The term refers to a supplemental heating system that activates when the primary heating source is insufficient to meet the thermostat’s temperature setting. This secondary system provides additional warmth during periods of extreme cold, ensuring consistent and comfortable indoor temperatures. For example, a heat pump might rely on electric resistance heating as a backup when the outside temperature drops below a certain threshold where the heat pump’s efficiency diminishes.
Deployment of a supplemental heating system is crucial for maintaining consistent comfort levels and preventing strain on the primary heating system during peak demand. This can prolong the lifespan of the main heating unit and reduce the likelihood of system failure during critical times. Historically, supplemental heating has evolved from simple wood-burning stoves to sophisticated electric and gas-powered systems, reflecting advancements in heating technology and energy efficiency.
Understanding the necessity and proper operation of a secondary heating mechanism is essential for optimizing energy consumption and maximizing the overall effectiveness of a heating system. The following sections will further explore various aspects related to different types of supplemental heating, their operating principles, and strategies for efficient utilization.
1. Supplemental Heating Engagement
Supplemental heating engagement is the direct manifestation of a heating system’s auxiliary heat component fulfilling its designed purpose. When a primary heating source, such as a heat pump, is unable to maintain the thermostat’s set temperature due to factors like extreme cold, the system’s logic dictates that the auxiliary heat engage. This action provides the additional thermal energy needed to bridge the gap between the primary system’s output and the desired indoor temperature. A real-life example is a heat pump system in a northern climate experiencing sub-freezing temperatures; the heat pump’s efficiency decreases, triggering the activation of electric resistance heating elements to supplement the heat pump’s diminished output. Understanding this relationship is essential for interpreting heating system performance and diagnosing potential issues.
The effectiveness of supplemental heating engagement hinges on several factors, including the correct calibration of temperature thresholds, the capacity of the auxiliary heating source, and the insulation properties of the building. Incorrectly calibrated temperature thresholds can lead to premature or delayed engagement, impacting energy efficiency and comfort. An undersized auxiliary heating source may be insufficient to adequately supplement the primary system during extreme conditions. Moreover, a poorly insulated building will place a greater burden on both the primary and auxiliary heating systems, leading to increased energy consumption. The practical application of this understanding lies in proactive system maintenance and optimization to ensure proper operation and energy conservation.
In summary, supplemental heating engagement signifies the auxiliary heat system’s response to a shortfall in the primary system’s heating capacity. Effective engagement is critical for maintaining thermal comfort, preventing strain on the primary heating system, and optimizing energy efficiency. Challenges often stem from miscalibration, inadequate capacity, or building inefficiencies. Comprehending this relationship is fundamental for anyone involved in the design, installation, maintenance, or operation of heating systems, and its important role in auxiliary heat.
2. Primary System Inadequacy
Primary system inadequacy directly precipitates the activation of auxiliary heat. When the primary heating mechanism, such as a heat pump operating at low ambient temperatures, cannot generate sufficient thermal energy to meet the thermostat’s set point, auxiliary heat is engaged. This engagement is a direct consequence of the primary system’s inability to maintain the desired indoor temperature. For example, if a heat pump’s coefficient of performance drops significantly in freezing weather, it may be unable to provide adequate heating, triggering the electric resistance heating coils to supplement its output. Primary system inadequacy is, therefore, a critical prerequisite for auxiliary heat operation; without it, the supplemental system remains dormant.
The specific reasons for primary system inadequacy are diverse, ranging from equipment limitations and environmental conditions to system malfunctions. Heat pumps, for instance, experience diminished heating capacity as outdoor temperatures decrease. Furnaces may suffer from reduced efficiency due to aging components or inadequate maintenance. A properly functioning system relies on accurately detecting primary system inadequacy and seamlessly transitioning to auxiliary heat. Failure to do so can lead to uncomfortable indoor temperatures and increased energy consumption. This understanding underscores the importance of regular system maintenance and performance monitoring to ensure optimal operation.
