A lot of the time, it can be challenging to keep your home cozy during the colder months without incurring costly heating bills. This is where heat pumps come into play. These cutting-edge HVAC systems work by obtaining heat from the air outdoors, regardless of whether it's cold outdoors, and transferring it to the inside of the house using a refrigerant liquid. But how does this procedure work? In this article, we're going to take a look at and clarify how it works during the winter so you can make informed decisions about how to use your heat pump most effectively to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long.
So, for more information, keep reading and let’s dive into it!
When it's cold outdoors, how do heat pumps function?
When it's cold outdoors during the winter, a heat pump still transfers heat from one spot to the next, but in the opposite direction. It moves heat from the outdoors to the interior rather than from the inside to the outside, successfully heating your residence.
Heat pumps work by absorbing heat energy from the surrounding air and transferring it to the air within your home via refrigerant. Pretty neat, hey? Yes, there is still heat in the air, even when it's cold outside! However, when it's incredibly frigid outdoors, there's not as much heat accessible for the heat pump to draw in. Therefore, if you live in an area where temperatures reach below -15 degree Celsius, you may want to install a supplementary heat source like a furnace or boiler. This type of dual system enables you to experience the benefits of a heat pump and a traditional heating system to save money in the winter.
For example, when temperatures are above -15 degrees Celsius, your home's heat pump will operate, enabling you to efficiently heat your home. However, as temperatures drop below this threshold, it will automatically switch to your backup heating source, which will prevent your heat pump from working overtime to try and keep up with your home's heating demands. In turn, this is going to allow you to remain as energy efficient as possible and save you money.
At what temperature is a heat pump rendered ineffective?
A heat pump can still operate at extremely low temperatures, but its operational effectiveness may suffer as the outside temperature decreases.
This is due to a reduction in the amount of heat available for the heat pump to absorb and transfer indoors. As the temperature outside drops, the heat pump has to function more vigorously and for longer to pull enough heat from the air to keep your residence warm. This can reduce the efficiency and performance of the heat pump and cost you more money on your monthly utility costs.
It's worth noting that modern heat pumps are built to work efficiently even in freezing temperatures. Many heat pumps use sophisticated technology to supply heat even when the outside temperature is below freezing. Some models can even run at temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius.
In winter, should the heat pump be running nonstop?
In the winter, it is normal for a heat pump to run for a longer duration of time, particularly when temperatures are extremely low. However, it is not uncommon for a heat pump to run continuously.
If your heat pump runs continuously without stopping, this could indicate there is something wrong with the system. This could be caused by a faulty thermostat, dirty or blocked air filters, or a coolant leak, among other things. In some cases, the heat pump might just be too small for the heating needs of your home.
If you recognize your heat pump running continuously, you should have it inspected by a professional HVAC technician. They will be able to diagnose the problem and make any necessary fixes or modifications to guarantee that your heat pump is operating correctly and effectively.
On the other hand, while some homeowners prefer to keep their home's heat pump operating at all times throughout the day, it may cost more money to do so each month. As such, you should also consider lowering the temperature indoors when you are away from your home or in the evening when you are sleeping, as it can lower your energy consumption while keeping up with your heating demands.
How do I protect my heat pump in the winter?
Winter weather can be harsh on your heat pump, but following a few simple precautions can help make sure it runs efficiently and reliably. Here are a few pointers to help you preserve your heat pump this winter:
- Clear the area around your heat pump of snow and debris in order to guarantee adequate ventilation.
- Check and replace air filters on a regular basis to ensure efficiency and avoid damage.
- To keep your heat pump functioning in good order, schedule professional service at least once a year with an HVAC technician.
- To save energy while minimizing the amount of wear and tear on your heat pump, use a thermostat with programmable settings.
- If you are located in an area where there is a lot of snow or ice, you should think about getting a heat pump shelter. Choose a cover made specifically for your heat pump and install it according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that ventilation is not disrupted or prohibited in any way. If you have any questions, be sure to ask the pros at furnaceguys for assistance, so you don’t damage your equipment!
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your heat pump runs effectively and consistently throughout the winter!
Are you thinking about installing a heat pump in your home? If so, you've come to the right place! With years of experience partnering with homeowners throughout Saskatoon, Caswell Hill, River Heights, Holliston, and the surrounding communities, homeowners can trust our crew to get the job done right.
Contact furnaceguys today to schedule an appointment with us for quality, reliable services you can count on any any time!
