DUAL FUEL
A dual fuel system is an electric heat pump and a gas furnace in one system. In middle tennessee, where temperatures are typically above freezing, a heat pump is the most efficient way to heat your home. When temperatures drop below freezing, a gas furnace provides heat more economically. By combining the two, you can have the benefits of both systems.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both the heat pump and the gas unit. A dual fuel system eliminates the disadvantages by giving you the best of both worlds. The dual fuel system is the most efficient and economical heating-and-cooling system you can buy.
The amount you will save in the next 2-3 years from lower heating cost will more than make up for the difference you will spend on a better system.
Seer Ratings
SEER = Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio
The seer rating on a unit is its efficiency rating. The higher the seer number the more efficient the system, and the more money you will save on your energy bills.
The minimum seer rating is 13. To be considered high-effiency, the seer rating must be at least 14.
R22 refrigerant will be phased out by 2010 and R410A will be the new refrigerant.
R22 vs. R410A
What makes R410A a better refrigerant?
- It is environmentally friendlier. If your system ever leaks, the escaping refrigerant won't contribute to ozone depletion!
- You avoid the risk that R22 could become expensive or difficult to get when your system needs to be repaired in a few years.
- R410A systems can be more reliable than R22 systems.
- Newer R410A systems have smaller, heavier-duty compressors that are quieter and operate with less vibration than the older R22 systems.
- Compressors with R410A run cooler, reducing the risk of burnout due to overheating.
- It uses a synthetic lubricant to keep the system operating smoothly.