Can a heat pump really work in Edmonton during the Winter?

Heat pumps are a hot topic here in Alberta, and as one of the best HVAC cleaning companies in Edmonton, we get a lot of questions about these efficient HVAC systems. Whether you are new to the HVAC space or are looking for a new heating and cooling system, it is time to talk about heat pumps and whether they actually work in northern climates like Edmonton. We will give you a hint: for 99% of Edmonton residents, a heat pump could be a great option for their HVAC needs. 

What is a Heat Pump

Heat pumps are among the most efficient HVAC systems on the market, and with increasing popularity here in Canada and northern Europe, today's models can rival natural gas furnaces as the best residential HVAC systems. Besides their efficiency, one of the biggest benefits is that you are investing in a heating and cooling system with year-round comfort built in, as a heat pump will act as your furnace and air conditioner all-in-one. Heat pumps are extremely versatile and can be connected to ductwork or be ductless, with multi-zone or single-zone set-ups.

How a Heat Pump Works

These systems work by using the refrigerant cycle. In winter, an outdoor coil absorbs heat from the outdoor air, and a compressor pressurizes the refrigerant as it leaves the coil, increasing its temperature. As the refrigerant moves indoors, it releases heat from the indoor coil into your home. During the summer, the process is reversed: the indoor coil absorbs heat from your home, and the exterior coil releases it to the environment.

What are the benefits of a Heat Pump

There are a ton of benefits of investing in a heat pump system in Edmonton

• They provide heating and cooling without the need to invest in an additional HVAC system
• They run on electricity and do not require a natural gas line, fuel oil or propane.
• They 100% to 200% more efficient than a traditional gas furnace
• They are 300% more efficient than electric baseboard heaters
• They are 50% more efficient than window-mounted AC units
• They are designed for northern life and can handle Edmonton's cold winters with ease
• They have amazing manufacturer warranties

Today's Heat Pumps Work in Colder Temperatures

One of the big knocks on heat pumps when they first were launched in the Canadian market was their inability to adequately heat homes in frigid temperatures. Although this was once true, today's purpose-built inverter systems make this no longer the case. These cold-weather systems can work comfortably down to -30. In fact, testing conducted by the Yukon Department of Energy, Mines and Resources found that some heat pump systems achieved 200% efficiency even at -18 degrees Celsius.

Extreme Cold Backup Systems

Over the last decade, Edmonton has experienced about 10 days per year with temperatures of -30 or lower. During these times, your heat pump may need a little help heating your home, so you may want to use a supplemental heat source. These backup systems can range from a natural gas furnace to an electric heater within the system, but what matters is that they can supplement your heat and keep you toasty during deep freezes.

A heat pump is a great option for those looking for an all-in-one air conditioner and heating system. As one of the top heat pump cleaners in Edmonton, we can work with you to to clean up your pump and get it ready for the year ahead. From multi-zone to single split, the perfect heat pump is out there, and when we clean your pump you will be able to enjoy a year-round heating and cooling solution that you and your family will love.