Hybrid heat
A hybrid heat system reacts to changing temperatures and automatically adjusts to the most efficient energy saving method available to heat or cool a home. It can be a fuel-saving alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems in that it combines a furnace with a heat pump, rather than an air conditioner.

Mechanics 
A heat pump works as an air conditioner in hot weather, but can also reverse the process and heat the home when cold weather arrives. Rather than burning fuel to generate heat, the heat pump moves heat via the transmission of R-410A refrigerant without burning a flame, using a small amount of energy to move heat from one location to another.

Hybrid Heat can work with both gas and electric systems. By using a variable speed fan, hot or cool air gets distributed consistently and evenly throughout a space. Variable speed fans use Direct Current style motor technology, or ECM Motor.

For any furnace, providing maximum comfort means achieving the proper amount of airflow. This is true for both heating and cooling operation. Unlike conventional single-speed motors, a variable speed motor runs at a wide range of speeds. Using intelligent technology, it continually monitors incoming data from your heating and cooling system, and it automatically makes the adjustments necessary to meet your comfort needs. It varies the amount of air circulated, compensating for factors like dirty filters by increasing speed. Put simply, it delivers just the right amount of air for the right level of heating and cooling comfort. As an added bonus, a variable speed motor gradually ramps up to full speed. This eliminates the sudden, noisy blast of air that’s associated with standard furnace motors. And, during cooling operation, it allows the air conditioner to remove more moisture from the air.

Environment 
In regions where electricity is generated using fossil fuels, a heat pump's electrical efficiency also reduces the system's "carbon footprint", making it a more environmentally friendly approach to heating a home.

Energy consumption 
While local energy costs vary, a heat pump can reduce electricity use by up to 40 percent. A local utility provider or a reputable heating & cooling contractor can provide energy savings analysis via a home energy audit.

References

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
Cooling technology
Heat pumps