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How to Get the Most Out of Your Heat Pump This Winter
Posted On: November 22, 2025
Winter in the Durham Region and Toronto can be long, cold, and unpredictable — which makes it the perfect time to ensure your heat pump is running at peak performance.
Whether you recently installed a new system or have been using one for years, a few smart habits can dramatically improve comfort, efficiency, and savings.
Here’s how to take full advantage of your heat pump during Ontario’s winter months.
1.
Set It and Forget It — Avoid Constant Thermostat Adjustments
Heat pumps work best when they maintain a steady temperature.
Why you shouldn’t keep adjusting the thermostat:
Frequent temperature changes make the system work harder
Maintaining a steady set point is more energy-efficient
Modern heat pumps regulate power levels automatically
For most homes in Durham Region and Toronto, a temperature between 20–22°C keeps things comfortable without overworking the system.
2.
Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear of Snow and Ice
Ontario winters mean snow, wind, and icy buildup.
A blocked outdoor unit can reduce efficiency or cause short cycles.
Check your unit regularly for:
Snow accumulation
Ice buildup
Fallen branches or debris
Gently clear around the unit with a soft brush or broom — never chip at ice.
If you notice persistent icing, Twintech can inspect it to ensure everything is functioning properly.
3.
Clean or Replace Filters Monthly
Your heat pump depends on proper airflow.
During winter, indoor air is drier and dustier, so filters can clog faster.
Clean filters mean:
Better airflow
Lower energy bills
More consistent heating
Improved indoor air quality
A quick monthly check can make a huge difference.
4.
Use the Right Heat Pump Mode
Many homeowners accidentally use the wrong settings, which can reduce comfort or increase energy use.
For winter, use: ✔ HEAT mode for primary heating ✔ AUTO-FAN mode for balanced airflow ✘ Avoid using AUTO temperature mode, which can switch to cooling unexpectedly
If you’re unsure, Twintech technicians can help optimize your settings.
5.
Don’t Rely on Backup Heat Unless Needed
Most heat pumps include auxiliary or emergency heat, but these modes use much more energy.
Use Emergency Heat only during a malfunction or extreme cold (usually below –20°C for older systems).
Modern cold-climate heat pumps used in Toronto and Durham Region rarely need backup heat during typical winter days.
6.
Improve Home Efficiency to Boost Heat Pump Performance
Your heat pump is only part of the comfort equation.
Improving your home’s overall efficiency helps your system work at its best.
Simple steps include:
Sealing drafts around windows and doors
Using thick curtains at night
Keeping interior doors open for better airflow
Adding weatherstripping in older homes
These upgrades help maintain stable indoor temperatures and reduce strain on the system.
7.
Take Advantage of Zone Heating
If your heat pump includes multiple indoor units (common with ductless systems), you can heat different areas independently.
Optimize zone heating by:
Heating the rooms you use most
Lowering temperatures in guest rooms or unused spaces
Keeping doors open to share warm air when needed
This maximizes comfort and savings.
8.
Schedule Professional Maintenance Before Peak Cold
Heat pumps run almost year-round, so they benefit from regular professional care.
A Twintech technician will:
Check refrigerant levels
Clean coils
Inspect electrical components
Test sensors and controls
Ensure your system is winter-ready
Preventive maintenance improves performance, reduces energy use, and extends your system’s lifespan.
Why Trust Twintech Heating & Cooling?
Serving Durham Region and Toronto, Twintech is known for reliable service, expert installation, and honest advice.
Whether you need maintenance, repairs, or help optimizing your system, our certified technicians keep your home comfortable all winter long.
Keep Warm, Stay Efficient — We’re Here to Help
By following these simple steps, you’ll enjoy better comfort, cleaner air, and lower energy bills all winter.
If you’d like a system checkup or personalized recommendations for your home, Twintech Heating & Cooling is just a call away.
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See What Our Customers Are Saying:
Jan 1, 2015
Dave was great in helping me get the proper units for my property, as well as getting them installed. The installers arrived when they said they would, and completed the project on time, and professionally. If I needed another furnace, I would use Dave again.
Jan 1, 2015
I have known Greg and Grant Dainty for many years and have used their company for my house and business. I recommended them also for my parents and sister and they all have been very satisfied with the quality of work for a reasonable price. I just recently had them install a new HVAC system in an older house and was very pleased with their work. Craig in Pickering. After meeting with various heating and air conditioning contractors I was referred to Twin Tech Heating and Cooling through a family member. Greg and Grant arrived at my home and provided me with an estimate and a plan as to how they were going to remove and replace my furnace and air conditioner. On the day of install Greg and Grant arrived at my home on time and were very professional and extremely courteous as to any questions or concerns that I had. The removal and install was truly professional and the attention to detail was exactly what I was looking for. Ive seen many installs from other contractors and I couldnt be any happier to have had such a clean looking install. The sheet metal work, ducting and venting all look fantastic. Upon completion Greg and Grant left me feeling extremely happy and very fortunate of a job well done. Thanks again Twin Tech!!
Jan 1, 2015
My old furnace had finally broken down for the last time when contacted twintech to have a new furnace installed They were prompt, knowledgeable and very reasonably priced. They did such a great job i tell all my friends and family about this company.
Jan 1, 2015
To whom it may concern, I recently had TwinTech (Greg and Grant Dainty) replace my furnace and service both my gas fireplaces and air conditioning unit. They were professional, courteous and very fair in their pricing. I would gladly recommend TwinTech to anyone needing work done. I can be contacted at 905-626-XXXX.
Jan 1, 2015
My Fiancé and I have relied on Twintech Heating and Cooling now for the better part of the last 10 years. In that time, Greg has installed a furnace, an air conditioner, and a heat-pump at our residence in Toronto. In each instance Greg and his team were a pleasure to deal with. They were courteous and professional throughout the whole process and the quality of their work is first rate. Our experiences have always been extremely positive and we have referred his services numerous times to our friends and family. Without hesitation, I would recommend Greg and TwinTech Heating and Cooling to anyone looking to service or replace their existing heat/AC equipment
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