$49 / month O.A.C Including Install
$49 / month O.A.C Including Install

Cold-Climate Heat Pumps Explained

24 / 7 Emergency Service Available. Call Us Now: 1.844.894.6832


[BACK]
Cold-Climate Heat Pumps Explained

Posted On: February 2, 2026

Cold-Climate Heat Pumps Explained

If you’ve heard that heat pumps don’t work in cold weather, you’re not alone.


That used to be true.


Today’s cold-climate heat pumps are designed specifically to handle freezing temperatures—and they’re becoming one of the most efficient heating options for homes in cold regions.


At Twintech Heating & Cooling, we install and sell modern cold-climate heat pumps, and homeowners are often surprised by how well they perform—even during harsh winters.


Let’s break it down.


What Is a Cold-Climate Heat Pump?


A cold-climate heat pump is a high-efficiency heating and cooling system engineered to operate in temperatures well below freezing, depending on the model.


Instead of generating heat by burning fuel, a heat pump:


Pulls heat from the outside air (yes, even cold air contains heat)


Compresses and transfers that heat indoors


Reverses in summer to provide air conditioning


Cold-climate models use:


Advanced inverter-driven compressors


Enhanced refrigerants


Improved defrost cycles to maintain consistent heat in winter.


Do Heat Pumps Really Work in Cold Weather?


Yes—when you install the right system for the climate.


Older heat pumps struggled below certain temperatures.


Modern cold-climate heat pumps are specifically designed for winter performance and can:


Maintain indoor comfort in sub-zero temperatures


Deliver steady heat without temperature swings


Operate far more efficiently than electric resistance heat


In many homes, they can replace a traditional furnace—or work alongside one in a dual-fuel setup.


Heat Pump vs Furnace in Cold Climates


Here’s how cold-climate heat pumps compare to traditional systems: Heat Pumps


Extremely energy efficient


Lower operating costs


Provide both heating and cooling


Reduce reliance on fossil fuels Furnaces


Very strong heat output in extreme cold


Often paired with heat pumps for backup


Higher fuel costs over time


Many homeowners choose a dual-fuel system, where the heat pump handles most heating, and a furnace kicks in only during extreme cold.


What About Ice and Defrost Cycles?


You may notice frost on the outdoor unit in winter—that’s normal.


Cold-climate heat pumps use automatic defrost cycles to:


Melt ice buildup safely


Maintain heating performance


Prevent damage to the system


A properly installed heat pump will manage this seamlessly without affecting indoor comfort.


Are Cold-Climate Heat Pumps Worth It?


For many homeowners, absolutely.


Benefits include:


Lower monthly energy bills


Fewer mechanical parts than combustion systems


Quiet operation


Long system lifespan


Possible rebates and incentives


The key is professional sizing and installation.


An undersized or improperly installed system won’t perform as intended.


Is a Cold-Climate Heat Pump Right for Your Home?


Cold-climate heat pumps are ideal for:


Homes with moderate to good insulation


Homeowners looking to reduce energy costs


Properties replacing older furnaces or AC units


New installations or system upgrades


At Twintech Heating & Cooling, we evaluate your home, climate needs, and comfort goals to recommend the right heat pump system—not a one-size-fits-all solution.


Professional Heat Pump Installation Matters


Performance depends heavily on:


Correct system sizing


Proper refrigerant charge


Smart thermostat integration


Quality installation


That’s why working with an experienced HVAC contractor is critical.


Schedule a Heat Pump Consultation


If you’re curious whether a cold-climate heat pump will work for your home, Twintech Heating & Cooling is here to help.


We install, sell, and service high-efficiency heat pump systems designed for real winter performance.


Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a heat pump estimate.



[BACK]

See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Bill, Oshawa on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are very happy with our new furnace. The service was excellent the guys worked 6 hours straight through and there was no mess at all they took the old furnace box’s etc with them they then explained everything to us they were very helpful and pleasant , when we need a new air conditioner we know who to call!

by Ken, Bomanville on Twintech Heating and Cooling

The crew from sales to installation was very professional and had great attention to detail

by Tracy, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We couldn’t have been more impressed with Twintech - from our first service call with Mitch who took the time to thoroughly diagnose the issue with our furnace, to Dave who proposed a well thought out solution to meet our needs and finally Greg and team who acted quickly to install given we had no heat.


We did our due diligence by soliciting quotes from alternate providers and were shocked and disappointed by the aggressive and manipulative tactics used.


Twintech was honest in their approach, detailed in their product knowledge, reasonably priced, diligent in their follow-up and valued our business.


