If a heat pump works by pulling warmth from the air outside, it’s easy to assume it can’t operate efficiently when temperatures plunge and the air feels frozen.
In reality, ductless heat pumps perform admirably in some of the coldest places on the planet. Norway, Sweden and Finland all experience deep, long winters with subfreezing temperatures but still have the highest penetration of heat pumps globally, according to the International Energy Agency.
Closer to home, Maine has adopted ductless heat pump technology the fastest in the United States, installing more than 100,000 installations from 2019 to 2023. Plus, the systems are popular in New England, driven by strong state incentives and an older housing stock that often lacks ductwork.
The development of the cold-climate heat pump is to thank. These types of units are engineered to deliver efficient heating at lower temperatures, with upgraded compressors, refrigerants and defrost controls that keep performance high even as conditions drop.
Still, misunderstandings about what these systems can do often lead to missed opportunities to install a technology that fits. So, let’s set the record straight about today’s cold-climate ductless heat pumps by debunking the top 15 misconceptions across five key categories: efficiency, sizing, performance, installation and costs, and retrofitting existing infrastructure.
Efficiency in Extreme Cold
MYTH: All heat pumps deliver the same heating performance in the cold.
FACT: Only cold-climate models maintain 100% capacity down in low temperatures. A standard heat pump loses up to 50% of its capacity below 32oF, while a cold-climate heat pump will maintain near-full output down to –5oF or colder.
MYTH: The efficiency advantage of a mini-split heat pump completely disappears when temperatures drop below freezing.
FACT: Even at 5oF, a cold-climate heat pump maintains a coefficient of performance of 1.75 or higher, meaning it is still 75% more efficient than 100% efficient electric resistance heat. The efficiency drop is marginal, not catastrophic.
MYTH: Heat pumps always require a backup heating system.
FACT: For most homes, a properly sized and installed modern cold-climate heat pump can provide 100% of the heating needs on its own. While some systems incorporate supplemental electric resistance heating for extremely cold days, it’s not a necessity for all installations. However, in the absolute coldest parts of the U.S., a supplemental heat source may still be a prudent design choice, even if the heat pump can handle the load.
Choosing the Right Size and Configuration
MYTH: You must oversize the heat pump to ensure it can keep the house warm on the coldest day of the year.
FACT: Oversizing a cold-climate heat pump destroys its efficiency. Best practice recommends sizing the unit based on part-load performance (which is how it runs 95% of the time) to ensure optimal dehumidification and customer comfort.
The size of the home or area the unit is heating determines the system’s size, measured in British thermal units. As a general guideline, follow this chart.
MYTH: A ductless system can’t heat the whole house.
FACT: Single-zone units can struggle to reach distant rooms, hallways or closed bedrooms. In extremely cold weather, this can leave those peripheral areas noticeably colder if they lack their own heating unit.
To ensure whole-home heating, recommend a multi-zone approach of one outdoor unit connected to two or more indoor units. This allows the units to service multiple rooms independently, keeping the whole house warm.
Comfort and Performance Concerns
MYTH: Ductless systems deliver cool air.
FACT: A mini-split delivers air at 90oF to 105oF, which is cooler than the blast from a furnace at 130oF. Because the mini-split runs continuously as designed, the air may feel cool to a person standing directly under the indoor unit, leading to complaints about inadequate heating. But overall, the room will be warm and comfortable.
MYTH: The low, steady airflow from a mini-split means it can’t heat the room effectively.
FACT: Modern cold-climate heat pumps use inverter-driven compressors and fans that adjust their speed instead of cycling on and off. This steady, lower airflow is part of that design. Because the system runs continuously at the exact speed needed, it moves more total air through the room over time, which results in even heat and better efficiency.
MYTH: A heat pump that goes into defrost cycle frequently is defective.
FACT: Frequent defrost cycles (especially near 35oF and high humidity) are normal and necessary.
Installation, Controls and Operating Costs
MYTH: Heat pumps cause high electric bills.
FACT: The most common cause of high electric bills is when the thermostat settings or improper lockout configuration forces the unit to run electric auxiliary heat unnecessarily. It is best practice that the customer use Heat mode and avoid large temperature setbacks.
MYTH: Once installed, the controls should be set to the manufacturer default.
FACT: Default settings often cripple performance by 30% to 50%. To maximize efficiency and customer savings, experienced installers often adjust the lockout temperature below manufacturer defaults, leveraging the cold-climate heat pump’s full capacity before engaging auxiliary heat.
In a hybrid system, take care when programming the crossover temperature — the point at which the system switches from the heat pump to the gas furnace. Base the calculation on the customer’s cost of electricity versus gas to ensure the lowest utility bill.
