Navigating through the myriad of heating options available for residential spaces, heat pumps have emerged as a notably efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners, especially in diverse climates. But which type of heat pump claims the crown for being the most efficient, and is there a necessity for a backup source in colder climates? Let’s delve into these aspects, guided by insights from various experts in the field.

The Pinnacle of Efficiency: Cold-Climate Heat Pumps

While air-source heat pumps are common and can reduce electricity use for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric resistance heating, for cold climates, a specific type of heat pump, known as a cold-climate heat pump, reigns supreme in efficiency¹. These pumps, equipped with a variable-speed compressor powered by an inverter, are designed to work efficiently and effectively in the deepest freeze of winter, the most oppressive summer afternoon, and all the milder days in between^2,3.

The Necessity of a Backup Source in Cold Climates

While some high-efficiency heat pumps are equipped with a desuperheater, which can provide hot water, most heat pumps do not require a backup source in cold climates¹. Cold-climate heat pumps are designed to work well in cold climates without needing a backup system3. However, a supplemental heat source might be necessary to back up a heat pump system when temperatures reach below their minimum operating temperature⁵. In very few extreme cases where heating is deemed essential, and the environment is extremely cold, it may be prudent to have a backup system, but this is the case for any other heating system3.

Conclusion

Heat pumps, particularly cold-climate variants, stand out for their efficiency and capability to provide a comfortable, sustainable heating solution. While they demonstrate formidable performance even in colder climates, the incorporation of a backup source, especially in regions experiencing prolonged subfreezing temperatures, ensures consistent, economical, and efficient heating. As we embrace these technologies, it’s pivotal to understand and optimize them according to our residential climates and needs, ensuring a warm, sustainable future.

Credits and Sources

This blog post synthesizes information from the following sources:

1. Can Heat Pumps Actually Work in Cold Climates? – Consumer Reports.
2. Do heat pumps work in cold climates? – Termo Plus.
3. The Best Cold Climate Heat Pumps — December 2022 – Carbon Switch.