Mastering Your Home's Auxiliary Heat
When the temperature drops, your heat pump needs a reliable partner. Understand how auxiliary and emergency heat keep you comfortable and how to ensure they are running efficiently.
AUX vs. EMER Heat: What's the Difference?
Auxiliary Heat (AUX)
Auxiliary heat is an automatic supplemental heating stage. It kicks in when the outdoor temperature is too cold for the heat pump to extract enough heat efficiently, or when you raise the thermostat by more than 2-3 degrees quickly.
- check_circle Self-activating support system
- check_circle Uses electric resistance heat strips
- check_circle Normal during extreme cold snaps
Emergency Heat (EMER)
Emergency heat is a manual setting that should only be used if the outdoor unit is malfunctioning (e.g., damaged by a storm or encased in thick ice). It bypasses the heat pump entirely.
- check_circle User-activated for mechanical failure
- check_circle Lockout of the outdoor compressor
- check_circle Very expensive to run long-term
Signs Your System is Running Inefficiently
If your AUX heat light is constantly on even in moderate weather, you're likely overpaying for comfort. Watch for these red flags:
Skyrocketing Utility Bills
Sudden 30-50% increases without a change in weather.
Constant Fan Cycling
The system never seems to reach the set temperature.
Ice Accumulation
Thick ice on the outdoor coils preventing heat exchange.
Backup Heat Maintenance Checklist
Keep your emergency heating elements ready for action with these seasonal checks.
Electrical Connection Audit
High-wattage heat strips can loosen connections over time. We inspect for frayed wiring or scorched terminals to prevent fire hazards.
Sequencer Test
Ensuring each element turns on in the correct order to avoid tripping breakers.
Airflow Scan
Checking for blocked returns that cause overheating in the AUX strips.
Thermostat Sync
Calibrating the 'offset' temperature that triggers AUX mode.
Certified Comfort System Service
Our technicians are certified to handle high-voltage heating systems and refrigerant balance, ensuring your backup heat only runs when it truly needs to.
Don't Get Left in the Cold
If your auxiliary heat is behaving strangely or your bills are spiking, let the experts at Lakeside take a look.
Frequently asked questions
Auxiliary heat, also known as heat strips, is electric backup heating that automatically assists a heat pump during very cold temperatures or defrost cycles.