When winter hits hard and the temperatures in Kentucky dip below freezing, many homeowners start to wonder why their heat pump seems to lose efficiency right when they need it most. If you’ve noticed your system struggling to keep up, you’re not alone. When it comes to reliable heating in Ashland, understanding how your heat pump works—and why it sometimes can’t deliver peak performance in extreme cold—can help you stay warm and avoid costly surprises.
At Air Supreme, we’ve helped countless homeowners make sense of their heating systems during the toughest months of the year. Let’s break down why your heat pump might not perform as well when the mercury drops and what you can do to keep your home comfortable.
How a Heat Pump Works
A heat pump operates by transferring heat rather than generating it. During the winter, it pulls warmth from the outdoor air and moves it indoors to heat your home. This process is energy-efficient and works wonderfully in mild to moderate winter conditions. But when temperatures drop below freezing, there’s simply less heat energy available in the air for your system to capture.
As a result, your heat pump has to work much harder—and run longer—to maintain your desired indoor temperature. You may even notice your system switching to “defrost mode” periodically, which helps prevent ice buildup on the outdoor coil but also temporarily reduces heating output.
The Impact of Extreme Cold
Once outdoor temperatures fall below 32°F, your heat pump’s efficiency can drop dramatically. If the temperature plunges into the teens or single digits, it can struggle to keep up entirely. When this happens, your auxiliary or backup heat (often electric resistance heat or a gas furnace) will kick in to help out.
While that backup heat ensures your home stays warm, it also consumes more energy, leading to higher utility bills. This is one of the most common reasons homeowners notice a spike in their heating costs during cold snaps.
How to Help Your Heat Pump Perform Better
There are several steps you can take to help your heat pump run efficiently, even when it’s freezing outside:
- Keep Your Unit Clean and Clear: Make sure there’s no snow, ice, or debris blocking your outdoor unit. Restricted airflow can drastically reduce performance.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Professional tune-ups ensure your system is running efficiently and can identify issues before they cause breakdowns.
- Use a Smart Thermostat: Avoid frequent temperature adjustments. A consistent setting helps your system run more smoothly.
- Add Supplemental Heat: Consider pairing your heat pump with a gas furnace or other backup heat source for optimal comfort and efficiency in extreme cold.
Stay Warm This Winter With Air Supreme
If your heat pump struggles every winter, it might be time to explore your options. Whether you need a repair, system upgrade, or a supplemental heating solution, our team is here to help. We’re dedicated to keeping your home comfortable no matter what the weather brings. Stay cozy, save energy, and enjoy peace of mind this winter.
