Dual-fuel System
Dual-fuel System | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Monterey
Discover a smarter way to stay comfortable in Monterey with HEP’s dual-fuel system—a perfectly balanced pairing of an electric heat pump and a high-efficiency gas furnace that automatically selects the most economical energy source for the season. You’ll enjoy whisper-quiet cooling during our mild coastal summers, reliable heat when the fog rolls in, and utility bills that finally make sense. Our NATE-certified technicians size, install, and fine-tune every system to the unique demands of your home, so you can breathe easy knowing the job was done right the first time.
If your aging equipment is draining your wallet or struggling to keep up, schedule an HVAC unit replacement with HEP and feel the difference immediately. We streamline the entire process—from free in-home analysis and clear, upfront pricing to flexible financing and ongoing maintenance—because upgrading your comfort should be effortless. Let us show you how a dual-fuel system can deliver year-round efficiency, lasting reliability, and that perfect Monterey climate right inside your living room.
FAQs
1. What exactly is a dual-fuel HVAC system and how does it work?
A dual-fuel HVAC system combines a high-efficiency electric heat pump with a clean-burning gas furnace. In cooling mode, the heat pump operates just like a conventional air conditioner, extracting heat from your home and releasing it outdoors. In heating mode, the system automatically chooses the most economical fuel source based on outdoor temperature: the heat pump handles mild-weather heating, and the gas furnace takes over when the temperature drops below a preset balance point (typically 35–40 °F). A smart control board and outdoor temperature sensor coordinate the switchover, so you always get optimal comfort at the lowest possible operating cost.
2. Why is a dual-fuel replacement a good choice for homes in Monterey?
Monterey’s coastal climate is characterized by cool summers, mild winters, and high humidity from marine layers. For much of the year, outdoor temperatures hover in the 40–65 °F range—ideal for efficient heat-pump operation. A dual-fuel setup lets the heat pump cover 70–90 % of annual heating hours at very low electricity costs, while the gas furnace stands ready for the occasional colder snap that can roll in from the Salinas Valley or Santa Lucia Range. Homeowners enjoy year-round comfort, reduced greenhouse-gas emissions, and lower utility bills compared with a straight gas furnace or electric resistance heat.
3. How do I know what size dual-fuel system my home needs?
Proper sizing requires a Manual J load calculation that factors in Monterey’s specific design temperatures (68 °F cooling / 36 °F heating), your home’s square footage, insulation levels, window types, solar gain, and airtightness. During a free in-home assessment, our NATE-certified technician measures each room, inspects ductwork, and inputs the data into ACCA-approved software. The result determines the correct tonnage for the heat pump and BTU rating for the gas furnace—often 2–3 tons and 40–60 kBTU for an average 1,800 sq ft Monterey residence. Oversizing leads to short cycling and humidity issues, while undersizing sacrifices comfort and equipment life, so a professional load calc is essential.
4. What is involved in replacing my existing HVAC with a new dual-fuel system?
The upgrade typically takes 1–2 days. Day 1: we obtain/verify Monterey County building permits, shut off utilities, recover refrigerant, remove the old condenser and furnace, and inspect/repair ductwork. Day 2: we install the new heat-pump condenser, matched indoor coil, and 80–96 % AFUE furnace; run new refrigerant lines and low-voltage wiring; add a dual-fuel compatible thermostat; charge the system with R-410A; and perform a Title 24 HERS refrigerant/airflow test. Before we leave, you receive a walkthrough of thermostat programming and maintenance tips, plus documentation for warranty and rebate purposes.
5. Are there rebates or tax credits for dual-fuel systems in Monterey?
Yes. As of 2024, Monterey residents served by PG&E can receive $800–$1,000 through the TECH Clean California heat-pump incentive. Qualifying high-efficiency furnaces (90 %+ AFUE) may earn an additional $200 utility rebate. The federal Inflation Reduction Act also offers a 30 % tax credit (up to $2,000) for ENERGY STAR certified heat-pump equipment. Combined, many homeowners recoup $1,500–$3,000 of the project cost. We handle all paperwork, including AHRI certificates and rebate submissions, and will advise you on any new state or local incentives as they become available.
6. What does a dual-fuel replacement cost and what’s the expected payback?
Installed costs in Monterey generally range from $12,000 to $18,000, depending on capacity, efficiency ratings (SEER2/HSPF2/AFUE), duct modifications, and indoor air-quality add-ons. After factoring in rebates and tax credits, net out-of-pocket can drop to $9,000–$14,000. Compared with a conventional 80 % gas furnace + 14 SEER AC, a 18 SEER2 heat pump paired with a 96 % AFUE furnace can save $350–$650 annually on combined gas and electric bills. Most homeowners see a 6- to 9-year payback, while enjoying quieter operation, carbon-footprint reduction, and a system life expectancy of 15–20 years with regular maintenance.