What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Work In?

A heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient approaches to heat and cool your Saint Charles home. That’s due to the fact they shift warm or cold air, instead of creating it. But not all homeowners have been able to use this energy-saving technology.

Previously, heat pumps were only advised for warmer climates, as they were less effective when temperatures were around or below freezing. When the heat pump couldn’t keep up, the heating system would then switch to more expensive electric heat as a backup heat source to keep the house comfortable.

With modern technology, heat pump systems are now great for chillier locations. Most can run well at much lower temperatures, although some may still need a secondary heating system if temperatures get too chilly. But it’s important to note that today’s emergency heating solutions can also be more energy-efficient than previously.

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

Air Source Heat Pumps: Right for Moderate Locations

Air source heat pumps are the most common style of heat pump. They use an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler. These systems shift heat from either the indoor air during the warm weather, or outside air during the winter, keeping you cozy throughout the seasons.

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

Because of the need for dual-fuel systems in chillier climates, air source heat pumps are recommended locations without big temperature swings and decreased heating demands.

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

Mini-split heat pumps are one of the most versatile styles of heat pumps because they don’t require ductwork. This means you can add them just about anyplace in your house, including a garage or addition. They’re also highly energy efficient, with most receiving ENERGY STAR® designation.

Mini-splits have an outdoor unit that connects to as many as four quiet, slim indoor units fixed on your wall or ceiling. This gives you the ability to have zoned heating and cooling, with precise temperature control in each room.

Outdoor air on even the coldest days contains some heat that your ductless heat pump can catch and transfer indoors. Depending on the kind you select, 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 Spacious Yards

Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of stable subsurface temperatures to drastically lower your heating and cooling costs, typically by 25%–50%! These systems use subterranean pipes to transfer heat to and from your home.

Geothermal doesn’t make a lot of noise and can work for many years—about 25 years for the indoor unit and around 50 years for the loop.

It doesn’t need a lot of service and is ideal if you live in a climate with big temperature swings. A lot of the time, geothermal does not need a secondary heating system.

However, you’ll need a large amount of space and the right kind of soil to install the underground loops. You should also know that installation can run around $20,000–$25,000 for a 2,500-square foot house. Although the installation cost is more expensive, lifelong energy savings could help the unit pay for itself over time.

As geothermal saves 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 Satisfied with Our Heat Pump Installation

There’s a reason why we named our Golden Seal Service Experts heating and cooling technicians Experts. That’s since they have an A+ when it comes to helping homeowners like you select the ideal heat pump system for their home.

But their work doesn’t stop with heat pump installation. We back our services with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year, as we want you to enjoy the greatest comfort you can receive from your new heat pump.

And bear in mind special offers, rebates and financing for qualified customers. Buying a new heat pump is even more reasonable than you could be aware. Contact us at 630-246-2698 to schedule 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.

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