Minnesota winters are cold. Temperatures often drop below freezing, and the common precipitation during this time is freezing rain, sleet, ice, and snow. The summers, however, are hot and humid. If you understand how heat pumps work, you might be skeptical about their ability to keep you warm during the cold months. Here’s what you should know.

Heat Pumps Air Conditioning Process

All this is made possible by a highly volatile compound known as a refrigerant. The refrigerant can easily change its state to absorb even the smallest amount of heat available and efficiently transfer it to another location.

For example, if the air outside is as cold as 35°F, the refrigerant will get colder, even just 20°F. Since heat naturally moves from higher to lower temperatures, in this case, the outside air will transfer its heat to the colder refrigerant. The refrigerant, now slightly warmed, travels to the compressor, which compresses it to high pressure and temperature, turning it into a hot gas.

The hot refrigerant gas is pumped to the indoor coils, where it releases its heat into the indoor air, making your home feel warmer.

The Challenge in Minnesota

The fact is that Minnesota’s winter is extremely cold. The state can go for weeks or even a month with temperatures never getting above 0°F. On those days, a heat pump may struggle to efficiently extract heat from the freezing outdoor air. Standard air-source heat pumps are typically rated to operate efficiently down to 32°F, though many cold-climate models now function effectively down to 5°F or even -5°F.

You will need to invest in a backup heating system and integrate it with your central heat pump. When the temperature drops too low, usually below 30–35°F, the thermostat can signal the auxiliary heat system to provide additional heat.

Auxiliary heating systems commonly used in northern regions include gas furnaces and electric resistance heat strips. Gas furnaces are better at providing cozy indoor temperatures during the cold months because they generate heat by burning natural gas.

Electric resistance heat strips are often installed in the indoor air handling unit to provide supplemental heat. They work through the principle of electrical resistance. When electricity flows through the strips, it encounters resistance, which converts into heat energy. The indoor unit fans then blow this heat into your rooms, keeping you as warm as you desire.

Should You Still Invest in a Heat Pump?

Yes! Heat pumps offer many great benefits in Minnesota, including:

1. Year-Round Comfort

Heat pumps provide both warm and cool air for homes. Most versions use a reversible refrigeration cycle, allowing them to extract heat from the warm indoor air and expel it outside during summer. This means that with a heat pump, you don’t need a separate air conditioner for the hot months.

Besides, the coldest months in Minnesota when you may need supplemental heating are December, January, and February. A heat pump can effectively manage the other months of the year.

2. Energy Efficiency

A heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient HVAC systems you can install in a home. They can be up to 300–400% efficient, meaning for every unit of electricity they consume, they can produce up to three to four units of heating or cooling.

This high efficiency is because they don’t generate heat; instead, they transfer existing heat from one location to another. Moreover, modern heat pumps now come with advanced features such as variable-speed compressors and smart thermostats, which further enhance energy-saving capabilities. Depending on usage and your previous system, you could save up to 30–60% on yearly energy costs.

3. Lower Carbon Footprint

Heat pumps use electricity to operate, which can be powered by renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. By relying on electricity instead of fossil fuels for heating, heat pumps can significantly reduce your home’s carbon footprint.

4. Safer and Healthier Home

Heat pumps don’t burn fossil fuels, which means carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning won’t be a concern in your home. CO is a colorless and odorless gas that often goes unnoticed until symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea appear. Additionally, many heat pumps are available in ductless models. Ducts can contribute to poor indoor air quality by collecting and distributing dust, debris, and mold spores. They can also harbor pests. By opting for a ductless heat pump, you can avoid these issues and create a healthier living environment. Their filters also help reduce humidity during the hot, humid months, limiting mold and dust mite growth.

5. Quiet Operation

Heat pumps are generally quieter than traditional HVAC systems. They incorporate vibration-absorbing pads, insulated cabinets, and optimized airflow to minimize noise. If you install a system with a variable-speed compressor, the sound level will be even lower. Variable-speed compressors adjust their power based on your heating needs, meaning they won’t run at full capacity when not necessary. You can enjoy subdued sound levels ranging from 40 to 50 decibels, similar to a whisper.

Considerations When Looking for a Heat Pump in Minnesota

The primary consideration when looking for a heat pump in Minnesota is cold-climate capability or dual-fuel systems. Cold-climate heat pumps are specifically designed to operate efficiently in sub-zero temperatures. Alternatively, dual-fuel or hybrid systems combine the efficiency of a heat pump with the reliability of a natural gas furnace. The heat pump handles heating needs during mild winter weather, while the furnace takes over when temperatures drop below 30–35°F.

Next, consider energy efficiency. The minimum SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) and HSPF2 (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor 2) ratings for heat pumps in the northern regions are 14.3 and 7.5, respectively. SEER2 measures cooling efficiency, while HSPF2 measures heating efficiency.

Higher ratings provide better energy savings. Look for systems with the ENERGY STAR® label, which certifies that the heat pump meets strict efficiency standards.

Lastly, proper sizing is critical. An appropriately sized unit will operate optimally and efficiently. Consult a professional HVAC contractor to calculate your home’s heating and cooling load to determine the right heat pump for you.

Contact One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® for More Information

Call One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® for professional heat pump installation and maintenance in Minnesota. Our highly qualified and experienced technicians guarantee 100% satisfaction and a 10-year parts and labor warranty with our Comfort Club membership.

We believe in being on time, and we will offer free service for any delays or discontent with our work. You can also reach out to us for all HVAC repair services and indoor air quality solutions. A comfortable home is a safe, healthy, and productive environment; we are here to ensure that for you.

Call One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® today for heat pump installation in the Northern Minnesota area!