In summation, primary system inadequacy is the fundamental trigger for auxiliary heat activation. It represents a deviation from the system’s designed operating parameters, necessitating the deployment of supplemental heating resources. Recognizing the causes and effects of primary system inadequacy is essential for effective HVAC system management, contributing to improved comfort, energy efficiency, and equipment longevity. The operation of auxiliary heat system is the direct reaction to this primary system inadequacy.
3. Electric resistance common
The prevalence of electric resistance heating in auxiliary heat systems stems from its simplicity and relatively low initial cost. Electric resistance heating generates warmth by passing an electric current through a resistive element, converting electrical energy into heat. This direct conversion method avoids complex mechanical processes, making it a straightforward and reliable supplemental heating solution. As such, electric resistance often serves as the auxiliary heat source for heat pumps, engaging when the heat pump’s efficiency declines during periods of low ambient temperature. For instance, a heat pump system in a region with cold winters will typically incorporate electric resistance coils to supplement its heating output, ensuring consistent indoor temperatures even when the outdoor temperature falls below freezing. The design of an auxiliary heat system will almost always included electric resistance.
While electric resistance heating offers simplicity and affordability, its operating efficiency is relatively low compared to other heating methods. Electric resistance heating converts electricity to heat at approximately 100% efficiency, but it does not amplify the heat extracted from an external source, as heat pumps do. This means that for every unit of electricity consumed, one unit of heat is produced. Consequently, systems relying heavily on electric resistance auxiliary heat can incur higher energy costs, particularly in regions with high electricity prices. Understanding this trade-off between initial cost and operating efficiency is crucial when selecting and managing heating systems.
In summary, the common use of electric resistance heating in auxiliary heat systems is driven by its simplicity and low initial investment. However, its lower operating efficiency can lead to higher energy consumption compared to alternative supplemental heating methods. The selection and efficient management of electric resistance auxiliary heat requires careful consideration of energy costs, climate conditions, and system design to balance initial expenses with long-term operational costs. For a heat pump, auxillary heat can be electric resistance.
4. Fossil Fuel Options
The availability of fossil fuel options for auxiliary heat represents a significant consideration in the design and operation of heating systems. While electric resistance is a common supplemental heat source, systems utilizing natural gas, propane, or oil offer alternative approaches to providing auxiliary heating capacity. These fossil fuel-based systems serve the same fundamental purpose: to supplement the primary heating source when it is insufficient to meet the thermostat’s set point.
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Natural Gas Furnaces as Auxiliary Heat
Natural gas furnaces can be integrated as auxiliary heat sources, particularly in dual-fuel systems. In these configurations, a heat pump serves as the primary heating source until outdoor temperatures drop below a predetermined threshold. At that point, the natural gas furnace engages to provide supplemental heating. This approach leverages the heat pump’s efficiency during milder temperatures and the furnace’s higher heating capacity during extreme cold, optimizing energy consumption and cost. For example, a home in the Midwest might utilize a heat pump for heating down to 30F, at which point a natural gas furnace takes over.
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Propane-Powered Auxiliary Heat
Propane offers another fossil fuel option for auxiliary heat, particularly in areas where natural gas is unavailable. Propane-fueled furnaces or space heaters can be integrated as supplemental heating sources. These systems are often employed in rural settings or homes with existing propane infrastructure. Similar to natural gas systems, propane-powered auxiliary heat provides a reliable and high-capacity heating source during periods of peak demand, supplementing the primary heating system to maintain consistent indoor temperatures. An example is a mountain cabin relying on propane for heating, with a wood-burning stove as the primary and a propane furnace as auxiliary.
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Oil-Based Auxiliary Heat Systems
While less common than natural gas or propane, oil-based systems can also serve as auxiliary heat sources. These systems typically involve oil-fired furnaces that engage to supplement a primary heating system during periods of intense cold. Oil-based auxiliary heat systems are most frequently found in older homes or regions where oil is a readily available fuel source. Though they offer a reliable heating solution, oil-based systems often face scrutiny due to environmental concerns and the fluctuating cost of heating oil.
