What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Work In?

A heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat and cool your Dayton home. That’s since they move warm or cold air, instead of making it. But not everyone has been able to take advantage of this energy-saving technology.

In the past, heat pumps were only suggested for temperate areas, because they lose efficiency when temperatures were around or below freezing. When the heat pump couldn’t meet demand, the heating system would then switch to more costly electric heat as a backup heat source to keep the home cozy.

With new technology, heat pump systems are now great for cold areas. Most can run properly at much lower temperatures, although some might still need a secondary heating system if temperatures dip too low. But it’s essential to know that today’s backup heating solutions can also be more energy-efficient than previously.

We’ll go over the varying kinds of heat pumps so you can select the ideal one for your house.

Air Source Heat Pumps: Ideal for Moderate Areas

Air source heat pumps are the most used style 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 comfortable no matter the weather.

With advances in heat pump technology, these systems can now be added in a large range of climates. But it’s important to know that you will typically require an emergency source of heating if temperatures go below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This might include a dual-fuel system with a gas furnace. Heating switches between the two to deliver the most energy-efficient heating comfort throughout your house.

Because of the demand for dual-fuel systems in cold climates, air source heat pumps are best suited for locations without wide temperature swings and lower heating needs.

Mini-Split Heat Pumps: Recommended for Spaces Without Ductwork in Chillier Climates

Mini-split heat pumps are one of the most versatile styles of heat pumps since they don’t have to have ductwork. This means you can install them just about in any room in your home, like a garage or addition. They’re also extremely energy efficient, with the majority earning ENERGY STAR® designation.

Mini-splits work with an outdoor unit that joins to as many as four quiet, slim indoor units fixed 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 holds some heat that your ductless heat pump can use and send indoors. Depending on the kind you choose, some cold-weather mini-split heat pumps from Mitsubishi can run in temperatures as frigid as -13°F.

Geothermal Heat Pumps: Recommended for Wide-Ranging Temperatures and Large Yards

Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of even underground temperatures to drastically decrease your heating and cooling costs, typically by 25%–50%! These systems have buried pipes to shift heat to and from your house.

Geothermal isn’t disruptive and can last a long time—approximately 25 years for the indoor unit and about 50 years for the loop.

It doesn’t require a lot of upkeep and is great if you live in a climate where temperatures vary greatly. A lot of the time, geothermal does not require an auxiliary heating system.

However, you’ll need a lot of space and the ideal kind of soil to put in the underground loops. It’s also important to note that installation costs around $20,000–$25,000 for a 2,500-square foot home. Although the installation cost is high, lifelong energy savings could help the unit pay for itself as time passes.

As geothermal conserves a lot of energy, adding it could qualify you for federal tax credits and other rebates from your area energy provider.

We Guarantee You’ll be Pleased with Our Heat Pump Installation

There’s a reason why we refer to our Stevenson Service Experts heating and cooling technicians Experts. That’s because they have an A+ when it comes to helping homeowners like you find the right heat pump system for their home.

But their work doesn’t end with heat pump installation. We stand behind our work with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year, as we want you to have the greatest comfort available from your new heat pump.

And keep in mind special offers, rebates and financing for qualified customers. Installing a new heat pump is even more economical than you might think it is. Give us a call at 937-503-7896 to request your free home comfort assessment now!

*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.