What Temperatures Do Heat Pumps Work In?

A heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient methods to heat and cool your Fort Lauderdale home. That’s because they move warm or cold air, instead of making it. But not all families have been able to use this energy-saving technology. 

In the past, heat pumps were only recommended for temperate locations, because they lose efficiency when temperatures were close to or below freezing. When the heat pump couldn’t keep up, the heating system would then switch to pricier electric heat as an emergency heat source to keep the residence comfy. 

With new technology, heat pump systems are now great for chillier locations. Most can work well at much lower temperatures, although some may still need an auxiliary heating system if temperatures get too chilly. But it’s essential to note that today’s emergency heating equipment can also be more energy-efficient than previously. 

We’ll review the varying kinds of heat pumps so you can choose the best one for your home. 

Air Source Heat Pumps: Ideal for Moderate Locations 

Air source heat pumps are the most used kind of heat pump. They rely on an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler. These systems transfer heat from either the indoor air during the warm weather, or outside air during colder weather, keeping you cozy throughout the seasons. 

With advances in heat pump technology, these systems can now be added in a large range of climates. But it’s important to know that you will likely need an auxiliary source of heat if temperatures go below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This may include a dual-fuel system with a gas furnace. Heating switches between the two to give the most energy-efficient heating comfort all over your residence. 

Due to the need for dual-fuel systems in chillier climates, air source heat pumps are recommended locales without large temperature swings and lower heating requirements. 

Mini-Split Heat Pumps: Ideal for Rooms Without Ductwork in Colder Climates 

Mini-split heat pumps are one of the most flexible types of heat pumps as they don’t require ductwork. This means you can add them just about in any room in your house, like a garage or addition. They’re also extremely energy efficient, with most earning ENERGY STAR® designation. 

Mini-splits have an outdoor unit that joins to as many as four quiet, small indoor units mounted on your wall or ceiling. This provides you with zoned heating and cooling, with precise temperature control in each space. 

Outdoor air on even the most frigid days contains some heat that your ductless heat pump can catch and transfer indoors. Depending on the model you choose, some cold-weather mini-split heat pumps from Mitsubishi can work in temperatures as frigid as -13°F. 

Geothermal Heat Pumps: Best for Wide-Ranging Temperatures and Large Yards 

Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of balanced underground temperatures to tremendously lower your heating and cooling expenses, typically by 25%–50%! These systems have subterranean pipes to transfer heat to and from your house. 

Geothermal is quiet and can run a long time—about 25 years for the indoor unit and around 50 years for the loop. 

It doesn’t need a lot of service and is great if you reside in a climate with big temperature swings. A lot of the time, geothermal does not need an auxiliary heating system. 

However, you’ll require a good amount of space and the correct type of soil to install the underground loops. You should also be aware that installation is around $20,000–$25,000 for a 2,500-square foot home. Although the installation cost is pricier, continuing energy savings may help the equipment pay for itself over time. 

As geothermal saves a lot of energy, installing it may make you eligible for federal tax credits and other rebates from your area energy provider. 

We Guarantee You’ll Be Satisfied with Our Heat Pump Installation 

There’s a reason why we call our Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning heating and cooling specialists Experts. That’s since they have an A+ when it includes helping homeowners like you choose the right heat pump system for their house. 

But their work doesn’t stop with heat pump installation. We back our job with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee* for a year, since we want you to have the greatest comfort you can get from your new heat pump. 

And keep in mind special offers, rebates and financing for qualified customers. Getting a new heat pump is even more reasonable than you could think it is. Give us a call at 954-736-4314 to book your free home comfort assessment right away!