Can a Heat Pump Keep You Comfortable in Winter at -20°C?

David Archer
Nov 19
4 min read

***Let's Ask The All Knowing, All Trusting Great God of Energy Savings!***

Can or Will a Heat Pump keep me comfortable in Winter when the outdoor temperature drops to -20c?

GGoES: Well, it depends on a number of conditions being met, but typically, YES, now, with new digital control and HVACR system technology a comfortable control can be achieved 24/7. And NO, once again, pending certain conditions prevailing like, humidity, wind, installation, insulation and building conditions, and further temperature drops over extended time frames... Do Your Research.

And from me, Professor Archer, in Canada, or in any environment where temperatures drop to -20°C, or below for 2 to 3 days, weeks, months, or more of the year, staying warm indoors becomes a top priority. There are many factors to consider. Heat Content of the air conditions is affected

And with all the energy rebates for modernizing energy consumption in and around our domestic applications, many homeowners wonder if a heat pump can handle such extreme cold, and still keep their homes cozy?

And what happens if they end these rebates for Heat Pumps? Are they still a great idea, cost wise, and practicality wise?

And when all is said and done... WHO DO WE TRUST FOR ADVICE? The sales person? The Contractor? The Government? A friend who has a friend, that has a friend in the HVACR industry. And which is the best system? Who are the best installers and service people? Fair Costs? How much does the least expensive system cost? And, the MOST expensive? Do we need to perform routine maintenance? Who do we turn to for a completely unbiased opinion that we can blindly trust, and that NO one can debate?

The Great God of Energy Savings, and his Mother, Mother Nature...more on them another time.

Heat pumps have gained popularity as energy-efficient heating solutions, but their performance in severe winter conditions raises questions. This post explores whether you can truly rely on a heat pump to maintain comfort during harsh winters.

How Heat Pumps Work in Cold Weather

Heat pumps transfer heat from the outside air into your home, even when it’s cold outside. Unlike traditional heaters that generate heat by burning fuel or using electric resistance, heat pumps move existing heat. This process uses less energy and can reduce heating costs.

At temperatures around freezing, heat pumps work efficiently by extracting heat from the air. But as the temperature drops below freezing, the amount of heat available outside decreases. This makes it harder for the heat pump to maintain indoor warmth without extra effort.

Performance Challenges at -20°C

At -20°C, the air contains very little heat energy. Heat pumps must work harder to extract warmth, which can reduce their efficiency. Some older or basic models may struggle to keep up, leading to:

Longer run times
Increased electricity use
Lower indoor temperatures

However, modern cold-climate heat pumps are designed to operate effectively at temperatures as low as -25°C or even colder. These units use advanced compressors, improved refrigerants, and enhanced defrost cycles to maintain performance.

Choosing the Right Heat Pump for Extreme Cold

Not all heat pumps are built the same. To ensure reliable heating at -20°C, consider these factors:

Cold climate rating: Look for models tested and rated for very low temperatures.
Backup heating: Some systems include electric resistance heaters or gas furnaces for backup when outdoor temperatures drop too low.
Proper sizing: A heat pump sized correctly for your home will perform better and maintain comfort.
Installation quality: Professional installation ensures optimal airflow, insulation, and system setup.

Many manufacturers now offer cold climate heat pumps specifically designed for northern regions with harsh winters.

Real-World Examples of Heat Pumps in Cold Winters

In places like Canada, Alaska, and northern Europe, heat pumps have become common even in areas with long, cold winters. Studies and homeowner reports show:

Heat pumps can maintain indoor temperatures comfortably at 22°C when outdoor temperatures are at -20c or above, properly selected, designed, and installed.
Energy savings compared to electric resistance heating can reach from 30-50% operating efficiencies as well rebates and grants from government sources.
Backup heating rarely activates except during extreme cold snaps below -25°C.

**Common Sense Will Show You, You Need A Reliable Heating System In This Kind of COLD.**

For example, a study by the Canadian government found that modern heat pumps provided reliable heating in homes across Quebec and Ontario, even during cold spells.

Tips to Maximize Heat Pump Efficiency in Winter

To get the best performance from your heat pump during cold weather, try these tips:

Keep outdoor units clear of snow and ice to maintain airflow.
Seal and insulate your home well to reduce heat loss.
Use a programmable thermostat to optimize heating schedules.
Schedule regular maintenance to keep the system running smoothly.

These steps help your heat pump work efficiently and keep your home warm without excessive energy use.

Final Thoughts on Heat Pumps at -20°C

Heat pumps can keep you comfortable during winter at -20°C if you choose the right model and maintain your system well. Modern cold climate heat pumps are engineered to handle extreme cold and offer significant energy savings compared to traditional heating methods.