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Cold Climate Heat Pump

It’s a myth that you can’t have a heat pump efficiently heat your home if you live in a colder climate. Air source heat pump technology has evolved to meet the heating and cooling needs of homeowners in the coldest climates. That includes the Northeast, upper Midwest, and even Alaska.

What is a Cold Climate Heat Pump?

A unit rated by ENERGY STAR® as a cold climate heat pump (CCHP)  has met more stringent requirements for operating in colder temperatures than your average heat pump. Products undergo verification by a third party recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Cold climate heat pumps work the same as any heat pump. In winter, they take the heat energy from the outside air, draw it into the unit, and use that heat energy to heat the air inside your home.

Benefits of Using a Heat Pump in a Cold Climate

There are numerous benefits of using a heat pump in a cold climate, including:

  • CCHPs are more efficient heating systems than gas furnaces.
  • You may save money on your heating bills. (Electricity is cheaper than natural gas, propane, or fuel oil.)
  • They may reduce carbon emissions.
  • They may be eligible for $2,000 federal tax credits

If you’re looking to save money on future utility bills or reduce your carbon footprint by using clean energy, a CCHP could be a good heating solution for you. As a bonus, the heat pump will air condition your home during those heat waves that are becoming more common in northern climes.

Key Features to Look for in a Cold Climate Heat Pump

Look for a heat pump that has qualified for the ENERGY STAR® cold climate heat pump designation. When you search for products on the site, check the Cold Climate box and the brands you’re interested in to filter your results.

To get the cold climate designation, this means the heat pump will have:

  • High efficiency and energy-saving capabilities
  • Suitable performance in low temperatures (efficient down to 5 degrees)

Other features to look for that are not required, but can enhance the performance of your unit include:

  • A defrosting mechanism for optimal performance in cold weather
  • Variable-speed compressor
  • Powered by an inverter
  • Noise reduction technology for quiet operation

To get the highest efficiency, greatest reduction in energy consumption, biggest cost savings, and longest life out of your heat pump, it’s crucial that you work with an HVAC contractor experienced with CCHP systems. You will also want to make your home more energy efficient by sealing around doors and windows and adding insulation. You want to minimize heat loss.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cold Climate Heat Pumps

Q: Can a heat pump effectively heat a home in extremely cold temperatures?

A:  Yes. When a high-quality variable-speed heat pump is paired with a gas furnace, you can stay comfortably warm on an average cold day or during the polar vortex. These systems are known as dual fuel systems or hybrid systems.

Q: How does a heat pump compare to other heating options in cold climates?

A: A heat pump utilizes electricity rather than burning fossil fuels. It is cleaner than a wood fire, as well. In addition, with a mini-split heat pump or ductless heat pump, you can heat and cool a cabin, older home, garage, or workshop that doesn’t have ductwork.

Q: What is the average lifespan of a cold climate heat pump?

A: Heat pumps of all types generally last about 15 years if they’re properly installed and maintained.

Trane and Cold Climate Heat Pump Technology

Trane is an industry leader in the development of reliable cold-climate heat pumps. Currently, for people who get extremely low temperatures in the winter, we advise implementing a hybrid system where you have a variable speed heat pump that can handle temperatures down to 5 degrees, with a paired gas furnace that kicks in at even colder temperatures. 

But the technology is changing. Trane Technologies is partnering with the Department of Energy (DOE) in their Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge to develop new cold-climate heat pumps that deliver 100% heating capacity without the use of auxiliary heat and with significantly higher efficiencies at 5 degrees Fahrenheit. 

When tested at the DOE’s lab, Trane’s CCHP prototype performed in temperatures as low as negative 23 degrees Fahrenheit, surpassing the mandatory negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit DOE requirement. 

According to the DOE, the next phase of the Challenge is expected to involve the installation and monitoring of more than 23 prototypes from different manufacturers in various cold-climate locations throughout the U.S. and Canada over the next year. 

Wondering if a cold climate heat pump or dual-fuel system might be an energy-efficient and cost-effective way to heat and cool your home? Contact your local Trane dealer to arrange an in-home consultation and get a free quote.

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