Can Heat Pumps Effectively Work in Cold Climates?

Tiffany Aspin
4 days ago
2 min read

When temperatures drop below freezing, many homeowners wonder if heat pumps can still provide reliable heating. Heat pumps have gained popularity as an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating systems, but their performance in cold climates often raises questions. This post explores how heat pumps work in cold weather, the technology behind them, and practical considerations for using heat pumps in chilly environments.

Eye-level view of a modern heat pump unit installed outside a snowy house — Heat pump unit outside a home during winter

How Heat Pumps Work in Cold Weather

Heat pumps transfer heat from the outside air into your home, even when it’s cold outside. They operate like air conditioners in reverse: instead of removing heat from indoors, they extract heat from the outdoor air and bring it inside. This process depends on a refrigerant cycle and a compressor to move heat efficiently.

In cold climates, the outdoor air contains less heat energy, which can reduce the heat pump’s efficiency. However, modern heat pumps use advanced technology to maintain performance at lower temperatures. For example, there is such a thing as a cold-climate heat pump.

What Is a Cold Climate Heat Pump?

A cold-climate heat pump is specifically engineered to:

Operate efficiently at lower outdoor temperatures
Maintain heating capacity below freezing
Reduce reliance on backup heat source

These modern heat pumps use advanced compressors, enhanced refrigerants and improved defrost modes and controls.

Do Heat Pumps Need Backup Heat?

In many Kelowna homes, the answer is yes. But not always!

Backup heat may includes:

Electric heaters, like baseboard heaters
A gas furnace (this is called Dual Fuel)
Or other supplemental heating sources, like a fireplace

Common Myths About Heat Pumps

"Heat Pumps don't work below freezing"

Modern cold-climate models absolutely do!

"They can't keep up during cold snaps"

When properly sized and paired with backup heat, they will maintain comfort.

"They are only made for mild climates"

Most of these concerns come from outdated equipment or poor installation.

Tips for Choosing and Using Heat Pumps in Cold Climates

To get the best performance from a heat pump in a cold region, consider these tips:

Select a heat pump rated for cold climate use with a high Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). We recommend Lennox's SL22KLV Cold-Climate Heat Pump
Ensure proper sizing by consulting with a qualified HVAC professional. Oversized or undersized units can reduce efficiency and comfort.
Maintain your heat pump regularly, including cleaning filters and checking for ice buildup.
Consider adding supplemental heating for extreme cold periods.
Look for available rebates or incentives for installing energy-efficient heat pumps.