If you’re wondering this question, then you already know that heat pumps are versatile systems that operate both in summer and winter. But now you want to know which season they’re best suited for; heat pump in the winter or in the summer? We’ve got the answer for you here, as well as some extra tips for optimal home comfort and efficiency!
Your Heat Pump in the Summer
During the summer, heat pumps function as air conditioners. They absorb heat from inside your home and release it outside, cooling your indoor space. Heat pumps can be very efficient at cooling, providing comfortable temperatures while using less energy compared to some traditional air conditioning systems.
Your Heat Pump in the Winter
Heat pumps also work in the winter. During colder months, heat pumps switch to heating mode. They extract heat from the outdoor air (even in cold temperatures) and transfer it indoors to warm up your home. There are different types of heat pumps, including ground-source and air-source. There are also cold climate heat pumps that operate well in temperatures as low as -30 C.
Heat Pumps for Year-round Home Comfort
So, heat pumps work in both the summer and winter as they’re dual-function HVAC systems. Keep in mind though, that heat pumps work most efficiently in more moderate climates. That means, that in extremely cold climates, it might be best to have a supplemental heat source for those really frigid temperatures. A cold climate heat pump might work for your climate, or you could have a hybrid heating system installed in your home.
Hybrid Heating System
For homes where the temperature regularly drops below -30 C, (like Ottawa), a hybrid heating system is an ideal solution. A hybrid heating system is a combination of a heat pump and another heat source, such as a furnace. This system provides maximum efficiency and maximum home comfort. Heat pumps are extremely efficient, but when the weather drops below a certain temperature, they do not operate at maximum efficiency. At this point, the secondary heat source would take over. In this way, a hybrid system allows for the highest level of efficiency and effectiveness.
Summer Cooling & Winter Heating
In summary, heat pumps are effective and energy-efficient options for both summer cooling and winter heating. While heat pumps function most efficiently in moderate climates, they’re capable of cooling and heating your space all year round. Due to their superior efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, there are grants and rebates available to help homeowners pay for the installation of heat pumps. This also includes hybrid heating systems. So, if you’re looking to replace your heating or cooling system, consider installing a heat pump.
For more info about heat pumps or heat pump rebates, contact us.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and to see our promos!
Team Harding has been Ottawa’s leading home comfort specialist since 1994. We are a family-owned and operated local business and all of our installers and technicians are fully licensed.
