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That’s exactly what the auxiliary heating setting does for your home’s heat pump system. Basically, if your heat pump is struggling to maintain its goal temperature, your aux heat will turn on and give your heat pump a boost. Aux heat will kick on when your heat pump cannot deliver enough warmth to heat your home.
Why does thermostat say aux heat?
When you see the “aux” heat indicator on your thermostat it means your heat pump needed some help reaching the desired temperature. It turns on automatically when the temperature falls about two degrees below the desired setting and turns off automatically when the target temperature is reached.
Is it normal for AUX heat to come on?
It’s normal for AUX heat to turn on when your heat pump needs to heat the home quickly. If you’re feeling chilly in the morning, for example, the secondary heat system can help to warm you up. This system turns on automatically, so don’t be surprised if it comes on during the night.
Is auxiliary heat more expensive?
Auxiliary heat can handle more extreme temperatures since it uses electric heat strips. What this means, unfortunately, is that it’s more expensive than the conventional heat provided by a heat pump. While a gas furnace is not as efficient as a heat pump, it is more efficient than a heat pump using auxiliary heat.
When should AUX heat be used?
What is Auxiliary Heat on a Thermostat? When the temperature inside your home drops about two or three degrees below the temperature the thermostat is set to, auxiliary heating kicks on to help warm your home more quickly.
What does AUX cool mean on thermostat?
“Aux” is short for auxiliary heat. If a heat pump is having a difficult time coming up to a certain temperature quickly due to extremely cold outdoor temperatures, the “aux heat” indicator means that a secondary heat source (generally gas or electric) has been deployed.
How do you turn off AUX heat?
As the temperature drops two to three degrees below the set temperature, many systems will signal for the auxiliary heat to come on. The easiest way to stop the auxiliary heat from coming on is making sure the temperature doesn’t drop too fast. This shouldn’t take much longer than 30 minutes.
Does AUX heat use more electricity?
Auxiliary heat uses electric resistance heating, which is much less efficient than your heat pump. Therefore, a heating system stuck in AUX heat will run up an energy bill. If you have a heat pump, it is best to increase your heat setting by only two degrees at a time to prevent your auxiliary heat from operating.
Why is my heat not shutting off?
One of the most common issues is the thermostat. The wiring, switches, or heating sensors can fail on your unit. A faulty check valve could be the cause of this type of heating system to fail. If your heating system will not shut down, then you need to call a professional technician for help.
Why is my heat pump blowing cold air when the heat is on?
Your Heat Pump May Be In Defrost Mode As heat is released through the outdoor unit, it melts ice formations that would have been difficult or damaging to remove manually. Defrost mode is essentially the same as cooling mode, therefore it is likely your heat pump will blow cool air while in this mode.
How do I turn off auxiliary heat on my nest?
Go to SETTINGS > NEST SENSE (which is the 4th setting from the left). Select “Heat Pump Balance”. Choose “OFF”.
How long can you run auxiliary heat?
By default, this time is set to five minutes. This means, if your aux heat is called upon and canceled immediately, it will still run for five minutes before shutting down. If you change the threshold settings, you can configure the minimum on time and save on electricity or heating oil.
Should heat pump and AUX heat run simultaneously?
Allow Heat Pump/Auxiliary Heat to Run Simultaneously: If you select Yes and there is a source of auxiliary heat, both auxiliary heat and heat pump will turn on. The heat pump will be energized for the first 30 minutes.
Will my heat pump automatically switch emergency heat?
The heat pump setting’s emergency heat will usually switch on and off automatically during brief periods when the outside air gets too cold. Your heating system will then use the secondary system with your normal heating. The system will bypass the main heat pump and be forced into auxiliary mode.
What does AUX cool mean?
If you do not have a multi-stage heating or cooling system then AUX being displayed means that a multi-stage thermostat was installed on your single stage system and you will occasionally see AUX displayed on the screen or the green AUX light illuminated (some models), however it does not affect the function of your.
What temperature should I set my heat pump in the winter?
Ideal Winter Heat Pump Temperature Settings According to the Department of Energy, 68°F is the sweet spot that balances comfort and energy efficiency during the fall and winter months. When your home is occupied and when family members are awake, a heat pump setting of 68°F keeps the living areas reasonably warm.
