Are Heat Pumps a Good Option in Cold Weather?
Heat pumps are an excellent heating and cooling solution for many homes, including here in Connecticut. They are highly efficient, environmentally friendly, and work great for most of the year. However, during extreme cold temperatures—like the ones expected this weekend—it’s important to understand their limitations and plan accordingly.
How Heat Pumps Perform in Cold Climates
Heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outdoor air and bringing it inside your home. As outdoor temperatures drop, there is less heat available to extract. While modern cold-climate heat pumps can still operate at lower temperatures, their efficiency decreases significantly as temperatures fall.
Why Backup Heat Matters in Extreme Cold
Once outdoor temperatures drop very low, a backup heat source becomes essential. In Connecticut, electricity costs are currently close to $0.34 per kilowatt-hour, which makes electric resistance backup heat expensive to run.
At these rates:
• Electricity can cost more than heating with oil or natural gas
• Relying solely on electric backup heat during extreme cold can lead to unexpectedly high utility bills
That’s why a properly designed system includes a secondary heat source, such as oil, gas, or another supplemental option, to maintain comfort without breaking the bank.
The Financial Upside: Connecticut Heat Pump Rebates
Despite these considerations, heat pumps remain a smart investment, especially with the generous incentives available in Connecticut.
Homeowners can receive:
• $1,000 per ton of cooling capacity
• 12,000 BTUs = 1 ton of cooling
These rebates can significantly reduce upfront installation costs and make heat pumps a cost-effective long-term solution when paired with the right backup heat strategy.
The Bottom Line
Heat pumps are a fantastic option for Connecticut homes—but they work best as part of a balanced heating system. With proper design, a reliable backup heat source, and available rebates, homeowners can enjoy efficiency, comfort, and savings year-round—even in colder climates.
If you’re considering a heat pump or want to make sure your current system is set up correctly for extreme cold, now is the time to review your options. At Celco, we’re dedicated to meeting the heating and cooling needs of residents throughout Darien, Fairfield, Milford, Monroe, Norwalk, Shelton, Stamford, Stratford, Trumbull, Westport, and the surrounding Connecticut communities. Contact us today to learn more about our heat pump services or to schedule an appointment with a member of our team!
