If you own a heat pump system, you may have noticed the term Aux Heat appear on your thermostat from time to time. Many homeowners are unsure what it means and whether it signals a problem or higher energy costs. Understanding how auxiliary heat works can help you manage your heating system more effectively during cooler weather and avoid unnecessary energy use.
What Is Auxiliary Heat
Auxiliary heat, often displayed as Aux Heat, functions as a supplemental heating source that supports your heat pump when outdoor temperatures drop too low for the system to extract sufficient heat. It acts as a built-in backup, helping the system maintain comfortable indoor temperatures when the heat pump alone cannot keep up. While winters are milder in Florida, cooler nights can still activate this feature.
When and Why Auxiliary Heat Activates
Auxiliary heat typically activates under certain conditions. The most common is when outdoor temperatures fall to a point where the heat pump becomes less efficient, often around 30 degrees. Aux Heat may also turn on during the heat pump’s defrost cycle to prevent cool air from entering your home or when the thermostat is raised several degrees at once, causing a sudden demand for heat.
This mode uses more energy because it relies on electric resistance heating, which is effective but less efficient than standard heat pump operation.
Distinguishing Between Auxiliary Heat and Emergency Heat
Auxiliary heat and emergency heat are not the same. Auxiliary heat works automatically alongside the heat pump when additional warmth is needed. Emergency heat is a manual setting used when the heat pump is not functioning properly or when extreme weather prevents it from operating. Relying on emergency heat for long periods can significantly increase energy costs.
Optimizing Your Heat Pump for Efficiency
There are several steps homeowners can take to reduce unnecessary use of auxiliary heat. Improving home insulation and sealing air leaks helps minimize heat loss. Routine maintenance ensures the heat pump operates efficiently and prevents issues that force it to rely on Aux Heat more often. Programmable thermostats can keep temperatures consistent and reduce sudden heating demands that trigger auxiliary heating.
Connect With a Carrier Dealer on Auxiliary Heat
Understanding when and how auxiliary heat should operate can be complex. A trusted local Carrier dealer can evaluate your system, answer questions, and recommend maintenance steps to improve performance. For personalized guidance and professional service, reach out to Dittmer Air Conditioning & Heating in Cocoa, FL.
Ready for a Comfort and Efficiency Check
If you want to improve heating efficiency or prepare your system for cooler weather in Cocoa, FL, Dittmer Air Conditioning & Heating is ready to help. Our experienced team can inspect your heat pump, identify areas for improvement, and ensure your auxiliary heat operates only when necessary. Call us at (321) 637-0170 or complete our online form to schedule your service today.
