If you rely on a heat pump to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, you may have some concerns about winter. Many homeowners worry that their HVAC equipment will not be up to the challenge of heating their home in such cold weather, and others aren’t sure what settings are best to use on their thermostat. Here’s what every heat pump owner should know about the coldest time of the year.

What You Need to Know About Heat Pumps in the Winter

1. Your Heat Pump Will Still Work

If you know the equipment works by pulling heat from the outside air, you might not expect it to function correctly when the air is cold. However, there is always heat energy in the air outdoors, even in the winter. Your heat pump may need to work harder than usual, but it will still function.

2. Your Pump Needs to Defrost

Occasionally, your heat pump will automatically reverse, using the heat in your home to warm the outside apparatus and cause the thermostat to drop. This can be alarming if you aren’t expecting it, but it’s a necessary part of the cycle to remove icy buildup. You only need to worry if it happens frequently.

3. Don’t Use the Emergency Heat Setting

Many people notice that there is an “emergency heat” option on their pump controls and use it to warm up faster on cold days. However, this setting is just for emergencies. It’s inefficient and can bump up your heating and cooling costs significantly.

4. You May Need a Backup

If your heat pump doesn’t keep the house as warm as you’d like, you may need to add a secondary source of heat, like a furnace. The heat pump can still save you money and energy for most of the year, while the furnace lets you crank up the thermostat on the coldest days.

5. Maintenance Is Important

To avoid having your heat pump break down when you need it the most, it’s essential to maintain and inspect it regularly. Clean the area around the apparatus outside, so its vents won’t be clogged with plants and debris, and have a professional visit at least once a year to identify and fix any problems.

If you need to have your heat pump and thermostat inspected or repaired, contact Ron Hammes Refrigeration in La Crosse, WI. They serve La Crosse County with cost-effective maintenance, repairs, and installation, providing 24-hour service for your convenience. Their focus on precision, energy efficiency, and savings makes them the most trusted HVAC and refrigeration provider in the area. Call (608) 788-3110 or visit them online to schedule an inspection today.