The right heat pump for your home depends on outdoor temperatures, heating demand, cooling demand, humidity, seasonal weather patterns, home insulation, and the amount of time the system will operate throughout the year.
This guide explains how climate affects heat pump selection and what homeowners should look for in hot, cold, humid, dry, coastal, and mixed climates.
Quick Guide to Choosing a Heat Pump by Climate
| Climate | Important Heat Pump Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Cold climate | Low-temperature heating capacity, cold-climate certification, backup heat |
| Hot climate | Cooling efficiency, humidity control, appropriate cooling capacity |
| Hot and humid | Dehumidification, cooling efficiency, proper sizing |
| Dry climate | Cooling performance, airflow, comfort controls |
| Mixed climate | Balanced heating and cooling performance |
| Coastal climate | Corrosion resistance and outdoor-unit protection |
| Mountain climate | Low-temperature performance and altitude considerations |
Why Climate Matters When Buying a Heat Pump
A heat pump has to operate under different outdoor conditions throughout the year.
In winter, an air-source heat pump extracts heat from outdoor air. As outdoor temperatures fall, the amount of available heat decreases and the system’s heating capacity and efficiency can change.
In summer, the system operates in cooling mode and removes heat from the home.
Consequently, the ideal equipment for a home depends on whether the local climate places greater demands on heating, cooling, or both.
1. Heat Pumps for Cold Climates
Cold climates present one of the biggest challenges for air-source heat pumps because outdoor temperatures can fall significantly below freezing.
However, modern cold-climate heat pumps are specifically designed to maintain useful heating performance at low outdoor temperatures.
ENERGY STAR’s current cold-climate criteria require qualifying systems to demonstrate low-temperature performance, including a COP of at least 1.75 at 5°F and heating capacity at 5°F of at least 70% of the capacity at 47°F. 1
What to Look for in a Cold-Climate Heat Pump
- Cold-climate certification or designation
- Strong heating capacity at low temperatures
- Good COP at low temperatures
- Variable-capacity operation where appropriate
- Reliable defrost operation
- Suitable backup heating strategy
- Proper sizing for the local heating load
Do Heat Pumps Work Below 0°F?
Some modern heat pumps can continue operating at temperatures below 0°F. However, performance varies substantially by model.
Homeowners in very cold regions should examine the manufacturer’s low-temperature performance data rather than assuming every heat pump performs similarly.
ENERGY STAR notes that certified cold-climate air-source heat pumps are tested at 5°F and can continue operating below that temperature, although a backup heat source may be appropriate at even lower temperatures. 2
2. Heat Pumps for Very Cold Climates
Homes in areas with long periods of severe winter weather require more careful heat pump selection.
Examples include parts of:
- Minnesota
- North Dakota
- Maine
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
- Alaska
- Montana
- Wyoming
- Wisconsin
In these regions, look beyond the nominal heating capacity at 47°F.
Check heating capacity at temperatures such as 17°F and 5°F when those data are available.
Also determine how the system will meet the home’s heating demand during temperatures below the heat pump’s most efficient operating range.
3. Heat Pumps for Cold and Snowy Climates
Snow and ice create additional installation considerations.
The outdoor unit needs adequate clearance so snow does not block airflow or interfere with operation.
Outdoor-unit placement should also allow water produced during defrost cycles to drain away rather than refreezing around the equipment.
Important Features
- Reliable defrost controls
- Appropriate outdoor-unit elevation
- Good airflow clearance
- Low-temperature heating capability
- Proper condensate drainage
- Accessible service location
4. Heat Pumps for Mild Climates
Mild climates generally place less extreme demands on heating and cooling equipment.
In these regions, homeowners may have greater flexibility when choosing between standard and higher-efficiency equipment.
Because extreme cold may be relatively uncommon, maximum low-temperature heating capability may be less important than overall seasonal efficiency, comfort, noise, and purchase cost.
5. Heat Pumps for Hot Climates
In hot climates, cooling performance becomes especially important.
The heat pump may operate for long periods during summer, so cooling efficiency and proper sizing should receive significant attention.
Important factors include:
- SEER2
- EER2
- Cooling capacity
- Humidity control
- Variable-speed operation
- Outdoor-unit temperature performance
- Proper sizing
A heat pump that is oversized for the home may reach the thermostat setting quickly but cycle off before adequately controlling indoor humidity.
6. Heat Pumps for Hot and Humid Climates
Hot and humid climates create two separate cooling challenges: removing heat and removing moisture.
Examples include much of the Southeast and Gulf Coast.
In these regions, homeowners should pay particular attention to humidity control and system sizing.
Important Considerations
- Correct cooling capacity
- Humidity control
- Longer low-capacity operation where appropriate
- Variable-speed equipment
- Good ductwork
- Proper insulation and air sealing
Simply choosing the largest cooling system available is generally not a good strategy.