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Dual-Fuel Systems and Economic Considerations
The selection of a specific fossil fuel option for auxiliary heat is often driven by economic considerations. Dual-fuel systems, which combine a heat pump with a fossil fuel-based furnace, are designed to optimize energy costs based on prevailing fuel prices. During periods when electricity is relatively inexpensive, the heat pump operates as the primary heating source. When electricity prices rise or outdoor temperatures drop, the fossil fuel furnace engages, providing a more cost-effective heating solution. This strategy requires careful analysis of fuel prices and system efficiency to maximize savings. A homeowner might choose to use natural gas auxillary heat with a heat pump since natural gas is lower cost than electric in their region.
In summary, fossil fuel options provide viable alternatives for auxiliary heat systems, offering high heating capacity and reliable performance during periods of peak demand. The choice between natural gas, propane, or oil is often influenced by fuel availability, economic factors, and environmental considerations. The goal remains the same: to supplement the primary heating system and maintain consistent indoor temperatures in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
5. Temperature threshold activation
Temperature threshold activation represents a critical determinant in the functionality of auxiliary heat. The predetermined temperature, below which the primary heating system becomes insufficient, directly triggers the engagement of the supplemental heating source. This point acts as the decision-making juncture, dictating when the auxiliary system must contribute additional thermal energy to maintain the desired indoor temperature. A typical example involves heat pump systems, where the coefficient of performance diminishes at lower ambient temperatures. Once the outdoor temperature falls below the established threshold, integrated sensors signal the activation of electric resistance heating coils or a fossil fuel furnace to augment the heat pump’s output. Incorrect calibration of this threshold can lead to inefficient system operation, either engaging auxiliary heat prematurely, increasing energy consumption, or delaying its activation, compromising comfort.
The practical significance of understanding temperature threshold activation lies in optimizing heating system efficiency and performance. Accurately setting and calibrating the threshold ensures that auxiliary heat engages only when genuinely needed, minimizing unnecessary energy expenditure. This process involves considering factors such as the primary heating system’s capacity, the building’s insulation properties, and local climate conditions. Inefficiently insulated buildings, for instance, may require a lower threshold to compensate for heat loss. Furthermore, understanding the temperature threshold allows for more effective troubleshooting of heating system issues. If auxiliary heat is engaging frequently under normal conditions, it could indicate a problem with the primary heating system, such as a refrigerant leak in a heat pump, or an improperly set temperature threshold.
In summary, temperature threshold activation is an essential component governing the operation of auxiliary heat. It dictates when the auxiliary system engages, influencing energy consumption, indoor comfort, and overall system performance. Accurate calibration and ongoing monitoring of this threshold are crucial for ensuring efficient and effective heating system operation. Mismanagement in the activation process is a factor in “what do auxiliary heat mean”.
6. Maintaining set temperature
The central objective of any heating system is maintaining the thermostat’s programmed temperature. Auxiliary heat directly contributes to this objective when the primary heating source is unable to meet the heating demand. In instances of extreme cold or primary system inefficiency, supplemental heating engages to provide the additional thermal energy required to bridge the gap between the primary system’s output and the desired room temperature. The practical consequence of inadequate auxiliary heat capacity is the failure to maintain the set temperature, leading to discomfort. For instance, a heat pump struggling in sub-freezing temperatures may trigger the electric resistance auxiliary heat; however, if those resistance coils are insufficient, the indoor temperature will decline below the thermostat setting.
The performance of auxiliary heat in maintaining set temperatures is closely tied to its design and calibration. Correct sizing of the supplemental heating source relative to the building’s heating load is paramount. Undersized auxiliary heat will fail to adequately supplement the primary system, resulting in temperature fluctuations and compromised comfort. Precise calibration of the temperature threshold for auxiliary heat activation is equally critical; premature or delayed engagement impacts energy efficiency and temperature stability. Modern HVAC systems utilize sophisticated control algorithms to dynamically adjust the auxiliary heat output based on real-time temperature measurements and predicted heating demands. Furthermore, preventative maintenance and regular inspections of the heating system will ensure the system will properly activate the auxillary heat when the set temperature is not met.