MYTH: It doesn’t matter where the outdoor unit is installed.
FACT: Elevation is critical (at least 18") to prevent defrosted meltwater from freezing the base pan and destroying the fan blades or coil. Although base pan heaters and advanced defrost cycles manage ice buildup, proper installation prevents snow from burying the unit and allows for proper drainage.
MYTH: Heat pumps are noisy and expensive.
FACT: Early models could be loud, but modern heat pumps typically operate at noise levels comparable to a refrigerator or a quiet conversation (around 40 to 60 decibels).
Additionally, heat pumps are generally much more energy efficient than traditional combustion or electric resistance heating, as they move heat rather than generate it. They can deliver up to four times the energy they consume. While electricity prices compared to gas prices play a role, heat pumps’ high efficiency often results in lower overall energy bills over the long term. The upfront cost can be higher, but this is offset by long-term savings and available rebates or tax credits.
MYTH: The new refrigerants are irrelevant for cold-climate heat pumps.
FACT: The refrigerant standard for new residential equipment (A2L refrigerants such as R32 or R454B) began in January 2025. It is strongly recommended that installers update their EPA 608 certification and invest in tools designed for these mildly flammable refrigerants. In addition, A2L refrigerants are chemically designed to work more efficiently in cold-climate heat pumps, making the transition directly tied to performance gains.
Adapting Existing Infrastructure
MYTH: It’s too complicated and expensive to renovate an older house to include a heat pump.
FACT: Heat pumps can be successfully installed in buildings of all ages. Numerous case studies, even in historic or stone buildings, have proven their effectiveness.
The multi-zone approach is typically the least intrusive whole-home option for homes without existing ductwork, which is far more affordable than running new ducts in older homes. If the existing ductwork in a home is restrictive or undersized, installation may require advanced airflow diagnostics and duct system modifications to ensure the heat pump can deliver its potential.
MYTH: Heat pumps only work with radiant or underfloor heating.
FACT: While underfloor heating allows the heat pump to operate at its highest efficiency, systems can be designed to work with existing radiators (though some may need to be upsized) or with ducted air delivery, depending on the home’s existing infrastructure.
Turn to GE Appliances for Cold-Climate Heat Pumps
Despite various misconceptions, today’s cold-climate heat pumps are sophisticated systems designed to meet the rigorous demands of winter weather. GE Appliances Air & Water Solutions is ready to provide heat pump solutions for your customers in cold climates.
Choosing high-performance systems, such as the Haier Arctic Series, ensures your customers get a reliable, efficient and cost-effective heating solution built specifically for extreme conditions.
Here’s what you can expect from the Arctic series:
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Extreme low ambient heating ensures single-zone units are capable of operating and providing heat down to –31oF, and multi-zone systems operate down to –22°F.
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Single-zone units typically deliver 100% of their rated heating capacity at 5oF, while multi-zone systems provide approximately 90% heating capacity at 5°F.
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The A-PAM DC Inverter compressors modulate speed, provide consistent comfort and maximum efficiency.
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A base pan heater prevents condensate water from freezing and damaging the outdoor unit in cold weather.
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Systems operate quietly, with a dedicated quiet mode keeping sound levels in the 20 dB range.
In addition, GE Appliances Air & Water Solutions cold-climate heat pumps incorporate smart technology and comfort features for a modern user experience. SmartHQ™ connectivity gives your customers unit control from anywhere while providing you with performance data for service and diagnostics.
Not to mention, these systems are paired with compatible indoor units designed with pro-friendly features to make one-person installation and service that much easier. The most popular and versatile option is the Highwall – typically installed 6-7 ft. above the ground – which includes the following install-friendly features:
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Mounting Template: A printed cardboard mounting template is convenient for single-person installation.
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Mounting Plate With Dimensions: This frame helps position the centerline of the line set and drain opening in the right location, each time and every time.
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Extended Kickstand: A stand-off hinge allows more hand space for line set and drain connections, service and maintenance.
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Easy-Access Fan Motor: An easy-to-reach motor simplifies maintenance or removal without disassembling the evaporator.
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Detachable Bottom Cover: A removable cover allows easy access to connect advanced diagnostic service tools.
Other indoor unit options to pair with the Arctic series include:
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Works well in open- concept living areas or large bedrooms.
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Typically installed in the center of the room for better air distribution.
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Easily installed on the floor or low on the wall (under a window).
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Common choice as a replacement for an old radiator.
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Typically mounted in the ceiling or in a framed enclosure below the ceiling with some or no duct work.
With the right equipment and installation practices, cold-climate heat pumps deliver dependable comfort, high efficiency and strong customer satisfaction. If you’re ready to add proven cold-climate options to your lineup, contact GE Appliances Air & Water Solutions.