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For a cold-climate heat pump, compare maintained capacity and low-temperature efficiency for the exact equipment combination.
Key decisionDecision: compare the exact combination’s performance at the temperature that matters for your project.
Cold weather changes the question
A heat pump’s capacity and efficiency vary with outdoor temperature. A strong seasonal rating alone does not show how much heat remains available during a cold peak.
Three useful data points
Ask for published low-temperature heating capacity, capacity maintenance versus rated output, and coefficient of performance when available. The AHRI reference and indoor-outdoor models must match.
Connect data to the building
Performance at −15°C must be compared with the building load and backup strategy. It is neither a numbers contest nor a universal promise.
Official sources
- Natural Resources Canada — Heating and cooling with a heat pump (new tab)
- Natural Resources Canada — Air-source heat pumps (new tab)
Updated :
Programs and criteria can change. Always verify the official source before making a decision.