Whether you’re programming your thermostat for the first time or making seasonal adjustments, the setting for EM heat will undoubtedly catch your attention. This emergency heat setting benefits you when the temperature outside plummets, but there is more to it. What should you know before selecting this setting?
Key Takeaways:
- The emergency heat setting on your thermostat activates an auxiliary heat source when needed.
- While this setting can be activated automatically or manually, it should only be used when the primary heat source fails.
- The emergency setting is essential when your heat pump breaks, when it’s severely cold outside and during a power outage.
What Is EM Heat?
Your thermostat controls perhaps the most expensive appliance in your home. Your HVAC system serves as more than a comfort feature at times. During extreme temperatures, it also safeguards your health and well-being. Because of this, making random selections on your thermostat without knowing what they do is not advisable.
Your HVAC system has a backup heating system. When the primary heating source, which is typically the heat pump, fails, the emergency heating system is used.
In northern climates where sub-freezing temperatures are common daily throughout the winter months, backup heat is used when the primary heat source cannot keep up with the home’s needs. In Florida, however, the secondary heat source is generally only used when the primary heat source is not available.
How EM Heat Works
Often, an HVAC system’s main heat pump is located outdoors while the backup heating system is inside the home. Your HVAC system automatically triggers the use of emergency heat when certain triggers are present. This may be when frost builds up on the outdoor coils, when the pump malfunctions and when the primary source of heat is insufficient.
The emergency heating setting does not need to be manually selected. When you make the selection manually, such as if you’re curious about how it works, you are switching off the primary source of heat. Your HVAC system will then only draw from the auxiliary heat source.
When to Use EM Heat
The EM heat setting should switch on automatically when needed. However, there may be instances when you want to turn it on manually. These are among the main instances when you should choose the emergency heating setting.
When It’s Extremely Cold Outside
While Florida winters are known for being mild, bitter cold snaps happen from time to time. During cold weather, your HVAC system’s heat pump should defrost when the heater operates. However, when the pump is frozen and cannot defrost, the EM heat setting should be used to keep your home warm and comfortable.
When Your Heat Pump Is Malfunctioning
Heat pumps break down for many reasons. These include dirty coils, electrical problems, refrigerant leaks and even clogged filters. When the pump is not functional, your HVAC system must draw on an auxiliary heat source to keep your home warm.
If your heater stopped working or is no longer as effective as you need it to be, scheduling repair service is essential. Rest assured that we are always on time, or you don’t pay a dime. While you wait, your emergency heating setting can provide essential warmth.
During a Power Outage (with Backup Power)
A power outage, such as due to an ice storm, doesn’t mean that you need to be without heat. If your home has a backup power source, you can rely on the EM heat setting to warm your home. The backup power source is necessary for the auxiliary heating system to operate.
How to Use EM Heat Efficiently
The emergency heat setting is not as efficient at heating your home as your heat pump is. Because of this, you should only use this setting when it is critically necessary. If you notice the setting has turned on automatically and do not feel that it is needed, you can manually turn the setting off.
You understandably do not want to use this heat source for longer than necessary. Professional diagnostic and repair service will get your primary heat source functional again without delay.
Why Choose One Hour Tampa
One Hour Tampa is your reliable source for quick service and guaranteed results. Each service that we complete is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee for two years.
Whether you need thermostat service, heat pump service or other HVAC services, we are ready to answer your call. You won’t wait long for help to arrive. We’re always on time or you don’t pay a dime.
Schedule Service Today
If you are struggling to keep your home warm or if you are having other HVAC service problems, we are here to help. Schedule service with One Hour Tampa today.