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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:
Aug 26, 2022
This is the second time we have had Twintech to our house. A couple of summers ago they were in for an issue with our air conditioning. This time it was our furnace having an issue. It was shutting off randomly and not coming back on. Greg came right away and took the time to investigate thoroughly and explain what was going with the furnace. Both times I have been thoroughly impressed with their speed, customer service, and quality of work. I HIGHLY recommend Twintech.
Aug 24, 2022
Extremely happy.
So we were in no rush to replace our old units and took the time to do some research and get a number of quotes.
Twintech came in at around the middle of the pack for price but what convinced us to go with them was Bob, the representative that came to our house. Bob was by far the most professional of all the reps that we met with. He took the time to explain everything, what would work best for us and why. He really did seem very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about his stuff.
As promised on the day of install the crew showed up on time and got to work with minimal impact on us
..they were professional, clean, tidy and got the system up and running ahead of schedule...they made a couple of adjustments to the system to optimize it for our house.
The crew left the house clean and tidy.
Bob the rep showed up to check in and give us a few tips ..
It's been a week since install and all is good.
Our overall experience with Twintech has been excellent from start to finish and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.
Thank u.
Aug 23, 2022
It was a refreshing experience interacting with the Twintech team. From Bob, the sales consultant, who articulated in layman's terms all the options available and reasons for making any selection. This was done without the prevailing pressure tactics so commonplace today.
Before proceeding Mitch, the technician, at our request conducted a service check on our 30 yr old furnace. His report was positive indicating no urgency to replace it. Again no pressure tactics.
Three days after first meeting with Bob, the installation team of Greg and
Spencer completed the installation within the planned time frame.
A very professional, courteous and transparent team which delivered on their promise. I highly recommend Twintech.
Aug 22, 2022
Initial contact with sales resulted in an immediate response, which led to a timely installation. Both sales and installers were all very professional. I have no hesitation in recommending TWINTECH.
Aug 21, 2022
I had a great experience with TwinTech. The company offered a reasonable quote, and performed a quick and clean installation. The installer Greg was experienced, professional and courteous. He explained the services he performed and gave recommendations on maintain the new furnace.
The salesman Bob was honest
and professional and educated me on how to achieve optimal performance.
All communication from them was quick and they came the following day. I was pleased with the service and would recommend them.
Aug 20, 2022
From quote, to installation, to follow up, Twintech provided excellent service. I would highly recommended their services.
Aug 19, 2022
I had a really great experience with these guys. The salesman Bob was clearly very knowledgeable about everything to do with heating and cooling a home, spent a lot of time with us going over the details of the job, never rushed us and came back after the install to make sure we were happy. The installation crew was excellent, they covered the floors all the way from outside down to the basement furnace room, kept the place clean, got the work done on time and were very friendly. Ive got 15 years in the contracting/ construction industry and these guys are one of the most professional companys Ive dealt with. Great company!
Aug 18, 2022
Had great service and clean-up was good. Was happy with my salesman. They were very friendly and helpful. I needed a new furnace as our was over 20 years old. The furnace and air-conditioner work great and they are very quiet. I am very pleased with the service and product I received.
Aug 17, 2022
Met with Dave for the sales process and he was great about explaining and going over everything to us. The install happened very quickly and the team were super professional and friendly. We are very happy with this company and their services and we definitely recommend them to others. Thankful my sister recommended them to me!
Aug 16, 2022
Reviews for Twintech were good, and they did not disappoint. After an initial visit to discuss the suitable AC unit for replacement, an installation date was available in just a couple of days, and everything was installed without a hitch. Highly recommended
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