December in Bel Air brings freezing mornings and icy nights, making it natural to worry about whether your heat pump can keep your home warm. Heat pumps are efficient year-round, but many homeowners aren’t sure how they perform in freezing temperatures.
Understanding how your heat pump works in the cold can help you stay comfortable, avoid damage, and reduce unnecessary energy costs.
How Heat Pumps Handle Freezing Weather
- Cold-Weather Operation – Modern heat pumps are designed to work in temperatures well below freezing, but they do become less efficient as temperatures drop. Your system may run longer to maintain your set temperature.
- Defrost Cycles – Frost or ice can build on the outdoor unit during freezing weather. Heat pumps automatically enter defrost mode to melt ice, which can temporarily make your system blow cooler air.
- Backup Heat – Some heat pumps include auxiliary or backup heating (usually electric coils) for extreme cold. This ensures your home stays warm even when the heat pump alone isn’t enough.
- Thermostat Behavior – Heat pumps respond differently to sudden temperature changes. Rapid drops outside can cause the system to run more frequently or activate backup heat.
Tips for Running Your Heat Pump in Winter
- Keep the Thermostat Steady: Avoid large temperature swings; gradual changes reduce system strain.
- Ensure Proper Airflow: Keep vents and filters clean so warm air circulates efficiently.
- Check Outdoor Unit Clearance: Remove snow, ice, and debris around the unit to maintain proper airflow.
- Schedule Winter Maintenance: A professional tune-up ensures your heat pump is ready for prolonged cold spells.
When to Call the Experts
If your heat pump struggles to heat your home, makes unusual noises, or your energy bills spike unexpectedly, it’s time to call a professional. Early detection prevents costly repairs and keeps your system running efficiently all winter.
Let Aire Serv of Bel Air Help
At Aire Serv of Bel Air, our trained technicians specialize in keeping heat pumps performing at their best—even in freezing temperatures. From inspections and maintenance to system troubleshooting, we make sure your home stays warm, efficient, and safe all winter long. Contact us today to schedule a winter check-up!
