What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Work In?

A heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient approaches to heat and cool your the U.S. residence. That’s due to the fact they transfer warm or cold air, instead of creating it. But not all families have been able to take advantage of this energy-saving technology. 

Previously, heat pumps were only suggested for temperate climates, as they lose efficiency when temperatures were close to or below freezing. When the heat pump couldn’t keep up, the heating system would then switch to more expensive electric heat as a secondary heat source to keep the home cozy. 

With modern technology, heat pump systems are now great for cold locations. Most can run properly at much lower temperatures, although some may still need a backup heating system if temperatures dip too low. But it’s important to know that today’s emergency heating equipment can also be more energy-efficient than before. 

We’ll review the different types of heat pumps so you can find the right one for your home. 

Air Source Heat Pumps: Best for Moderate Areas 

Air source heat pumps are the most common kind of heat pump. They have an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler. These systems shift heat from either the indoor air during the warmer weather, or outside air during colder weather, keeping you cozy year-round. 

With advances in heat pump technology, these systems can now be added in a wide range of climates. But it’s important to be aware that you will typically require a backup source of warmth if temperatures get colder than 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This could entail a dual-fuel system with a gas furnace. Heating changes between the two to deliver the most energy-efficient heating comfort all over your house. 

Due to the need for dual-fuel systems in colder climates, air source heat pumps are recommended locations without wide temperature swings and more moderate heating needs. 

Mini-Split Heat Pumps: Recommended for Rooms Without Ductwork in Cold Climates 

Mini-split heat pumps are one of the most versatile styles of heat pumps as they don’t have to have ductwork. This means you can add them just about anyplace in your residence, like a garage or addition. They’re also highly energy efficient, with the majority achieving ENERGY STAR® status. 

Mini-splits use an outdoor unit that links to as many as four quiet, small indoor units mounted on your wall or ceiling. This provides you with zoned heating and cooling, with exact temperature control in each space. 

Outdoor air on even the coldest days has some heat that your ductless heat pump can catch and send indoors. Depending on the kind you go with, some cold-weather mini-split heat pumps from Mitsubishi can work in temperatures as frigid as -13°F. 

Geothermal Heat Pumps: Ideal for Harsh Temperatures and Spacious Yards 

Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of stable underground temperatures to significantly decrease your heating and cooling costs, usually by 25%–50%! These systems rely on underground pipes to transfer heat to and from your home. 

Geothermal is quiet and can work for many years—around 25 years for the indoor unit and around 50 years for the loop. 

It doesn’t require a lot of service and is best if you live in an extreme climate. A lot of the time, geothermal does not need a secondary heating system. 

However, you’ll have to have a good amount of space and the correct type of soil to put in the underground loops. You should also know that installation can run around $20,000–$25,000 for a 2,500-square foot home. Although the installation cost is pricier, continuing energy savings may help the equipment pay for itself over time. 

Because geothermal is so efficient, adding it might qualify you for federal tax credits and other rebates from your area energy provider. 

We Guarantee You’ll Be Satisfied with Our Heat Pump Installation 

There’s a reason why we named our Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing heating and cooling technicians Experts. That’s because they have an A+ when it involves helping homeowners like you choose the ideal heat pump system for their residence. 

But their labor doesn’t stop with heat pump installation. We stand behind our job with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year, since we want you to enjoy the greatest comfort you can get from your new heat pump. 

And bear in mind special offers, rebates and financing for qualified customers. Getting a new heat pump is even more reasonable than you could think it is. Contact us at 866-397-3787 to request your free home comfort assessment today!