Emergency heat, that seemingly lifesaver on a frigid winter night when your regular heating system fails, comes with its own set of drawbacks. While it provides temporary warmth, relying on it for extended periods or using it improperly can lead to significant issues. Let's explore the downsides in detail.
What is Emergency Heat?
Before diving into the drawbacks, it's crucial to understand what emergency heat is. Most heat pumps have a secondary electric heating element that kicks in when the outdoor temperature drops too low for the heat pump to operate efficiently. This electric resistance heating is your "emergency heat." It's a backup system, designed for short-term use, not continuous operation.
High Energy Costs: The Biggest Drawback
This is the most significant drawback. Emergency heat uses electricity directly to generate heat, unlike a heat pump which moves heat from outside to inside. Electric resistance heating is incredibly energy-intensive and therefore significantly more expensive to operate than your primary heating system. Expect a substantial spike in your energy bill if you rely on emergency heat for extended periods. You might even see your energy bill double or triple!
How much more expensive is emergency heat?
The exact cost difference varies depending on your electricity rates and the size of your heating system. However, it’s generally accepted that emergency heat can be 3-4 times more expensive than your heat pump's normal operation. This means that while it might seem like a simple solution for a quick fix, prolonged use can quickly become a very costly one.
Potential for Overheating and Damage
Continuous use of emergency heat can lead to overheating of the system and potentially damage components. The system wasn’t designed for constant, high-output operation and the strain can lead to premature failure, requiring expensive repairs or replacements.
Reduced Comfort: Uneven Heating
Unlike a properly functioning heat pump or furnace, emergency heat often provides uneven heating. Some areas of your home might be significantly warmer than others, leading to discomfort. This uneven distribution is due to the way electric resistance heating elements work, often resulting in hot spots and cold spots.
Increased Risk of Fire Hazards
While rare, prolonged use of emergency heat, especially if there are underlying issues with your electrical system or wiring, increases the risk of fire hazards. Overheating components can become ignition sources, particularly if dust or debris accumulates around them. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to mitigate this risk.
Environmental Impact
The high energy consumption associated with emergency heat contributes to a larger carbon footprint. Burning more electricity directly impacts greenhouse gas emissions, negatively affecting the environment.
What to Do if Your Regular Heating System Malfunctions?
Instead of relying solely on emergency heat, contact a qualified HVAC technician immediately to diagnose and repair the problem with your primary heating system. Emergency heat is a temporary solution, not a long-term fix. Ignoring a malfunctioning heating system can lead to more extensive, and costly, damage down the line.
Is there a way to make emergency heat more efficient?
While you can't fundamentally change how electric resistance heating works, you can take steps to minimize its impact. These include:
- Lowering the thermostat: Even a few degrees can make a significant difference in energy consumption.
- Closing off unused rooms: This helps to concentrate heat where it's needed.
- Addressing drafts: Properly sealing windows and doors can improve overall efficiency.
However, these measures are only helpful for short-term use; they are not solutions for continuous reliance on emergency heat.
In conclusion, while emergency heat serves its purpose in short bursts, its high energy costs, potential for damage, and environmental impact make it a less-than-ideal long-term solution. Always address the underlying cause of your heating system failure promptly and avoid prolonged reliance on this costly backup system.