Well done Twintech! You made this a positive experience for us and our new furnace works beautifully!

by Skapoor, Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We recently purchased an Amana high efficiency furnace and humdifier through Twintech. The work was completed very professionally and the quality of the workmanship was high. There was some additional sheet metal work required to complete the installation, which they were able to complete themselves. Overall I am very pleased with the work and would highly recommend Twintech for a furnace replacement.

by Steve, Oshawa on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We were very pleased with every aspect of the work that was done. They were very professional and polite. They arrived when they said they would and job was completed on estimated time


We would highly recommend them to whoever needed a recommendation


We have a very large dog and they were very understanding and respectful of him being around

by Patrick, Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

The blower on our furnace stopped working leaving us with a cold house. Dave from TwinTech responded immediately to our HomeStars service request. From beginning to end Dave was nothing but helpful, friendly and professional, he did a great job of walking us through the quote and scope of work.


The replacement of the furnace went smoothly. The Guys did a great job, everyone was very friendly and polite. There were no hiccups, or unexpected costs. The only surprise was they left the work area cleaner than it was before they started.


Was a great experience with the whole TwinTech team. Its been a couple of months since the new furnace has been installed and its working great!

by Ed, Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I heard about TwinTech when researching new furnaces at furnaceprices.ca. After contacting them about my broken down furnace, Dave came to my house the next day to assess my situation and requirements for a new furnace. He recommended one that had stainless steel heat exchangers which sold me since my previous furnace had issues with a rusted secondary heat exchanger that had to be replaced. Dave also set me up with an appointment with an energy audit company so that I could take advantage of a rebate to help improve the energy efficiency of my home and get some money back. A few days later, Greg, Grant, and Mitch came to install the new furnace and remove the old one. When delivering and removing the furnaces, they were very careful not to damage my floors and walls, and even laid out red carpeting to protect the floors. They were very friendly and professional. The installation was completed in the time they said it would take and they cleaned up their work areas. Within a week, Dave called to follow-up to see how everything was going. I have already recommended them to several friends and family members who may need new furnaces soon.

by Fred, Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Twintech did a great job, from Dave the Sales Rep to the Office staff and The Professional Technicians who did the installation. They were professional, courteous, knowledgable and informative. From beginning to follow up we were completely satisfied with everything. Thanks Again. Sincerely The Laytons

by Elle, Oshawa on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great product, great service, great follow-up. The Twintech Heating and Cooling arranged removal of my existing oil tank and they installed the new gas furnace Amana (made in USA). I am very happy with the final result and support I received throughout the process. My thanks go to the entire Twintech team for their professionalism, great communication and follow-up.

by John & Linda, Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We've had Twintech provide us with work in the past, for an inground pool heater and required rough-in for a new gas stove. More recently they provided the same friendly, professional, timely and clean installation of our new furnace.

Related Links:
heat pump system cost, 5 ton heat pump, indoor heat pumps, heat pump technology, residential heat pump system, heat pump hvac system, heat pump,


See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Aaron on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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.

by Linda on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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!

by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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.

by Robert Mizuno on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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!

Was My AC Installed Incorrectly?

  • SUBMITTED BY:
  • TWINTECH HEATING & COOLING
  • - July 10, 2024

If you suspect that your AC might have been installed incorrectly, there are several signs and symptoms you can look for: Inconsistent Temperature: If different rooms in your home are at noticeably different temperatures, it could be a sign

Read More

Panasonic Heat Pump Rebates Oshawa

  • SUBMITTED BY:
  • TWINTECH HEATING & COOLING
  • - June 30, 2025

If you’re considering upgrading your home’s heating and cooling system in the Durham Region, a Panasonic heat pump is one of the most efficient and eco-friendly choices available. At Twintech Heating & Cooling, we specialize in pro

Read More

Twintech: Reliable Furnace Repair in Pickering

  • SUBMITTED BY:
  • TWINTECH HEATING & COOLING
  • - September 9, 2024

Reliable Furnace Repair in Pickering | Twintech Heating and Cooling When the cold weather hits Pickering, a reliable furnace is essential to keep your home warm and comfortable. At Twintech Heating and Cooling, we specialize in furnace repair serv

Read More

Amana Heat Pumps for Sale in Oshawa

  • SUBMITTED BY:
  • TWINTECH HEATING & COOLING
  • - August 26, 2025

Looking for a dependable, energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home year-round At Twintech Heating & Cooling, we proudly offer top-of-the-line Amana heat pumps to homeowners across the Durham Region and Toronto. With professional installat

Read More