Electric Backup Heating: What It Is, Why You Need It, and How It Works with Your PTAC

Electric Backup Heating: What It Is, Why You Need It, and How It Works with Your PTAC

Hey, it’s Samantha! When we talk about efficient home comfort, sometimes the spotlight shines on fancy compressors and sleek heat pumps — but today I want to put the spotlight on an equally important but often overlooked hero: electric backup heating.

Especially if you’re considering a PTAC like the Amana Distinctions 14,700-BTU model with a built-in 3.5 kW electric backup heater, understanding how this backup heat works can make all the difference in staying cozy without shocking your electric bill.

Ready to get cozy and confident about your system? Let’s break down what electric backup heat is, why you need it, and how to keep it running efficiently.

What Is Electric Backup Heating?

Electric backup heating is a supplemental heating method integrated into many heat pump systems, including PTAC units. Its job is simple but vital: when the heat pump alone can’t pull enough warmth from the outside air — usually because it’s too cold — the electric backup heater steps in to provide instant, reliable heat.

Think of it like a safety net for chilly winter days, ensuring your home stays warm no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

Why Does Your PTAC Need Backup Heat?

Heat pumps are amazing because they transfer heat instead of generating it from scratch, which makes them energy efficient. However, their ability to extract heat from the outside air diminishes as the temperature drops near freezing or below.

For example, the Amana Distinctions 14,700-BTU PTAC is designed to work efficiently down to about 25°F (-4°C). Below that, the heat pump can struggle, which is why the 3.5 kW electric heat strip activates automatically to maintain your comfort.

Without backup heat, your home could get cold and the system could be stressed, which can lead to premature wear and higher energy costs.

To learn more about why backup heating is critical for heat pumps, the U.S. Department of Energy explains this relationship clearly in their heat pump guide (DOE Heat Pump FAQs).

How Does Electric Backup Heating Work?

The electric backup heater in your PTAC is essentially a set of resistance heating coils inside the unit, similar to those found in a toaster or electric oven but designed specifically for heating air efficiently.

Here’s the breakdown of its operation:

• When the heat pump senses that outdoor temps have dropped below its efficient operating range, the unit automatically switches to or supplements heating with the electric heat strips.

• These coils heat up quickly and warm the air blown into your space.

• Once temps rise or the heat pump can handle the load, the system switches back to heat pump mode to save energy.

This process is seamless, and most users don’t even notice the switch—just consistent warmth.

For a deep dive on how electric resistance heating works within HVAC, check out this overview from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) here: ACEEE HVAC Heating Types.

Benefits of Electric Backup Heating

1. Reliable Warmth During Cold Spells
Electric backup heat ensures your home stays comfortable even in deep winter cold snaps, which is especially important if you live in regions that dip below freezing regularly.

2. Faster Heat Delivery
Electric resistance heat warms the air instantly, providing quick relief on frosty mornings or sudden temperature drops.

3. Protects Your Heat Pump
By reducing strain on the heat pump during extreme cold, electric backup extends the life of your PTAC system and keeps maintenance issues at bay.

4. Compact and Integrated
Because it’s built right into your PTAC unit, there’s no need for separate heating appliances or complicated retrofits.

What About Energy Costs?

One concern I always hear from my savvy readers is: “Will electric backup heat skyrocket my electric bill?”

Here’s the scoop: yes, electric resistance heat uses more energy per hour than the heat pump. But because it only kicks in when absolutely necessary — typically during the coldest days or for short bursts — its impact on your monthly bill is usually modest.

For example, a 3.5 kW electric heat strip running 3 hours a day costs roughly:

3.5 kW × 3 hours × $0.13/kWh = $1.37 per day.

That’s manageable, especially balanced by the substantial energy savings you get when your heat pump runs efficiently the rest of the season.

And if you want to see detailed HVAC energy costs and comparisons, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) has a wealth of data here: EIA Residential Energy Consumption Survey.

How to Use Electric Backup Heat Efficiently

To get the best of both worlds — comfort and energy savings — here are some tips:

• Set a Reasonable Thermostat: Avoid cranking up your thermostat during cold spells. Instead, keep temps steady and allow the system to cycle naturally.

• Use a Smart Thermostat: Many PTAC units work with smart thermostats that optimize when and how backup heat is used, preventing unnecessary operation.

• Regular Maintenance: Clean filters and coils to maximize efficiency. Dirty components make the system work harder, wasting energy.

• Consider Supplemental Insulation: Good insulation reduces heat loss and lets your system run less frequently overall.

Safety Tips for Electric Backup Heating

Because electric resistance heating involves electrical coils, safety is key:

• Never block vents or airflow around your PTAC unit.

• Keep flammable items away from the unit.

• Make sure your home’s electrical system can handle the load. Consult an electrician if you’re unsure.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers clear safety guidelines for electric heating devices — check them out here: NFPA Electric Heating Safety.

Troubleshooting Electric Backup Heat

If you suspect your electric backup heat isn’t working right, watch for:

• Cold air blowing during heating cycles

• The heat strip not turning on in cold weather

• Tripped circuit breakers

• Unusual noises or smells

If any of these happen, call a qualified HVAC technician. It’s always better to be safe and keep your system running smoothly.

Integrating Electric Backup Heat with Renewable Energy

Here’s a savvy tip for the eco-conscious: pairing your heat pump PTAC with solar panels or a home battery system can help offset the higher energy use of electric backup heat. By generating your own power, you keep your bills down and your carbon footprint lighter.

For more on combining solar and heat pumps, the Solar Energy Industries Association offers great insights here: SEIA Heat Pump Solar Integration.

Final Thoughts from Samantha

Electric backup heating might not be glamorous, but it’s the reliable, unsung hero that keeps your home toasty when the weather turns nasty. With the Amana Distinctions PTAC’s built-in 3.5 kW electric backup, you get the perfect blend of energy-smart heat pump efficiency and dependable warmth.

So go ahead, enjoy your cozy space all winter long, knowing your system’s got your back (and your toes). 

Check out the Amana Distinctions PTAC at The Furnace Outlet and get ready to warm up in style!

📋 Efficiently Yours, Samantha “The HVAC Whisperer” Reyes 📋