Do Heat Pumps Work in Cold Climates? | Ensuring Max Efficiency

The first large-scale heat pump in the UK was developed by John Sumner in 1945. Today, the total number of heat pumps across Europe has gone up to 17 million. According to The Comfort Zone study conducted in Europe, (88%) are satisfied with their switch to heat pumps, because of costs saved and efficiency during all seasons.

Are Heat Pumps Effective in Cold Climates?

Just like we’ve utilized SEER Rating to measure the cooling efficiency of Heat Pumps and other devices, we look at HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) to see how efficiently our Heat pumps are functioning in cold climates. 

What is HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor)?

HSPF is the rating of total heating output in British Thermal Units, divided by the energy used in that process measured in kilowatt-hours. The higher this HSPF rating, the more efficient your heat pump is, which will lower your energy bills. According to the Department of Energy Standards in 2015, the split system HSPF for Split Heat Pumps should be 8.2 or higher and Space Constrained Heat Pumps should have an HSPF of 7.4. 

Best Temperature for Your Heat Pump in the Winter

Always keep your Heat Pump running on a steady temperature. Heat Pumps work best with the ‘set it and forget it’ method rather than fluctuating the temperatures to too high or too low.  We know that switching off your heat pump while away may be tempting in order to save costs, but re-starting heat pumps commonly takes more energy than if you were to leave it running. 

How to Make a Heat Pump More Efficient in Winter?

According to Energy.Gov, you can save energy in the winter
by setting the thermostat to around 68°F when awake and
setting it lower at night or when away from home.

Why is Your Heat Pump Not Keeping Your House Warm?

There can be several reasons why your heat pump is not keeping your house warm. Let’s list the most common ones below.

1. Check Your Heat pump Size
   You are unlikely to face this issue if your Heat Pump has been installed by Professionals. Either way, if you are facing the issue of inadequate heating or cooling in your home, the equipment may not have been sized according to the square footage of your home. Expert consultation is recommended in such a scenario to avoid further problems.
   You can contact us here. 
   

2. Air Filter Might Be Clogged
   Just like the exterior of the heat pump, the air filters should not be blocked with snow, dust or objects. Make sure those are cleaned and checked regularly for maximum
   efficiency of your heat pump.
   

3. Outdoor Unit May Be Blocked
   Never cover your heat pump with any screen, fabric, or other objects. The heat pump should be free from leaves, snow, dust, twigs etc. Our INNOVA requires no external condenser, so it avoids this problem, saves you money on installation costs and keeps the aesthetic appearance of your building. Two duct holes of 6” each are used instead of a bulky external condenser.
   

4. Not Closing Doors and Windows While Heat Pump Is On
   Similar to standard heating and cooling, open windows will put extra energy needed from the heat pump to maintain the temperature of the home, and consume more energy.
   

5. The Thermostat Is Located In An Obstructed Location
   The thermostat should be placed on a higher, inside wall of the house, not in direct contact with the sunlight. It should not be obstructed with furniture or blinds and should allow
   air to freely circulate around it.
   

6. Excessive Frosting On The Heat Pumps
   It is normal for a heat pump coil to be covered in a small amount of frost when it's snowing, but it shouldn’t be covered heavily. The INNOVA operates down to extremely low temperatures, with an optional 1,000W electric resistance backup heater available.  In heating mode, the drain pan is constantly kept warm to prevent any risk of condensate freezing.

Heat Pump Maintenance - When Is The Right Time To Service Your Heat Pump?

It is best to get your heat pump checked by an Expert before the winter months begin to ensure maximum output during the winter and to adjust anything that needs to be fixed. We recommend a consultation once every year or bi-yearly for maximum results and the lowest energy bills. 

References

1. Finn Geotherm UK Limited. (2022, December 12). What is a heat pump? History and information about heat pump technology. Finn Geotherm. https://finn-geotherm.co.uk/the-history-of-heat-pumps/

2. (2022, March 28). Europe’s booming demand for heat pumps exposes bottlenecks. https://www.euractiv.com/section/energy- environment/news/europes-booming-demand-for-heat-pumps-exposes-bottlenecks/

3. EUROPEAN USERS’ PERCEPTION OF RENEWABLE HEATING PERFORMANCE. (2022, January). https://www.coolproducts.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/EEB-Heat-Pump-Comfort-Audit-Report-Factsheet.pdf

4. Explaining Central Air Conditioner & Heat Pump Standards. (n.d.). U.S. Department of Energy. https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2015/11/f27/CAC%20Brochure.pdf

5. Programmable Thermostats. (n.d.). Energy.gov. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/programmable-thermostats