Overview
A heat pump moves heat rather than creating it. In summer it works like an air conditioner, pulling heat out of the house. In winter it reverses, extracting heat from outdoor air and bringing it inside. Because it moves heat instead of burning fuel, a heat pump can deliver more heat energy than the electricity it uses, which is why it has become a popular replacement option for both air conditioners and furnaces.
Modern cold-climate heat pumps are designed to keep producing heat at much lower outdoor temperatures than older models, though capacity generally drops as it gets colder. Many installations pair a heat pump with a backup heat source, such as electric resistance strips or an existing gas furnace in a dual-fuel setup, so the system can switch to the backup during the coldest periods.
Heat pumps come in ducted versions that connect to existing ductwork and ductless mini-split versions with wall, ceiling or floor heads. The best choice depends on whether the home has ducts in good condition, how many rooms need conditioning and how the household uses the space.
How it typically works
- Reviewing existing ductwork, electrical capacity and the location for the outdoor unit.
- Recommending a ducted, ductless or dual-fuel configuration with an explanation of trade-offs.
- Selecting a backup heat strategy appropriate for the climate.
- Installing the outdoor unit with adequate clearance, including snow clearance where relevant.
- Configuring controls, including the balance point at which backup heat engages.
- Explaining defrost cycles and normal operating sounds.
Things worth considering
- Cold-weather performance varies by model. Ask for the unit's rated capacity at low outdoor temperatures, not just its nominal size.
- Operating cost depends on local electricity and gas prices. A contractor can help compare scenarios, but rates change.
- Defrost cycles are normal. In cold, humid conditions the outdoor unit periodically defrosts, which can produce steam and brief noise.
- Placement matters for snow and drainage. Units are often raised on stands so meltwater can drain and snow doesn't block them.
- Controls affect efficiency. A thermostat that isn't set up for a heat pump may call for backup heat more often than needed.
- Incentives are frequently offered for heat pumps. Programs and eligibility rules change, so confirm current details.
Local notes for Denver
At higher elevations, thinner air affects combustion and airflow, and gas furnaces are often derated or configured for altitude according to manufacturer instructions. Ask whether equipment is set up for your elevation.
Colorado's dry climate means many households consider humidification in winter, while summer cooling loads can be significant on hot, sunny days. Large day-to-night temperature swings are also common.
We take inquiries from Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Littleton, Arvada, Westminster.
Before you send an inquiry
- Mention what you have already checked, such as the thermostat batteries and settings, the filter and the breaker.
- If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, leave the home and contact your gas utility or emergency services first, before sending any inquiry.
- Note the make, model and approximate age of your furnace, air conditioner or heat pump. The label is usually on the side of the unit or inside a panel.
- Note any rooms that are consistently too hot or too cold, which can point to duct or zoning issues.
- Say whether you own or rent, and whether the home has a basement, crawl space or attic access to the equipment.
When to keep looking
- Reluctance to show license or insurance information.
- No explanation of manufacturer warranty registration or labor warranty terms.
- A replacement recommendation without a load calculation or any measurement of the home.
- Quotes that leave out duct, electrical or venting changes that the new equipment will clearly need.
- Claims that equipment is dangerous without explaining the specific problem or showing you what was found.
Questions to ask a provider
- What is this unit's heating capacity at the coldest temperatures we usually see?
- Will my electrical panel need an upgrade?
- How will you set the balance point and thermostat for efficient operation?
- How do you protect the outdoor unit from snow and ice?
- Are there rebates or tax incentives I might qualify for, and do you help with paperwork?
- What maintenance does a heat pump need compared with an AC?
Frequently asked
- Do heat pumps work in cold climates?
- Cold-climate models are designed to produce heat at low outdoor temperatures, and many systems include backup heat for the coldest days. Performance depends on the specific model and installation.
- What is a dual-fuel system?
- A dual-fuel system pairs an electric heat pump with a gas furnace. The heat pump handles moderate weather and the furnace takes over when it is colder or when it's more economical.
- Why is steam coming from my heat pump in winter?
- That's typically the defrost cycle melting frost from the outdoor coil. It's normal operation.
Related topics
- Thermostats and Controls: Smart and programmable thermostats, zoning and controls, and what to ask an HVAC pro before upgrading.
- Ductwork and Indoor Air Quality: Duct sealing, repair, cleaning and indoor air quality options, plus what to ask an HVAC contractor.
- Furnace Repair and Replacement: What a furnace repair visit involves, signs a furnace may need replacing, and what to ask an HVAC contractor before you decide.
Tell us a little about what you need, and we'll get back to you about heat pumps.