Heat Pump Cold-Weather Tips for Your Home

As temperatures drop, heat pumps work differently from gas furnaces. Here are a few quick tips to keep your home comfortable and help the system run efficiently:

1. Set Your Thermostat and Leave It

Heat pumps work best with a steady setting.Frequent adjustments make the system run longer and reduce efficiency. Choose a comfortable temperature (typically 68–70°F) and let it maintain that level.

2. Expect Cooler Air from the Vents

This is normal.Unlike gas furnaces, heat pumps deliver warm but not hot air. The system heats your home gradually by running for longer, gentler cycles. This does not mean the heat pump isn’t working.

3. Adjust Vents for Cold Weather

Reverse the airflow pattern you use in the summer:

• Close or partially close upstairs vents.

• Open downstairs vents fully.

Heat naturally rises, so directing more warm air downstairs helps even out temperatures and reduces cold-spot complaints.

4. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear

If your heat pump has an outdoor unit:

• Remove snow, ice, and leaves around it.

• Keep at least 2–3 feet of open space so it can breathe.

5. When It Gets Very Cold

On very cold days, the system may run almost continuously. This is normal.You may also see steam rising from the outdoor unit—it’s simply going through a defrost cycle.

6. If Something Seems Off

If the home isn’t warming at all, or the thermostat shows a warning light, submit a maintenance request through your tenant portal so our team can help.