Auxiliary heating systems provide supplemental warmth when a heat pump struggles to meet the thermostat setting during periods of very cold weather. This system, often electric resistance heat, activates to bridge the gap between the heat pump’s output and the desired indoor temperature. This ensures the internal environment remains comfortable even when the primary heating source is insufficient. For example, during a severe cold snap, the heat pump may not be able to raise the indoor temperature quickly enough. The supplemental system will then activate to assist and maintain the desired level of warmth.
The implementation of this supplemental heating functionality is crucial for maintaining consistent indoor temperatures and preventing discomfort during extreme weather conditions. Its availability provides a safeguard against the limitations of heat pumps in intensely cold environments, ensuring the occupants of a building or home are not left without adequate heating. Historically, systems relied solely on less efficient and more costly methods like electric resistance heat as the primary source. Combining heat pumps with auxiliary heating offers an energy-efficient solution for most of the heating season, while still providing backup during peak demand.