Any resident in the Greater Toronto Area can understand how cold the Canadian weather truly is. -30 isn’t out of the norm here, so that means staying well heated indoors. For homeowners who own heat pumps, you may be wondering if heat pumps work in extremely cold temperatures. The short answer is, yes. Let’s dive in.

Why Heat Pumps Working in Cold Weather is Even A Question

Many years ago, when technology was less advanced, heat pumps did not actually have the best ability in functioning during outstandingly freezing temperatures. As the years went on, and heat pump technology improved, heat pumps have evolved to be effective in almost any temperature. Now, cold climate heat pumps can work up to -30 degrees Celsius (ambient temperature)

How Do Heat Pumps Work?
Heat pumps work by moving heat from one location to another. There are different types of heat pumps; ground source, air source, and water source. Ground source heat pumps transfer heat between the air inside a home and the ground outside a home, whereas air source heat pumps move heat between the air inside a home and the air outside a home. Meanwhile, water source heat pumps typically use a body of water, such as a lake, to heat the property.

Using Heat Pumps in Cold Temperatures
It is important to note that not all heat pumps will work in extremely cold temperatures. As mentioned earlier, heat pumps have recently improved to withstand the cold weather. It was about a decade ago where this upgrade was seen. So, if you by any chance own a heat pump older than 2010, it’s likely it may not be effective in the harsh winters. Unsure if your heat pump will withstand the cold? Schedule an appointment with a certified technician from Maple Air Heating and Cooling, serving the Greater Toronto Area, to have your heat pump inspected.

Cold Climate Heat Pumps
When searching for a heat pump that can withstand extremely low temperatures, make sure you are looking for a cold climate heat pump. Cold climate heat pumps are part of the air source category and can endure temperatures up to -30 degrees Celsius. This type of heat pump can significantly decrease your carbon footprint due to the fact that it replaces the commonly used fossil fuel heating system. There are two main types of cold climate heat pumps:

1. Centrally ducted: This system has a unit outdoors as well as a coil situated in the home’s ductwork. It works by having the outdoor unit gather the heat from outside and allocating it to the indoor coil. When air passes over the coil, it distributes the heated air that it picks up from the coil.
2. Ductless: A ductless system functions similarly to the centrally duct system, however it does not require any ductwork.

Save on Energy and Energy Bills
When you opt for installing a heat pump in your home you may qualify for the Canada Greener Homes Grant. This grant encourages and aids homeowners in making their space more energy efficient. Participants are eligible for up to $5,600 total under the initiative. 

Heating Solutions in The Greater Toronto Area
Heat pumps are a popular choice for the energy savings they provide. Additionally, they are idolized for their clean energy. However, when it comes to living in a country known for its cold climate, there are other options to choose from when it comes to heating your home. The options are all personal and up to your wants and needs. Some alternative heating options you can choose to help provide heat in your Toronto home this winter include; furnace, fireplace, and boiler.

Looking to prepare your home with optimal comfort this winter season? Contact our team at Maple Air Heating and Cooling, serving the Greater Toronto Area, to discuss the most ideal heating option for your space!