With fossil fuel prices getting higher and electric rates staying relatively affordable, the newest trend in heating is going with a dual fuel, or hybrid, system that combines a gas or oil furnace with a heat pump outside.
Heat pumps are very inexpensive to operate through a large part of the typical heating season—although they need help heating the home when the temperatures outside drop below freezing.
But more and more heat pumps are being installed with fuel furnaces. A special thermostat or a dual fuel kit provides the interface between the heat pump and furnace. The installer picks the temperature at which the furnace takes over, and when the outdoor temperature reaches that point, the fuel furnace automatically provides the heat.
Ask a contractor you trust if this sort of system is right for you. In our experience, most homeowners in Central Indiana can save a lot of money going hybrid.