In summary, auxiliary heat plays a vital role in maintaining the thermostat’s programmed temperature, particularly during periods when the primary heating system is challenged. Proper sizing, accurate calibration, and responsive control mechanisms are essential for ensuring that auxiliary heat effectively fulfills its purpose. Failure to maintain set temperatures undermines the fundamental goal of the heating system, emphasizing the critical importance of a well-designed and properly functioning auxiliary heat component. The ability to maintain the set temperature is essential to the operation of auxillary heat, and the understanding is essential to “what do auxillary heat mean.”
7. Preventing primary overuse
The function of auxiliary heat extends beyond merely supplementing a struggling primary heating system; it plays a pivotal role in preventing the overuse and potential damage of the primary system. By intelligently engaging to handle peak heating demands, it protects the primary unit from undue strain, prolonging its operational lifespan and reducing the likelihood of costly repairs. Therefore, auxiliary heat is essential to a functioning and healthy HVAC system.
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Extending Heat Pump Lifespan
Heat pumps, for example, experience increased stress and reduced efficiency when operating at very low ambient temperatures. By engaging auxiliary heat during these periods, the heat pump avoids prolonged operation under suboptimal conditions, mitigating wear and tear on its compressor and other critical components. A heat pump in a cold climate engaging electric resistance heating below a certain temperature threshold illustrates this principle, preventing continuous straining of the heat pump.
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Optimizing Furnace Efficiency
Similarly, auxiliary heat can prevent a furnace from operating continuously at maximum capacity, which can lead to overheating and premature component failure. Engaging supplemental heating during peak demand allows the furnace to operate within its designed parameters, maximizing its efficiency and extending its service life. A gas furnace engaging a supplemental electric heater during extreme cold snaps would serve as a good example.
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Reducing Maintenance Frequency
By preventing the primary heating system from being pushed to its limits, auxiliary heat contributes to a lower frequency of required maintenance. Reduced strain on the primary unit translates to fewer breakdowns, fewer component replacements, and a more stable and reliable overall heating system. Regular professional inspection and maintenance are crucial to identify if auxiliary heat is performing this task properly.
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Enhancing Energy Efficiency
While auxiliary heat itself may not always be the most energy-efficient heating source, its strategic use can contribute to overall system efficiency. By preventing the primary system from struggling to meet demand, auxiliary heat ensures that the system operates more consistently within its optimal range, minimizing energy waste and reducing heating costs. Dual-fuel systems, combining a heat pump with a gas furnace, are specifically designed to maximize energy efficiency through strategic auxiliary heat engagement.
In conclusion, the intelligent deployment of auxiliary heat is not merely a supplemental measure but an integral strategy for preserving the operational health and longevity of the primary heating system. By mitigating strain, optimizing efficiency, and reducing maintenance demands, auxiliary heat contributes significantly to the overall cost-effectiveness and reliability of HVAC systems. Therefore, understanding the purpose of preventing primary overuse is important in defining “what do auxiliary heat mean”.
8. Extending system lifespan
The concept of extending system lifespan is fundamentally intertwined with understanding the purpose and effective utilization of auxiliary heat. Auxiliary heat serves as a safeguard, mitigating stress on the primary heating system during peak demand or periods of operational inefficiency. This reduction in strain directly contributes to a longer operational life for the primary unit. For example, a heat pump system relying on electric resistance auxiliary heat during periods of sub-freezing temperatures avoids prolonged operation under conditions that strain the compressor and other critical components. The auxiliary heat, in this context, prevents the primary heat pump from overworking, which subsequently reduces wear and tear, therefore “Extending system lifespan”.
The practical implementation of this understanding involves several key considerations. First, the appropriate sizing and calibration of the auxiliary heat system are crucial. An undersized or poorly calibrated auxiliary system will fail to adequately relieve the primary system, negating the benefits of extended lifespan. Regular maintenance, including inspection of both the primary and auxiliary systems, is equally important. Issues such as refrigerant leaks in heat pumps or faulty burners in furnaces can compromise the primary system’s efficiency, placing undue burden on the auxiliary heat and shortening the overall lifespan of both systems. Dual-fuel systems, which combine a heat pump with a gas furnace, represent a sophisticated approach to maximizing efficiency and extending system lifespan. These systems are designed to strategically switch between the heat pump and the furnace based on temperature and energy costs, optimizing performance and minimizing wear on either unit.
