chester County’s mix of warm summers and cold winters makes it ideal. The heat pump covers most of the year, while the propane furnace handles freezing days from November through March.
How much can I save with a hybrid system?
Homeowners can save $1,200–$1,500 a year in fuel costs compared to a propane-only furnace. Many recoup the initial investment in just 3–5 years.
What are the upfront costs of a propane furnace with heat pump system?
Installing a propane furnace with a heat pump system typically costs $2,500 to $6,000 more than a standard system. However, the long-term energy savings and added home value make it a smart investment.
Are there any downsides to hybrid systems?
Hybrid systems generally have a higher initial cost, need more space, and require slightly more maintenance, but people consider these issues to be minor compared to the efficiency and comfort benefits.