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The Dual-Fuel HVAC System: Is It the Right Choice for You?

Mark J. Biel • Jan 22, 2021

New Mexico may be hot and dry most of the time, but the occasional string of cold days and nights is no joke. You’ll want to make sure your heating system is working properly and efficiently before this abrupt change of weather and temperatures comes about. If your system is already old and failing, you might want to consider a prompt replacement–and be sure to choose the heating unit that will best suit your needs. One exceptional choice that’s now available to you is a dual-fuel HVAC system. But is it actually right for your home? A trusted  air duct cleaning  and plumbing repair company in the area, R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc., shares the essentials you need to know here.

What Exactly is a Dual-Fuel HVAC System?

It sounds more complicated than it actually is, but a dual-fuel system just refers to a hybrid unit consisting of a heat pump and gas furnace. This combo offers a reliable, efficient way to heat a space, no matter the location. Because of this fact, dual-fuel HVAC systems are quickly gaining traction among homeowners and commercial property managers alike. 

How Does It Work?

The heat pump aspect of a dual-fuel HVAC system works the same way as a standard heat pump. It draws on electricity to power the compressor and fans, allowing it to move heat from one place to another. While in cooling mode, it removes the heat from inside your house, and in heating mode it moves heat into your living space. But a heat pump only works well when outdoor temperatures remain at or above 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit. This is where the gas furnace part of the hybrid unit comes in. Once it starts to get colder outside, it takes over. Together, they generate optimal heating for your home. Should you decide to have a dual-fuel system installed, make sure to work with a trusted  HVAC maintenance  and replacement company, R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc., to get the job done.

Why You Should Consider a Dual-Fuel System

There are many ways a dual-fuel system can benefit you. For instance, it can:

  • Improve energy efficiency.  The heat pump cools your living space in the summer by drawing heat out of your home, then generates and moves heat into it during cold weather in a reverse cycle. On days when the temperature dips significantly, the gas furnace can be counted on to heat your home effectively. Only a small amount of energy is consumed in both these scenarios, allowing you to save on your utility bills.
  • Provide a healthy return on investment.  A dual-fuel HVAC system costs a bit more than a single furnace or heat pump, but given the considerable energy it saves, you’ll find that this specific option more than makes up for the initial costs. 

Why You Should Think Twice

As mentioned above, it’s possible that the higher up-front cost of a dual-fuel system installation will turn off some homeowners and businesses. It does, however, offer a lifetime of effortless, efficient heating performance. Another potential downside to consider–a larger heat pump will produce slightly less cooling power than a regular-sized air conditioner while using the same amount of electricity. Before deciding whether or not you should go for a dual-fuel HVAC system, consult a trusted  HVAC repair  and installation company like R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc., to confirm if it will be a worthy investment for you.

Hiring a Reliable HVAC Installation Company

Given how HVAC installation is a huge deal, you’ll want to make sure you’re choosing the right company for the job. Finding one isn’t as daunting as you might expect, especially when you know what to do and look for. You should, for instance:

  • Get local referrals.  Call them outdated, but referrals remain a simple and effective way of narrowing down your choice of HVAC experts, giving you a clearer, more accurate idea of what your experience will be like with a given company. Can they deliver satisfactory results? Are they reliable? Just ask family and friends for a local referral and you’ll be able to find out.

Check for necessary credentials.  Once you have a list of good names, you can do a bit of research. First things first–look them up online. Is their website updated and well-designed? Premier  HVAC repair  companies, such as R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc., spend time and effort making their business visible. Should you check our website, for instance, you’ll be able to see our licensing numbers fairly quickly. 

We’re fully licensed, bonded and insured for your greater protection. Our skilled technicians are also certified by NATE (North American Technical Excellence), meaning they’ve passed the stringent testing and training requirements this organization has set forth. Not only that, we’re also affiliated with the Mechanical Contractors Association (MCA) of New Mexico and Nexstar Network–organizations that promote education and best practices in the HVAC, plumbing and refrigeration industries.

Hire an established company.  This means checking to make sure they have a proven reputation. The last thing you want to do is work with a company that’s shady and problematic. You can always expect superior workmanship when you turn to R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. for plumbing and  HVAC maintenance  or installation. We’re an Accredited Business with the Better Business Bureau® and maintain an A+ Rating. Complete client satisfaction through exceptional services is one of our top priorities.

Always take experience into account.  Choosing an experienced company like R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc., eliminates the potential for expensive mistakes and callbacks. For over 30 years, we’ve provided homeowners and businesses in New Mexico and Colorado with the highest-quality solutions for their HVAC and plumbing needs. With us handling your project, expect the work to be completed perfectly the first time. No shortcuts and no mistakes–only worry-free workmanship from start to finish.

Whether you need a new HVAC installation or  air duct cleaning  and plumbing repair, look no further than R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. With our top-tier services, we’ll make sure your home remains comfortable and efficient no matter the season. We proudly serve Farmington, NM, and nearby areas. Call us today at (505) 327-7755 or fill out this  contact form  to schedule your consultation. We’d love to hear from you!

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