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

Cold-Climate Heat Pumps Explained

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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.



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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by JLH from Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Imagine, it's 5 minutes after the midnight countdown New Year's eve and the furnace quits. We called TwinTech fully expecting to leave a message and actually spoke with Greg, one of the owners! We had an immediate repair early the next morning & a new furnace within the week. We have entrusted TwinTech with all our home HVAC service needs for over 6 years. That's why this week with an opportunity to purchase a new BBQ, we called them 1st to see about a gas line install. It's chicken on the grill tonight! They are efficient, reliable, honest, hard working, and -- attentive is an understatement.

by Curtis, Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Wonderful customer service, starting from the job quote (Dave), to the clean install, to the follow-up. Twintech is a small company which installed my Napoleon furnace, A/C, John Wood tank, and ran the line for my gas dryer. The installation was completed as promised in one day. The work area was kept very clean, and they even took care of my old rental tank. The professionalism and wonderful customer service is second to none. They completed all of my rebate paperwork, and now I'm getting $2000 back! You will not be disappointed if you hire this company for your project.

by Roy in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I was referred to Twintech by a neighbour and was not disappointed. Not only was the customer service excellent their workmanship was second to none. Greg and Grant work extremely clean covering the pathway to the furnace room, labeling the essential parts, left the area spotless and were efficient. They cleaned up the mess left by the previous installers (wiring, improperly installed AC coil, and gaps in venting etc). They also ran through the operation of the new furnace and gave me some maintenance tips. Greg and Grant are professional and all around good guys. I will definitely recommend their service to anyone without hesitation.

by Peter Buck, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very satisfied with service from Twintech , beginning with all the information provided by Dave , which helped make the decision much easier . Installation was very smooth & done on time as promised & cleanup was well done . Would definitely recommend this company & use them again for any future needs . Well done.

by Angela from Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Twintech Heating & Cooling Inc. came in and replaced my 39 year old furnace with a beautiful Napoleon variable high efficiency furnace! Their work was efficient and professional and they were a pleasure to deal with, from sales to installation! I would highly recommend them.

by Scott and Sandra in Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

After receiving numerous quotes to replace my old furnace and AC unit (which was 20 years old) I went with Twintech. Dave, in sales, answered questions professionally and promptly and worked diligently in order to secure my business. Installation was scheduled the week after and Greg and Peter showed up, as scheduled, and did a fine job installing both units. The site was left tidy and neat. I would highly recommend Twintech for your furnace and AC work.

by Linda from Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I chose TwinTech because they installed my new furnace a few years ago and did a great job. When they installed my new A/C, they replaced all parts -- the copper pipes, the housing on top of the furnace and the wiring. (Apparently, the wiring for my old A/C was insufficient.) Their pricing was competitive. The sales representative came to see me within a few hours of my call. My new A/C was installed a few days later and I couldn't be happier with Twintech's professionalism and work. I would recommend TwinTech to any homeowner.

by george polychronis from Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Had a great experience with this company. Great price and great customer service. You wont be disappointed with twintech. Discussed the job with Greg while he was installing who was extremely informative and obviously enjoys the work he does.

by Nuzio in Markham on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I needed my AC unit relocated due to upcoming landscape work. I reached out to the Twintech team through Homestars. Dave connected with me immediately to discuss the project and various options. We decided the best option was to mount the unit on the wall. Greg was in touch with me the same day as well and we scheduled the work for later that same week. This was a small job so I did not think I would get immediate attention. The Twintech team exceeded my expectations in every respect. They were very knowledgeable and friendly. The team arrived exactly on time on the scheduled day and worked efficiently to get the job done quickly. I would definitely use Twintech again for any Heating and AC projects.

by Leslie B, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I have used Greg Dainty for over 15 years in 3 different homes, for heating, cooling, pool heaters, appliances and bbq lines. Greg has always been so professional, friendly and the workmanship nothing short of fantastic. Greg has always discussed my options and fixing versus replacing, giving his honest opinion and what works best for me cost effective wise and long term. I have valued his opinion so much and have not trusted my gas needs with anyone since using him. I have also referred him to many of my friends and family and have always been so thankful with how well and quickly he looks after us all. I hold Greg in the highest regard and would recommend him to anyone with complete confidence!

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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!

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