7. Heat Pumps for Hot and Dry Climates
Hot and dry regions place substantial cooling demands on HVAC systems but generally have lower outdoor humidity than humid climates.
Examples include parts of Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and inland California.
Cooling efficiency and high-temperature performance can be particularly important in these regions.
Homeowners should also consider insulation, solar heat gain through windows, and the home’s overall cooling load.
8. Heat Pumps for Desert Climates
Desert climates can expose outdoor HVAC equipment to extremely high temperatures and intense sunlight.
Heat pump selection should therefore consider cooling performance under high outdoor temperatures and the installation environment.
The outdoor unit should have sufficient airflow and should not be unnecessarily obstructed.
9. Heat Pumps for Mixed Climates
Mixed climates experience both significant heating and cooling requirements.
These homes require a balanced approach because the heat pump may operate extensively in both heating and cooling modes.
Efficiency should therefore be evaluated for both seasons rather than focusing exclusively on heating or cooling.
Important Considerations
- Heating efficiency
- Cooling efficiency
- Heating capacity
- Cooling capacity
- Outdoor temperature range
- Humidity control
- System modulation
10. Heat Pumps for Coastal Climates
Coastal environments create a different challenge: exposure to salt-laden air.
Salt can contribute to corrosion of outdoor HVAC components over time.
When purchasing a heat pump for a coastal home, ask the manufacturer or installer about corrosion-resistant components and suitable installation practices.
Coastal Heat Pump Considerations
- Corrosion-resistant outdoor components
- Protective coatings where appropriate
- Proper outdoor-unit placement
- Routine coil cleaning
- Protection from direct salt spray
11. Heat Pumps for Mountain Climates
Mountain homes can experience low temperatures, large temperature swings, snow, and unusual installation conditions.
Elevation can also affect HVAC performance and equipment selection.
In these locations, work with an installer familiar with local climate and altitude conditions.
12. Heat Pumps for Northern States
Northern states generally require greater attention to winter heating performance.
For homes in these regions, compare heating capacity at low outdoor temperatures instead of relying solely on the rated capacity at moderate conditions.
Cold-climate certification can provide a useful starting point when comparing air-source heat pumps.
13. Heat Pumps for Southern States
Southern states generally place greater emphasis on cooling performance, although winter heating requirements vary considerably between regions.
In warm areas, homeowners should evaluate cooling efficiency, humidity control, and high-temperature performance.
In parts of the South that occasionally experience freezing weather, a system should still have sufficient heating capability for local winter conditions.
14. Heat Pumps for the Northeast
Northeastern homes often require substantial heating during winter while also needing cooling during summer.
A cold-climate heat pump can be particularly useful in areas that experience extended periods of freezing weather.
Backup heating, low-temperature capacity, insulation, and air leakage should also be considered.
15. Heat Pumps for the Midwest
Much of the Midwest experiences both hot summers and cold winters.
This makes balanced heating and cooling performance particularly important.
Homeowners should compare low-temperature heating performance while also evaluating cooling efficiency and summer humidity control.
16. Heat Pumps for the Pacific Northwest
Many areas of the Pacific Northwest have relatively mild temperatures compared with the northern interior states, although local conditions vary considerably.
Heating performance, cooling requirements, humidity, and the home’s insulation level should all be considered.
Homes in colder inland or mountainous portions of the region may require equipment with stronger low-temperature heating performance.
17. Heat Pumps for California
California contains several different climate zones, so there is no single heat pump configuration that is ideal throughout the state.
Coastal, inland, desert, mountain, and northern regions can have very different heating and cooling requirements.
Choose equipment based on the home’s actual climate rather than the state name alone.
18. Heat Pumps for Florida
Florida places heavy demands on cooling and dehumidification systems.
For Florida homes, cooling efficiency, humidity control, proper sizing, corrosion resistance near the coast, and reliable operation during hot weather can be particularly important.
19. Heat Pumps for Texas
Texas includes several different climate conditions, from humid Gulf Coast areas to hot and dry western regions.
Cooling performance is generally important, but heating requirements vary significantly across the state.
Choose equipment based on the local climate and design conditions rather than statewide averages.
20. Heat Pumps for the Pacific Coast
Homes near the Pacific Coast can have relatively moderate temperatures, but coastal salt exposure and humidity may influence equipment selection and maintenance.
Outdoor-unit corrosion protection and proper installation can be particularly important near the ocean.
How to Choose a Heat Pump for Your Climate
Follow these steps before purchasing:
- Determine your local heating and cooling requirements.
- Identify the lowest and highest outdoor temperatures normally encountered.
- Determine whether heating or cooling is the dominant load.
- Check low-temperature heating capacity if you experience cold winters.
- Compare cooling efficiency if you experience long hot summers.
- Consider humidity control in humid regions.
- Consider corrosion protection in coastal regions.
- Evaluate snow and ice exposure in northern climates.
- Determine whether backup heat is necessary.
- Have the system properly sized for the home.
