All heat pumps are outfitted with emergency heat switches. This switch is meant to be used as its name implies—if there is an emergency. The emergency heat switch will turn on a strip, or strips, of electric heat and turn your heat pump off. When the temperature outside drops below 40 degrees, many Woodbridge residents will flip the switch in order to make it warmer. While this will do the job, we don’t advise doing this. When your system works in this emergency mode, it can use a lot of energy and send your utility costs skyrocketing.

Fire & Ice HVAC recommends only flipping on your emergency heat switch if your heat pump has stopped heating your space. When it’s colder outside and it feels like your heat pump is constantly running, let it do its job. It’s actually much more efficient to let your heat pump run that it would be if your heat pump is working in its emergency mode.

If you notice that your heat pump isn’t keeping up with the cooler weather in Woodbridge, it’s wise to give Fire & Ice HVAC a call. Investing in a backup heating system might save you some expense in the long run. We can install your backup system to work like a dream with your heat pump. So, when it’s cold enough outside that your heat pump can’t pull warmer air into your home, your thermostat can instinctively switch on your backup heating system. This method will keep your home cozy and warm on chilly days—and you can save your emergency heat switch for real heating emergencies.

If you want to hear more about ways you can supplement your heat pump’s heat supply or find out more about how your heat pump works, call our experts at 703-595-4157. Our experts are happy to help. If it’s more convenient for you, you can also schedule an appointment with us online using our handy scheduler.