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How Heat Pumps Work in Extreme Cold Temperatures

Many homeowners assume heat pumps struggle when winter temperatures drop—but modern cold-climate heat pumps are specifically engineered to perform in extreme cold.
Across Ontario and other northern regions, today’s heat pump technology delivers reliable, efficient heating even during deep freezes.
Understanding how heat pumps work in cold temperatures can help homeowners feel confident choosing this energy-efficient heating solution.
The Science Behind Heat Pumps in Cold Weather
Even when outdoor temperatures plunge well below freezing, there is still heat energy present in the air.
Cold-climate heat pumps are designed to extract this thermal energy and move it indoors.
Instead of generating heat through combustion like a furnace, a heat pump uses refrigerant and advanced compressors to transfer heat—making the process far more efficient.
Advanced Cold-Climate Technology Makes the Difference
Modern heat pumps rely on several key innovations that allow them to operate in extreme cold: Variable-Speed Inverter Compressors
Unlike older systems that turn on and off, inverter-driven compressors adjust their speed continuously.
This allows the heat pump to maintain steady heating output even when outdoor temperatures fluctuate.
Enhanced Refrigerants
New refrigerants can absorb heat at much lower temperatures than older formulas, allowing heat pumps to continue operating efficiently well below 0°C.
Optimized Heat Exchangers
Larger and more efficient outdoor coils maximize heat absorption from cold air, improving performance in winter conditions.
How Cold Is Too Cold for a Heat Pump?
Many modern cold-climate heat pumps can operate efficiently down to -20°C to -25°C, with some models capable of producing heat even beyond that range.
In extreme cold snaps, systems may be paired with:
A high-efficiency backup heat source
A dual-fuel or hybrid setup
Supplemental electric heating
This ensures uninterrupted comfort no matter how harsh the winter becomes.
Defrost Cycles Explained
In cold, humid winter conditions, frost can build up on the outdoor unit.
Heat pumps automatically run defrost cycles to remove ice and maintain efficiency.
These cycles are brief, intelligent, and designed to minimize energy use while protecting system performance.
Modern systems activate defrost only when needed, rather than on a timer, which improves overall winter efficiency.
Why Heat Pumps Are Efficient Even in Extreme Cold
Heat pumps are still efficient in winter because they:
Move heat rather than create it
Use electricity more effectively than resistance heating
Maintain consistent output without large energy spikes
This results in steady indoor temperatures and lower energy costs compared to many traditional heating systems.
Are Heat Pumps Suitable for Ontario Winters?
Yes—when properly sized and installed, cold-climate heat pumps are an excellent choice for Ontario homes.
The key factors include:
Correct system sizing
Professional installation
Proper insulation and air sealing
Choosing a cold-climate-rated model
With the right setup, homeowners enjoy dependable heat all winter long.
Heat Pumps: Reliable Comfort Even in Deep Freezes
Thanks to modern technology, heat pumps are no longer a mild-climate solution.
Today’s cold-climate systems deliver reliable heating, impressive efficiency, and consistent comfort—even during extreme winter temperatures.
For homeowners looking to reduce energy costs, lower emissions, and stay warm through harsh winters, heat pumps are a proven and dependable solution.
Once again Twin Tech came through and fixed my furnace. A young man by the name of Mitch came by tonight and he was so nice explained everything he was quick he was clean he turned off the lights even when he left the furnace room its just above and beyond Twin Tech always delivers and I just found out about them last year and I will use no one else but thanks again Mitch you are fantastic
I had a problem with the Furnace (Armstrong ultra V) and Greg diagnosed it on the phone. Even told me what the issue was and I was able to fix it. This level of service from a Business that is almost unknown today.
If you require service, reach out to Greg. I will definitely use them in the future!
We have been shopping for a heat pump for our home. We had 3 reps come in and make recommendations and provide a quote. Of the 3, Bob was so clearly so much more qualified, thorough and informed than the other two that the decision was a no brainer. As soon as we get our audit results Twintech will be installing our heat pump.
knowledgeable sales person, did not try to up-sell unneeded features,
and was easily contacted to ensure customer satisfaction.
Installation was expertly done by friendly guys, everything explained for use of the products. Old products were removed and returned to rental company as part of the service. Follow up call was received to check all was well. This is my second time using this company as I was fully satisfied with my previous air conditioning unit installation
Twintech recently installed a new furnace for me. Bob did a great job assessing what I had and needed. All details well explained including the importance of proper sizing of furnace and the value of multi stage heating and the variable speed blower. As a nurse, indoor air quality is a high priority so the variable speed motor running continuous is so good. 24/7 air cleaning. Greg did a great job on install, attention to detail so appreciated. Already notice such an improved comfort and heat. Thank you Twintech! You come as advertised. I will recommend to anyone in need of heating or cooling!
We received various quotes from 4 different companies and right away, the prompt and thorough communication from Bob from TwinTech stood out. He introduced himself, sent sample sites and information, and always confirmed any agreed to dates and times.
Bob was friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the topic of HVAC and it was clear he was passionate about his profession. He approached the job as if he was installing in his own home.
Prior to the new furnace & A/C installation, our old units were loud and inefficient - having several rooms feeling too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. After installing the recommended units, all rooms stay at a consistent temperature- even the finished basement.
I highly recommend the TwinTech team - just an outstanding job at a reasonable price point.
The experience with Twintech was great from the start. Bob the sales manager was friendly and professional and did not use any pressure tactics. He was very knowledgeable.
The installation was completed by the twin owners in about 6-7 hours. Clean quiet easy going didn't mind when I poked my head in to see progress. Highly recommend
Just choose Twintech!
I do not usually write reviews and should have done this a few days sooner. But I was and still am enjoying the increased comfort in my home from the new furnace installed by Twintech.
From my initial call and conversation with Bob, I already had a good feeling that I would like this company.
I was provided information, pictures of great quality work previously completed.
When Bob came for the inspection of the furnace he was amazing. He gave so much great advice and told me all the areas that his team would resolve. I was very impressed as some of what he had suggested I had only seen in Youtube videos. The honesty and options for payment made this a no brainer. I decided I would like Twintech to replace my furnace.
The work was scheduled promptly week and took place within half a day. Gregg came to install the new furnace. Again amazing they carried out all the work promised. What was left was the best I have seen and speaks to how they take pride in the work they do and deliver. Gregg was really polite and professional and the furnace in my basement is a work of art.
They were friendly, fast, clean, & answered any questions I had. They are also offering an interest free 12 month payment plan - that really helped me out since this was an unexpected expense.
I had Twintech heating install a new furnace and ac unit. Bob, the sales rep, the installation team of Greg and Mitch were a 10 across the board. They were never pushy, gave me time to think about it. Once we decided , they were there in 24hrs. Great company to deal with. And they were nearly 5k less than a competitors quote for a top of the line furnace/ac unit verse mid level.
I highly recommend Twintech heating to anyone interested in anything HVAC.
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We are very happy to recommend this company to everyone. Our furnace broke down on Sunday morning. We phoned them and before noon Grant the owner showed up. He worked on the furnace for about a hour not wanting to give up to fix the problem. The furnace was 17 years old. I was the one talking about replacing it. End result was the next day it was all done. On the Sunday Bob came over with heaters to warm up the house. We decided to replace the water heater at the same time. Thanks Grant for the excellent work. Thumbs up.
Right on time. Explained how to work the HRV in a different way so the house would not be so dry. Changed my whole house water filter for me as well. Friendly, helpful, caring service!
Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.
We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!
TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!
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