In conclusion, extending system lifespan is a direct consequence of the proper implementation and operation of auxiliary heat. By preventing primary system overuse, mitigating strain during peak demand, and facilitating optimized energy usage, auxiliary heat plays a vital role in preserving the operational health and longevity of heating systems. Acknowledging and addressing the role of auxiliary heat in system longevity is therefore an essential part of understanding “what do auxiliary heat mean”.
9. Enhancing overall comfort
The strategic deployment of supplemental heat directly correlates with enhanced indoor comfort levels. This secondary heat source ensures consistent temperatures, particularly when the primary heating mechanism is challenged by extreme weather conditions or operational limitations. The correlation is evident in the operational definition of auxiliary heat; it activates precisely when comfort is compromised.
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Eliminating Temperature Fluctuations
Supplemental heating mitigates temperature variations by seamlessly providing additional warmth when the primary system struggles. A heat pump, for example, may experience diminished capacity during sub-freezing temperatures. The auxiliary heating engages to maintain a consistent indoor temperature, preventing noticeable dips that compromise comfort. This consistent temperature is paramount to answering “what do auxiliary heat mean”.
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Addressing Uneven Heating
In larger homes or buildings with varying insulation levels, some areas may experience colder temperatures than others. Auxiliary heat systems can be strategically deployed to address these uneven heating issues. Supplemental space heaters or zoned heating systems can provide targeted warmth, ensuring that all areas of the building maintain a comfortable temperature. A room above a garage might need auxillary heat more than other zones, and addresses any “what do auxiliary heat mean” questions.
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Maintaining Humidity Levels
Some auxiliary heating systems, particularly those utilizing fossil fuels, can impact indoor humidity levels. While maintaining a comfortable temperature is paramount, appropriate humidity control is also essential for overall comfort. Integrating humidifiers or dehumidifiers can help maintain optimal indoor humidity levels, complementing the temperature regulation provided by auxiliary heat and impacting the answer to “what do auxiliary heat mean”.
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Providing Immediate Warmth
During initial system startup or after setbacks, auxiliary heat can provide a rapid boost to indoor temperatures. Electric resistance heating, for instance, delivers nearly instantaneous warmth, quickly raising the temperature to the desired level. This rapid response is particularly beneficial in situations where immediate comfort is desired, such as after returning home on a cold day. Having a blast of quick heat is answering “what do auxiliary heat mean” for many homeowners.
The combined effect of these factors demonstrates the crucial role of auxiliary heat in enhancing overall indoor comfort. By mitigating temperature fluctuations, addressing uneven heating, maintaining humidity levels, and providing immediate warmth, auxiliary heating systems ensure that the indoor environment remains comfortable, regardless of external conditions or primary system limitations. The understanding of what each role plays is important in defining “what do auxiliary heat mean”.
Frequently Asked Questions about Auxiliary Heat
The following questions and answers address common inquiries regarding the nature, function, and operation of auxiliary heat systems. These are designed to clarify the purpose and importance of auxiliary heat in maintaining optimal indoor climate control.
Question 1: What precisely constitutes “auxiliary heat” in a residential heating system?
Auxiliary heat refers to a supplemental heating system that engages when the primary heating source is unable to meet the thermostat’s set temperature. This secondary system provides additional thermal energy during periods of extreme cold or when the primary system experiences operational limitations.
Question 2: Under what circumstances does auxiliary heat typically activate?
Auxiliary heat is most commonly activated when the primary heating system’s output is insufficient to maintain the desired indoor temperature. This often occurs during periods of very low outdoor temperatures, when the primary system’s efficiency decreases, or in instances of system malfunction.
Question 3: Is the operation of auxiliary heat always indicative of a problem with the primary heating system?
Not necessarily. While frequent or prolonged auxiliary heat operation can signal an issue with the primary system, such as reduced refrigerant in a heat pump, it is also normal for auxiliary heat to engage during periods of extreme cold when the primary system is simply operating at its designed capacity limit.
Question 4: What are the most common types of auxiliary heat systems encountered in residential settings?
