What Is a Heat Strip in HVAC Systems? (And Do You Really Need One?)
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What Is a Heat Strip in HVAC Systems? (And Do You Really Need One?)
Quick Answer:
A heat strip is an electric heating element installed inside a ducted HVAC air handler. It provides backup or supplemental heat when your heat pump can’t keep up—especially during freezing temperatures.
What Is a Heat Strip (Simple Explanation)
A heat strip is basically a high-powered electric heater (think of a giant toaster coil ) that sits inside your ducted system’s air handler.
When activated, it:
- Heats up instantly
- Blows warm air through your ductwork
- Supplements your main heating system (usually a heat pump)
Why Heat Strips Are Needed in HVAC Systems
Heat pumps are highly efficient, but they have one limitation:
They lose heating power in very cold weather (typically below 30–35°F)
That’s where heat strips come in.
Need help choosing the right heat strip? Call us at 615-553-8118
Main Reasons You Need a Heat Strip:
1. Backup Heat (Emergency Heat Mode)
If your heat pump:
- Breaks down
- Freezes up
- Can’t keep up
➡️ The heat strip kicks in to keep your home warm
2. Supplemental Heat (Cold Weather Boost)
When temps drop hard:
- Your heat pump runs longer
- Heat strips turn on to assist
➡️ Keeps your house at the set temperature
3. Faster Heating
Heat pumps heat gradually.
Heat strips:
- Deliver instant heat
- Help warm your home quicker after setbacks
4. Defrost Cycle Support
During winter, outdoor units build frost.
➡️ While your heat pump defrosts, the heat strip:
- Keeps warm air flowing inside
- Prevents cold air blasts
How Heat Strips Work (Behind the Scenes)
Heat strips use electric resistance heating, similar to:
- Space heaters
- Toasters
- Electric ovens
Step-by-step:
- Thermostat senses temp drop
- Calls for “Aux Heat” or “Emergency Heat”
- Electric current flows through coils
- Coils heat up instantly
- Blower pushes warm air through ducts
How Much Power Do Heat Strips Use?
This is where people need to pay attention.
Heat strips are:
- Very effective
- But not very energy-efficient
Typical sizes:
- 5 kW
- 8 kW
- 10 kW
- 15 kW
Real Talk:
- Heat strips cost more to run than a heat pump
- But they are essential for comfort and safety
Heat Pump vs Heat Strip (Big Difference)
|
Feature |
Heat Pump |
Heat Strip |
|
Efficiency |
High ✅ |
Low ❌ |
|
Heat Type |
Transfers heat |
Creates heat |
|
Cost to run |
Low |
Higher |
|
Cold weather performance |
Drops |
Strong |
|
Speed |
Slower |
Instant |
Best setup = Both working together
Do You Need a Heat Strip?
YES if:
- You live in cold climates
- You have a ducted heat pump system
- You want reliable winter comfort
- You don’t want your home getting cold during failures
MAYBE NOT if:
- You live in very mild climates (like Florida)
- You have gas heat backup instead
Heat Strips + MRCOOL Systems (Perfect Combo)
If you’re running a ducted MRCOOL system, heat strips are a smart add-on.
They pair perfectly with:
- MRCOOL Central Ducted Systems
- MRCOOL VersaPro Air Handlers
- MRCOOL Universal Systems
Why it matters for your customers:
- Better winter performance
- More comfort
- Peace of mind
Common Heat Strip Sizes (What to Choose)
|
Home Size |
Recommended Heat Strip |
|
Small homes |
5 - 8 kW |
|
Medium homes |
8 - 10 kW |
|
Large homes |
10 - 15 kW |
Always match:
- System size
- Electrical capacity
- Climate
- Correct Heat Kit for the MRCOOL system you have.
Important Things to Know Before Installing
- Requires proper electrical setup (high voltage)
- Must match your air handler
- Should be installed correctly (or DIY-ready systems with guidance)
- Can increase breaker size requirements
FAQ
What does “Aux Heat” mean on my thermostat?
It means your heat strip is running to help your heat pump.
What is “Emergency Heat”?
This forces the system to run heat strips only, bypassing the heat pump.
Are heat strips expensive to run?
Yes—more than heat pumps. But they’re used only when needed.
Can I run my system without a heat strip?
Yes—but you risk:
- Weak heating in cold temps
- No backup if system fails
Can I run a heat strip in a Ductless Mini Split?
No. Heat strips are built for Ducted Systems.
Why Buying From MRCOOL DIRECT Matters
When you purchase from MRCOOL DIRECT, you’re not just buying equipment—you’re getting:
- Expert system matching (including heat strips)
- The best discounts at checkout
- Fast, reliable shipping
- Support for DIY + pro installs
- The official MRCOOL DIRECT experience
Final Thoughts
Heat strips aren’t just an add-on—they’re your safety net for winter comfort.
If you’re running a ducted HVAC system, especially a heat pump:
A heat strip can be the difference between
“barely warm” and “perfect comfort.”
MRCOOL DIRECT your family owned business and #1 USA Most Trusted MRCOOL Dealer.
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