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

How Do Heat Pumps Perform in Cold Weather?

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How Do Heat Pumps Perform in Cold Weather?

Posted On: January 28, 2024

How Do Heat Pumps Perform in Cold Weather?

Heat pumps can operate in cold weather, but their performance may be affected depending on various factors such as outdoor temperature, system design, and technology used. Here's how heat pumps generally perform in cold weather:


  1. Efficiency: Traditional air-source heat pumps become less efficient as the outdoor temperature drops below freezing. This is because the heat pump has to work harder to extract heat from the outdoor air, which becomes less available as temperatures drop. However, newer models and technologies are being developed to improve efficiency in colder temperatures.


  2. Supplementary Heating: To overcome the inefficiency of extracting heat from very cold air, many heat pump systems are equipped with supplementary heating elements, such as electric resistance heaters or a gas furnace. These supplementary heaters kick in when the outdoor temperature is too low for the heat pump to meet the heating demand efficiently.


  3. Defrost Cycles: During cold weather, frost can accumulate on the outdoor unit's coil, reducing the heat pump's efficiency. To combat this, modern heat pumps are equipped with defrost cycles that temporarily reverse the refrigerant flow to melt the frost. This can temporarily reduce the heating output of the system.


  4. Cold Climate Heat Pumps: Heat pumps designed specifically for cold climates, often referred to as "cold climate heat pumps" or "cold weather heat pumps," are optimized to operate efficiently in low temperatures. These systems typically feature advanced compressor technology, enhanced insulation, and larger coils to extract heat more effectively from cold outdoor air.


  5. Geothermal Heat Pumps: Geothermal heat pumps, which extract heat from the ground instead of the outdoor air, are not as affected by cold weather fluctuations. They can provide consistent heating even in extremely cold climates, making them a preferred choice in regions with harsh winters.


  6. Proper Sizing and Installation: Ensuring that the heat pump system is properly sized for the heating load of the building and installed correctly can improve its performance in cold weather. Proper insulation and sealing of ductwork also play a crucial role in maintaining efficiency.


In summary, while traditional air-source heat pumps may experience reduced efficiency in very cold weather, advancements in technology, supplementary heating options, and specialized systems designed for cold climates have significantly improved their performance in such conditions. It's essential to consider factors like climate, system design, and supplementary heating options when choosing a heat pump for cold weather applications.



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by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great service and great people to deal with, from sales to installer. I highly recommend this company.

by GR from Oshawa on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Twintech replaced our aging furnace and air conditioner recently. I highly recommend this company. Their quote was competitive, they were on time and respectful of our home and extremely professional. From the salesman to the installers and the owner who followed up afterward to ensure we were satisfied, we are very pleased with the service. We are looking forward to working with this company for all of our HVAC needs for the years to come. Excellent workmanship and service!

by nathans in Scarborough on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We wanted to get our AC replaced as it was 22-years old and added to this our furnace was costing more and more to repair. So, we decided to get both the furnace and AC replaced.

After going through a few quotes and product reviews we decided to go with Twintech. The three-men crew arrived early in the morning, wasted no time and got to work right away. By 2:00 pm, they were all done. I’ve found their work to be top notch and they were completely professional. I had all my questions answered to my satisfaction both during the progress of their work and at end.

I have pleasure in recommending Twintech to anyone who is looking to get their furnace or Ac replaced

Nathan S.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Our air conditioner died On a Saturday and within hours Dave came out to take a look and discuss replacement/repair options.
The new air conditioner was installed on the Wednesday. The new unit was installed quickly. The installers were friendly and cleaned up afterwards.
We noticed a slight leak around the furnace that night and they came out the next day and fixed the issue. It has been working great and is quieter than our previous unit.
Very satisfied and would highly recommend TwinTech.

by Nancy in Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I contacted TwinTech to replace my 20-year old A/C. Dave, their service rep, promptly replied and was at my home within 2 hours. He was friendly and knowledgeable and didn't try to upgrade or oversell their A/C units but suggested the best fit for my small 1000 feet bungalow. Although this was during a heatwave and very busy, they were able to fit me in 2 days later. The TwinTech crew installed a 1.5 ton Ducane A/C unit that is now running smoothly while maintaining a constant cooling temperature. The crew were very courteous, professional and efficient and I will definitely recommend TwinTech to family and friends. I much appreciated your great service.
Nancy M., Oshawa

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We had a great experience. The guys who installed our a/c did a nice job. Cleaned up.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

excellent crew, fast and efficient! Would call them again when I need a new furnace.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Professional, courteous and efficient, don’t need to say more than that! Use them you will not regret it.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech was a pleasure to deal with from the estimate through installation. We replaced a 28 year old a/c unit with one recommended by TwinTech's sales representative Dave who took the time to go over the product with us and answer any questions. The warranty is for 10 years parts and labour and they will complete the registration for you. Installation was by Greg (owner) and Mitch and Spencer who were quick and efficient and left everything clean and tidy.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very professional, from the sales consultation and inspection to the final installation. Met every expectations we had for the job. A local business with great client support. We highly recommend. Twintech is a blue chip! Thanks!

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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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