The most prevalent type of auxiliary heat is electric resistance heating, often utilizing heating coils or strips. Fossil fuel-based systems, such as natural gas or propane furnaces, are also employed as auxiliary heat sources, particularly in dual-fuel heating systems.
Question 5: Can the temperature threshold for auxiliary heat activation be adjusted, and if so, what are the implications?
The temperature threshold, which dictates when auxiliary heat engages, is adjustable on most modern thermostats. Lowering the threshold will cause auxiliary heat to activate more frequently, potentially increasing energy consumption. Raising the threshold will delay auxiliary heat engagement, potentially compromising indoor comfort during cold snaps.
Question 6: How can homeowners optimize the use of auxiliary heat to minimize energy consumption without sacrificing comfort?
Homeowners can optimize auxiliary heat usage by ensuring the primary heating system is well-maintained and operating efficiently. Sealing air leaks, improving insulation, and regularly servicing the primary system can reduce the reliance on auxiliary heat. Furthermore, intelligently programming the thermostat to lower temperatures during unoccupied periods can minimize energy waste.
In summary, auxiliary heat plays a crucial role in maintaining consistent indoor temperatures and preventing undue strain on the primary heating system. Understanding its function and proper operation is essential for optimizing energy efficiency and ensuring reliable heating system performance.
Auxiliary Heat Optimization Tips
Strategic management of supplemental heating is essential for efficient and cost-effective climate control. The following tips provide actionable guidance for optimizing auxiliary heat utilization.
Tip 1: Understand Activation Parameters: Familiarize yourself with the temperature threshold at which auxiliary heat engages. Monitoring this setting and adjusting it, if possible, to align with specific comfort needs can prevent premature activation and reduce energy waste.
Tip 2: Prioritize Primary System Maintenance: Regular maintenance of the primary heating system, such as cleaning coils, replacing filters, and checking refrigerant levels, is critical. An efficient primary system minimizes the need for supplemental heating, thereby lowering energy consumption.
Tip 3: Assess Building Insulation: Inadequate insulation forces heating systems to work harder. Inspecting and upgrading insulation in attics, walls, and crawl spaces reduces heat loss, decreasing the reliance on auxiliary heat during cold periods.
Tip 4: Seal Air Leaks: Air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings compromise heating efficiency. Sealing these leaks with caulk or weather stripping prevents heat from escaping, reducing the need for supplemental warmth.
Tip 5: Employ Smart Thermostat Programming: Program the thermostat to lower the temperature during periods of absence. This proactive approach reduces energy waste and minimizes the workload of both the primary and auxiliary heating systems.
Tip 6: Monitor Auxiliary Heat Usage: Track how frequently auxiliary heat engages. Frequent activation under normal conditions may indicate an issue with the primary system or an improperly calibrated temperature threshold requiring professional attention.
Tip 7: Consider Professional Evaluation: Consult a qualified HVAC technician for a comprehensive system evaluation. A professional assessment can identify inefficiencies and recommend solutions to optimize heating performance and minimize auxiliary heat usage.
Implementing these strategies can substantially reduce energy consumption associated with auxiliary heat while maintaining desired comfort levels. Consistent attention to these practices ensures efficient and cost-effective climate control.
Adhering to these guidelines contributes to a more sustainable and economically sound approach to residential heating management, as it relates to “what do auxiliary heat mean”.
Auxiliary Heat Defined
The preceding exploration has elucidated the meaning of auxiliary heat as a supplemental heating system, designed to augment a primary system when it is insufficient to meet thermal demands. Understanding its functionality, activation parameters, and optimization strategies is critical for efficient climate control and prolonged HVAC system lifespan. Auxiliary heat, therefore, is not merely a backup but an integral component of a comprehensive heating strategy.
Recognizing the importance of auxiliary heat allows for proactive management of energy consumption and system maintenance. Continued advancements in HVAC technology will likely refine auxiliary heating systems, further enhancing their efficiency and integration with smart home technologies. Vigilant monitoring and informed decision-making are essential to harnessing the full potential of supplemental heating for sustained comfort and cost savings.
