When Do You Use Emergency Heat on Thermostat? Discover the Surprising Answer!
What To Know
- It’s typically used when your primary heating system, often a furnace or heat pump, malfunctions or is unable to provide adequate heat.
- Unlike your primary heating system, which might use natural gas, propane, or a heat pump, emergency heat relies solely on electricity.
- Switching to emergency heat is as simple as turning a dial or pressing a button on your thermostat.
The “Emergency Heat” setting on your thermostat might seem like a mysterious button, especially if you’ve never had to use it before. But, understanding when and why you might need to use it can be crucial for keeping your home comfortable and preventing potential problems with your heating system. This guide will delve into the details of emergency heat, explaining its purpose, when to use it, and potential drawbacks.
What is Emergency Heat?
Emergency heat is a backup heating system that uses electric resistance coils to warm your home. It’s typically used when your primary heating system, often a furnace or heat pump, malfunctions or is unable to provide adequate heat. Unlike your primary heating system, which might use natural gas, propane, or a heat pump, emergency heat relies solely on electricity.
Why Use Emergency Heat?
Here are some common reasons why you might need to use emergency heat:
- Furnace Malfunction: If your furnace breaks down, emergency heat can provide temporary warmth until you can get it repaired.
- Heat Pump Failure: Heat pumps are less effective in extremely cold temperatures. If your heat pump can’t keep up, switching to emergency heat can help maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Power Outages: If you lose power, emergency heat can still function as long as you have electricity.
- Cold Weather: In extremely cold temperatures, your primary heating system might struggle to keep up with the demand. Using emergency heat can help supplement your main system and prevent your home from becoming too cold.
How Does Emergency Heat Work?
Emergency heat uses electric resistance coils to generate heat. These coils are located in your furnace or heat pump’s air handler and are activated when you switch your thermostat to the “Emergency Heat” setting. The coils heat up the air passing through them, which is then distributed throughout your home.
Pros and Cons of Using Emergency Heat
Pros:
- Provides Temporary Warmth: Emergency heat can provide immediate warmth in emergencies or when your primary heating system isn’t working properly.
- Simple to Use: Switching to emergency heat is as simple as turning a dial or pressing a button on your thermostat.
- Reliable: Electric resistance coils are relatively simple and reliable, ensuring warmth even when your primary heating system fails.
Cons:
- High Energy Costs: Emergency heat uses significantly more electricity than your primary heating system, resulting in higher energy bills.
- Can Dry Out Air: Emergency heat can dry out the air in your home, leading to discomfort and potential respiratory issues.
- Not Ideal for Long-Term Use: Emergency heat is meant for short-term use and is not a sustainable solution for long-term heating needs.
When to Use Emergency Heat
Use emergency heat only as a temporary solution in the following situations:
- Your Furnace or Heat Pump is Not Working: If your primary heating system is malfunctioning, emergency heat can provide temporary warmth until you can get it repaired.
- Extremely Cold Temperatures: If your primary heating system is struggling to keep up with the cold weather, emergency heat can help supplement it.
- Power Outages: If you lose power, emergency heat can provide warmth as long as you have electricity.
When to Avoid Emergency Heat
Avoid using emergency heat in the following situations:
- As a Primary Heating Source: Emergency heat is not designed for long-term use and can lead to significantly higher energy bills.
- If You Can’t Afford the Increased Energy Costs: Emergency heat can be very expensive to run. If you’re on a tight budget, consider other options like wearing layers or using space heaters.
- If You Have Respiratory Issues: The dry air produced by emergency heat can worsen respiratory problems.
How to Use Emergency Heat Safely
Here are some tips for using emergency heat safely:
- Only Use It When Necessary: Avoid using emergency heat unless your primary heating system is not working properly.
- Keep It Short-Term: Emergency heat is not meant for long-term use. Get your primary heating system repaired as soon as possible.
- Be Aware of Fire Hazards: Make sure to keep flammable materials away from heating elements.
- Monitor Your Energy Usage: Be aware of how much energy you’re using and adjust your thermostat accordingly to minimize costs.
- Consider Using a Humidifier: If the air in your home becomes too dry, use a humidifier to add moisture.
The Importance of Maintenance
The best way to avoid needing emergency heat is to maintain your primary heating system regularly. This includes:
- Annual Inspections: Have your furnace or heat pump inspected annually by a qualified technician.
- Cleaning: Clean your furnace or heat pump’s air filters regularly.
- Repairing Issues Promptly: If you notice any problems with your heating system, have them repaired right away.
Moving Beyond Emergency Heat: Long-Term Solutions
If you find yourself frequently relying on emergency heat, it might be time to consider a more sustainable solution. Here are some options:
- Upgrade Your Heating System: Consider upgrading your furnace or heat pump to a more efficient model.
- Insulate Your Home: Proper insulation can help reduce heat loss and make your home more energy-efficient.
- Seal Air Leaks: Seal any air leaks around windows, doors, and other areas of your home to prevent drafts.
Navigating Your Way to Comfort
Understanding when and how to use emergency heat can help you keep your home comfortable during unexpected heating system issues. Remember, it’s a temporary solution and should be used sparingly to avoid high energy costs and potential health concerns. By maintaining your heating system properly and considering long-term solutions, you can ensure a warm and comfortable home throughout the year.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: How much does it cost to use emergency heat?
A: Emergency heat can be significantly more expensive than your primary heating system. You can expect to see a substantial increase in your energy bills when using emergency heat.
Q: Can I use emergency heat for a long time?
A: Emergency heat is designed for short-term use. Using it for extended periods will result in high energy costs and can potentially damage your heating system.
Q: What should I do if my furnace breaks down and I need to use emergency heat?
A: Contact a qualified HVAC technician immediately to diagnose and repair the issue. In the meantime, use emergency heat as a temporary solution.
Q: Is it safe to use emergency heat with pets and children?
A: Always exercise caution when using emergency heat around pets and children. Keep flammable materials away from heating elements and supervise children closely.
Q: What are some other options for staying warm during a power outage besides emergency heat?
A: Consider using space heaters, dressing in layers, and gathering in one room to conserve heat. Make sure to use space heaters safely and never leave them unattended.