Climate Is More Important Than State Name
A common mistake is assuming that every home in a particular state needs the same heat pump.
States such as California, Texas, Florida, and New York contain multiple climate zones. Two homes in the same state can have very different heating and cooling requirements.
The better approach is to evaluate the home’s actual local climate and design temperatures.
Cold Climate vs Standard Heat Pump
| Feature | Standard Heat Pump | Cold-Climate Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Moderate-weather heating | Generally suitable | Suitable |
| Very low-temperature heating | Varies by model | Specifically evaluated |
| 5°F performance testing | Not necessarily required | Required for ENERGY STAR cold-climate designation |
| Low-temperature capacity | Varies | Minimum performance criteria apply |
| Best suited to severe winters | Depends on model | Generally better suited |
Under the current ENERGY STAR criteria, a qualifying cold-climate heat pump must demonstrate specific low-temperature performance at 5°F. 3
Does a Heat Pump Need Backup Heat in a Cold Climate?
Not every cold-climate home necessarily needs the same backup heating arrangement.
The decision depends on the heat pump’s low-temperature capacity, the home’s heating load, local design temperatures, electricity costs, and the homeowner’s desired level of redundancy.
ENERGY STAR notes that cold-climate heat pumps can continue operating below 5°F, while pairing them with backup heat can be advantageous at even lower temperatures. 4
Should You Buy a Heat Pump Based on Climate Alone?
No.
Climate is an important selection factor, but it should be considered together with home size, insulation, ductwork, heating load, cooling load, equipment capacity, installation conditions, and budget.
A properly designed system in the correct climate can outperform a more expensive system that is incorrectly sized or poorly installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of heat pump is best for a cold climate?
A cold-climate air-source heat pump designed and tested for low-temperature operation is often a strong option. The appropriate system depends on the home’s heating load and local winter conditions.
What type of heat pump is best for a hot climate?
In hot climates, focus on cooling efficiency, appropriate cooling capacity, humidity control where needed, and reliable high-temperature operation.
Do heat pumps work in freezing weather?
Yes. Modern air-source heat pumps can operate in freezing conditions, and specialized cold-climate models are designed to maintain useful heating performance at much lower temperatures.
What is the best heat pump for a humid climate?
Look for equipment that can provide effective humidity control while maintaining appropriate cooling performance. Proper sizing is especially important.
Do coastal homes need special heat pumps?
Not necessarily a different heat-pump technology, but coastal homes should consider corrosion resistance and protection from salt-laden air.
Are cold-climate heat pumps more expensive?
Some cold-climate systems may cost more because of their equipment and technology, but the actual price varies considerably by model, capacity, installation, and region.
What temperature is too cold for a heat pump?
There is no universal cutoff temperature. Different models have different low-temperature operating capabilities. Check the manufacturer’s performance data rather than assuming that all heat pumps stop working at the same temperature.
Final Verdict
The best heat pump for your home depends heavily on the climate in which it operates.
Cold climates require careful attention to low-temperature heating capacity and cold-climate performance. Hot climates require strong cooling performance and appropriate capacity. Humid climates place additional importance on moisture control. Coastal climates require greater attention to corrosion. Mixed climates require a balanced system capable of handling both heating and cooling demands.
Instead of choosing a heat pump based only on a national recommendation or a product’s maximum efficiency rating, select equipment based on the actual conditions your home experiences throughout the year.
Related Heat Pump Climate Articles
- Best Heat Pumps for Cold Climates
- Best Heat Pumps for Hot Climates
- Best Heat Pumps for Humid Climates
- Best Heat Pumps for Dry Climates
- Best Heat Pumps for Coastal Areas
- Best Heat Pumps for Snowy Climates
- Best Heat Pumps for Mild Climates
- Best Heat Pumps for Mixed Climates
- Best Heat Pumps for Northern States
- Best Heat Pumps for Southern States
- Best Heat Pumps for the Northeast
- Best Heat Pumps for the Midwest
- Best Heat Pumps for Florida
- Best Heat Pumps for Texas
- Best Heat Pumps for California
About the Author
ManBearPig is a part-man, part-bear, part-pig creature and a full-time expert on global warming—mostly because he has personally experienced the consequences of being extremely, extremely, super cereal.
When he isn’t roaming the wilderness, terrorizing unsuspecting humans, or demanding that people take climate change seriously, ManBearPig studies rising temperatures, melting ice, extreme weather, carbon emissions, and other inconvenient signs that the planet may not be particularly happy with us.
His research philosophy is simple:
“I’m super cereal.”
ManBearPig believes climate change is too important to discuss without facts—and too ridiculous to discuss without a little humor. Through this website, he explores global warming, climate science, environmental changes, energy, and the strange ways humans respond when their own planet starts sending them warning signals.
He has no university degree, no laboratory, and absolutely no intention of becoming a respectable academic.
But he does have hooves, claws, a snout, and an unusually strong opinion about melting ice.