HVAC guys...Dual fuel heat pump question

[Blown71X]

Since I`m coming to the conclusion that my air to air with electric supplement just isn`t cutting it in my shop, i`ve been tossing around the idea of
"dual fueling" it with LP, what are the options ?
And yes i`m aware i`m almost too far north for a air to air but that was my choice.
I`m insulated as good as budget would allow when built (30 in the ceiling, 19 in the walls)

I don`t really want to replace the entire system as it works great and is economical 3 seasons of the year and is only 3 years old, we`ve had some unusually cold **** early on this season and I haven`t added up the numbers yet but due to the amount of time it has been in backup heat, it probably isn`t going to be pretty and will get worse come february, i`m sure.

I hate the thought of having to deal with gas as i`m totally electric but approaching 300 dollar a month electric bills when I haven`t even been out there much this winter are starting to cramp my style a tad.

I wish I could hit the lottery...as Geo would be in my future

Thanks
Rick

 

[Junkman]

Depending on your budget, you can go with various options of propane, from a wall mounted model that direct vents out the back, to a ceiling hung unit such as the Hot Dawg or Big Max. Personally, if you only need it for 3 months of the year, I would go with a wall mounted one for simplicity.

 

[chaingang]

I sure wouldn't change to a dual fuel heat pump if your unit is only 3 years old. Just add supplemental heat as suggested above. The ceiling mounted units would save wall space and use an area that normally is wasted.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

You need a Low Temperature Heat Pump (LTHP) sometimes known as a Hallowell heat pump. I think several companies make them now. They are effective to about minus 10 degrees F. Do some Google searches. You might be able to get away with changing only the outside unit.

Charles

 

[Kinger]

Try to find an LP heat exchanger that fits your heat pump. You can set up controls that will kick in the LP when the heat pump won't keep up.

 

[hidollartoys]

I would contact the original installer and check what retrofits are available for your unit. If that does not yeild a satisfactory solution, then install supplimental system. Maybe a tank mounted catalytic heater.