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Home / Guide: Auxiliary vs Emergency HeatHELPFUL HEAT PUMP GUIDES

Auxiliary Heat and Emergency Heat: What Is the Difference?

Understand auxiliary and emergency heat, when backup heating can be normal, and what to report if your heat pump works only on backup heat.

Auxiliary heat supplements heat-pump operation when the system calls for additional heating. Emergency Heat is a backup operating mode on applicable systems. The exact behavior depends on the equipment and its controls.

Neither term means the same thing as requesting emergency repair.

Illustrative thermostat showing AUX HEAT
An AUX display describes operation; it does not identify a failed part. Illustrative AI-generated image.

An AUX display is not a diagnosis

Auxiliary operation can be part of normal heating. The useful question is whether the system is keeping the home comfortable and operating as intended for its configuration.

If backup operation appears to have changed substantially or the heat pump no longer contributes heat, record the pattern and request service. Avoid changing installer settings or lockout temperatures yourself.

If the system works only on Emergency Heat

Tell the technician that normal heating is ineffective but backup heating works. Also report any outdoor-unit behavior, thermostat message, recent control changes, and increase in electricity use.

The system needs inspection before a failed component can be identified. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for temporary backup operation rather than treating it as a permanent repair.

Illustrative comfortable residential living room
Discuss backup heat settings in the context of your equipment and home. Illustrative AI-generated image.

Running longer is not always a fault

Operating time depends on the equipment and heating demand. A system that maintains temperature is different from one that runs continuously while the home becomes colder.

Keep notes on the indoor temperature and backup-heat display so the service conversation focuses on what is changing.

Can I disable auxiliary heat to reduce my bill?

Do not alter the system's configuration without qualified advice. The correct settings depend on the equipment and how it is designed to provide heat.

Get your heating operation assessed

For help in Littleton, call Heat Pump Repair Pro at (720) 571-0599. If the home has lost heat and you need urgent service, visit emergency repair.

Prepare a Service Request

LET’S GET COMFORT BACK

A warmer home.
A clearer next step.

Tell us what changed. We’ll help you start the service conversation.

Call (720) 571-0599