Cold-Climate Heat Pumps
See capacity in the cold, find your balance point, and choose smart lockout temps. This page adapts to your ZIP and design temperature.
Design Temp —
ZIP —
Tonnage —
Load vs Capacity
Heat pump capacity
Home heating load
Capacity curve uses typical low-ambient behavior for standard vs cold-climate variable-speed models. Load slope derives from size & envelope.
COP vs Outdoor Temperature
Coefficient of Performance
COP curve is representative; actual submittals vary by brand and model. Use this for planning; confirm with installer submittals.
All-Electric vs Dual-Fuel — What's right for you?
FAQ
Do heat pumps work at 5°F (or lower)?
Modern cold-climate units maintain meaningful capacity at 5°F and even below. The key is sizing to your design temperature and planning backup strategy.
What's a "balance point"?
Where the heat pump's capacity equals the home's heat loss. Above it, the HP carries the load. Below it, you need supplemental heat (strips or a furnace).
What is an "economic lockout"?
The outdoor temperature where the HP's cost per delivered BTU equals your fuel system. Below that temp, running the furnace may cost less.
Should I add electric strips?
Only as needed for defrost or rare extremes. Favor a right-sized cold-climate unit plus weatherization before adding large strips.