Key Takeaways
- Emergency heat is a supplemental heating mode designed for times when the heat pump cannot produce enough heat, such as in extreme cold or if the heat pump breaks down.
- Only use emergency heat when required, as it usually operates on electric resistance or a backup fuel source and is more expensive to operate.
- Verify through your thermostat and system manual when and how to switch to and from emergency heat and how to avoid running it by mistake.
- If you find yourself relying on emergency heat frequently, it might be time for a professional HVAC inspection to identify problems with your heat pump or controls.
- So when you do use emergency heat, crank up the indoor setpoint as little as possible and put on a sweater so you don’t waste energy and increase your utility bill.
- Maintain handy, readable notes of your system settings and emergency methods so any member of the household can operate the thermostat.
When the thermostat is on emergency heat, it is a backup mode that engages auxiliary heating when the main heat pump cannot warm a space.
It operates electric or fossil fuel backup heat to keep the house warm in extremely cold weather or when the system fails.
Its use is limited as it uses more energy and costs more to run.
Some thermostats indicate when emergency heat kicks in with a light or message on the display to keep the user aware.
Conclusion
Emergency heat keeps your home warm when the heat pump can’t. It activates the backup heater and increases the room temperature more quickly in very cold weather or in the event of a pump failure. Use it briefly. Consult the thermostat manual and your system label. Monitor energy consumption, as the emergency heat consumes more energy. Record a date and reason every time you turn it on. Call a pro for repeated use or strange noises. Quick test: flip to emergency heat for five minutes, then back and see if there’s any change. Maintain clean filters and get service every year to reduce your emergency heat requirement. Try these steps and keep score to stay safe and save energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the emergency heat setting do on a thermostat?
Emergency heat runs your backup heating source, usually electric or oil, instead of the heat pump. It maintains your home warm when the heat pump is unable to generate enough heat or is inoperable.
When should I use emergency heat?
Use it when the heat pump fails, is iced over, or outdoor temperatures dip below the heat pump’s effective range. Call a tech if it runs long term.
Will emergency heat cost more to run?
Yes. Emergency heat is less efficient and more expensive than a heat pump. Anticipate high bills while it is on.
Can I leave the thermostat on emergency heat all winter?
Emergency heat is a quick fix. Beyond that, it drives up your costs and can be a sign that your heat pump has an issue that requires a repair technician.
How do I switch off emergency heat?
Turn your thermostat mode from “EMER” or “E-HEAT” to “AUTO” or “HEAT.” If it won’t switch, call a professional HVAC technician.
What if the thermostat shows emergency heat but the heat pump works?
This can mean a wiring or sensor problem. Have a licensed HVAC technician look at your system and find and fix control or wiring issues.
Is emergency heat the same as auxiliary heat?
Not necessarily. Auxiliary heat can run with the heat pump automatically during extreme cold weather. Emergency heat is manually selected and overrides the backup only.