What Is Emergency Heat on a Heat Pump?
Emergency heat on a heat pump (often labeled EM or AUX heat) is a backup heating mode that uses electric heat strips or a furnace to warm your home when the heat pump alone cannot keep up or has stopped working.
When to Use Emergency Heat
- When your heat pump has failed or is frozen and needs repair
- In rare, extreme cold when the heat pump cannot maintain temperature
- Not as a routine everyday heating setting
Why Emergency Heat Costs More
Emergency heat relies on electric resistance strips, which use significantly more energy than the heat pump's normal operation. Running it for long periods will noticeably raise your electric bill.
When Emergency Heat Signals a Problem
If your system runs constantly on emergency heat, something is usually wrong. Have a technician check it. Explore our heating repair services and Trane heat pumps, or schedule service or call (972) 288-2263.
Heat Pump Emergency Heat FAQ
What is emergency heat on a heat pump?
Emergency heat (EM or AUX) is a backup mode using electric heat strips or a furnace to warm your home when the heat pump alone cannot keep up or has failed.
When should I use emergency heat?
Use it only when your heat pump is not working or during rare extreme cold, not as a routine everyday setting.
Does emergency heat cost more to run?
Yes. Electric resistance heat uses much more energy than normal heat pump operation, so it raises your electric bill.
Is it bad if my heat pump runs on emergency heat?
Running constantly on emergency heat usually indicates a problem with the heat pump and should be checked by a technician.
Who can service my heat pump in Dallas-Fort Worth?
Xtreme Air Services installs, repairs, and maintains heat pumps throughout Dallas-Fort Worth.
