If you're a homeowner in Maryland, you know how unpredictable winters can be. One day it's mild, the next, temperatures drop below freezing. If you rely on a heat pump, you might be wondering: Can my heat pump handle extreme cold? The short answer is yes—but not all heat pumps are created equal.
Many standard ducted heat pumps rely on auxiliary heating (also called "supplemental heat") when temperatures dip below 35°F. This backup heating, often powered by electric resistance, can be costly. But there’s a better option—one that Atlas Home Energy Solutions provides. The Bryant Evolution Series Heat Pump is specifically designed to work efficiently in freezing temperatures, producing heat even when the outdoor temperature drops as low as 4°F.
Heat pumps don’t generate heat like a furnace. Instead, they extract heat from the air—even when it's cold outside—and transfer it into your home. But as temperatures drop, traditional heat pumps become less efficient, which is when backup auxiliary heat kicks in.
The problem? Electric auxiliary heat, also known as electric resistance heating, is significantly more expensive to run than a heat pump operating at full efficiency. That’s why many homeowners see their energy bills skyrocket during the coldest months of the year.
With advancements in cold-climate heat pump technology, such as variable-speed compressors and inverter systems, modern heat pumps—like the Bryant Evolution Series—can extract heat even in extreme cold, significantly reducing the reliance on costly auxiliary heating.
Even with a high-efficiency heat pump, several factors affect how well it performs in freezing temperatures. Here’s how to optimize your system and keep energy bills under control:
An undersized heat pump will struggle to keep your home warm, especially in freezing temperatures. Atlas Home Energy Solutions can evaluate your system’s capacity and recommend upgrades if necessary.
Poor insulation and air leaks force your heat pump to work harder, reducing efficiency. Sealing ductwork with Aeroseal® can significantly improve airflow and reduce heat loss. In fact, government-sponsored studies have shown that sealing ductwork can save $850 per year in energy costs. A Home Energy Audit with Atlas can pinpoint where your home is losing heat and recommend targeted insulation improvements.
Regular maintenance ensures your system is running at peak efficiency all winter long.
Avoid sudden temperature increases, as this can trigger auxiliary heat to kick in and increase your energy bill. Use a smart thermostat to adjust temperatures gradually for efficiency.
A dual-fuel system with a backup gas furnace can help in extreme cold. Some heat pumps include built-in auxiliary heating that’s more cost-effective than traditional resistance heat.
If you're experiencing high energy bills, cold spots, or inefficient heating, it might be time to upgrade your HVAC system. Consider these improvements:
If your heat pump is struggling in freezing temperatures or your energy bills are higher than expected, Atlas Home Energy Solutions can help.
Call us today to schedule a Home Energy Audit or learn more about our HVAC Service Plan Subscriptions. We’ll help you identify the best solutions to maximize your comfort and energy savings—all winter long.
Visit AtlasHomeEnergy.com to learn more.
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