Can Hybrid Systems Really Deliver Energy Savings?

Winter is well underway, but many of us will think twice before turning up the thermostat due to rising energy prices. So what can be done to increase home comfort, or is it really a matter of sticking on an extra sweater and trying to be stoic about feeling chilly? You may have heard about hybrid systems, and that they can deliver energy savings, but are they really that fuel efficient, and will they keep you warm in winter? The answer is most definitely yes, and the hybrid system is the choice of many households for keeping warm in winter. The reason for this is that it is able to detect the changing outdoor temperatures, and will automatically choose the most fuel efficient way of heating a home. The beauty of hybrid systems is that they utilize two different methods of heating, so you should always stay comfortable even when the temperatures drop well below zero.

Combining a Heat Pump with a Furnace

Hybrid systems generally combine a heat pump with a furnace. A heat pump is the perfect way of staying cool during the summer, but isn't always as efficient during the winter months, especially if it becomes abnormally cold. This is where a furnace comes into play, as a gas or electric furnace is a lot more able to deliver heat quickly, so your home will always stay at a constant temperature. This is by far the most economical way of ensuring home comfort, and is often the perfect system for environments where it occasionally becomes pretty cold outside.

Enjoy Lower Fuel Costs with Professional Installation

The energy savings given by a hybrid system can be considerable, but it is essential that you choose the correct system and have it installed by a professional. This is because it takes quite a lot of local knowledge to set it up properly to lower fuel costs. Your professional installer will have local knowledge of seasonal temperatures, as well as seasonal costs for local gas and electricity utilities. A properly installed heat pump and furnace system will make the greatest use of a hybrid system. In addition your installer will be able to make small adjustments during your fall furnace tune up, and whenever you have your heat pump serviced, to make sure you enjoy lower fuel costs continually.

A Hybrid System Could Be the Perfect Replacement for Your Old Furnace

If you are thinking about replacing your old furnace, then a hybrid system could be the perfect choice. Furnaces generally need replacing after 10 or 15 years, and there's no doubt that the latest models are far more fuel efficient than a decade ago. It's been estimated that the energy savings given by a new hybrid system can be up to 60%, while hybrid systems replacing newer heating systems  less than ten years old can deliver energy savings of up to 40%. It's well worth checking to see if there are any rebates available at the time, and if your local installer has any furnace sales. Another advantage of choosing a hybrid system is that the wear and tear on the furnace and heat pump is reduced, due to the fact that neither will be in continual use.