What is the best way to run a heat pump in winter?

Author: Derick Halvorson I  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 7, 2025

7 Tips for Maximizing Heat Pump Performance in the Winter
  1. Stop cranking up the temperature. ...
  2. Don't rely on emergency heat. ...
  3. Keep your filter clean. ...
  4. Keep leaves and debris clear of your outdoor unit. ...
  5. Do NOT cover your system. ...
  6. Don't worry about the defrost mode. ...
  7. Follow a regular maintenance schedule.

What is the most efficient way to use a heat pump in the winter?

Unlike other heating equipment, heat pumps are most efficient when allowed to hold a steady temperature. So, find the right setting and then leave it alone. It is still recommended to set the temperature back if the home is unoccupied for 24 hours or more. Make sure your existing heating system is turned down.

Should I run my heat pump on auto or heat?

If you find yourself using heating and AC in one day, use auto. If not. Stick to heat or cool and allow the system to maintain temperature. Don't let the temperature get so low or high to where the home has a huge delta and has to work overtime to get the home and everything in it to the desired set point.

What mode should my heat pump in the winter?

In the winter, it's generally recommended to set your heat pump between 68°F and 72°F (20°C to 22°C) for optimal comfort and energy efficiency. Here are some tips to consider: Comfort Level: Adjust based on your personal comfort. Some people prefer a slightly warmer or cooler setting.

What is the most economical way to run a heat pump?

Although it seems counter-intuitive, a heat pump runs at its most efficient if it is left on all the time, rather than short blasts of heat in the morning and evening. This is because it is far easier to maintain a cosy temperature than it is to heat up your home from a cold baseline.

The best way to run a heat pump | Heat Pumps | Winter care #fischerfutureheat #airsourceheatpump

How to lower electric bill with heat pump?

How to Reduce the Cost of Heat Pump Usage
  1. Lower Your Thermostat. One of the easiest ways to save money on your energy costs is to lower the temperature on the thermostat. ...
  2. Regularly Change Your Filters. ...
  3. Regular Unit Maintenance. ...
  4. Appropriate Insulation. ...
  5. The Right Size Heat Pump. ...
  6. Final Thoughts.

Is it cheaper to leave the heat pump on all day?

On the flip side, running a heat pump all day could lead to unnecessary energy use and higher costs, particularly if the house is empty for long periods or is well-insulated and doesn't require constant heating or cooling.

Should the heat pump fan be on auto or circulate?

1. Since the AUTO setting means the fan is only engaged when the system is on, rather than constantly blowing, AUTO is the most energy-efficient option between the two settings. This means you'll be using less energy and saving money on your electric bill by using the AUTO setting. 2.

Is it okay for a heat pump to run all night in winter?

In general, heat pumps can run continuously in winter without wasting energy. They can maintain a consistent indoor temperature efficiently.

At what temperature does a heat pump go to auxiliary heat?

Your auxiliary heat, or secondary heat source, should come on when your heat pump is struggling to heat your home effectively. The thermostat will trigger auxiliary heat when: The outside temperature is below 40 degrees or a set aux heat trigger temperature. The heat pump is in defrost mode.

At what temperature should you not use a heat pump?

Heat pumps do not operate as efficiently when temperatures drop to between 25 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit for most systems. A heat pump works best when the temperature is above 40. Once outdoor temperatures drop to 40 degrees, heat pumps start losing efficiency, and they consume more energy to do their jobs.

Should I set my thermostat to auto or heat in winter?

Higher Energy Efficiency — Using the “AUTO” setting helps increase energy efficiency by reducing the amount of energy used to keep your home comfortable. This means you're wasting less electricity and exposing your furnace system to less constant heating.

What setting should my thermostat be on for my heat pump?

Heat pumps are designed to run continuously. A good starting temperature to set is 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the most energy efficient way to use a heat pump?

How do I run my heat pump efficiently? Use the timer to warm the room just before you get home and switch off when you don't need it. Set the thermostat between 19ºC and 21ºC — this keeps your home warm and dry, while saving power. Set the fan to 'auto' mode — this will let the pump optimise its fan speed.

How do I keep my heat pump from freezing in the winter?

Regular Maintenance
  1. Listen for odd noises.
  2. Check airflow.
  3. Clean or replace filters.
  4. Clean the entire heat pump.
  5. De-ice if necessary.
  6. Add refrigerant.

How to get the most heat out of your heat pump?

Check out our tips on getting the most out of your heat pump.
  1. Set and forget! Settings are the key to great heat pump performance. ...
  2. Use the highest fan setting. A heat pump works most efficiently when set to a higher fan speed. ...
  3. Cold weather is OK! But keep the debris and snow away. ...
  4. Focus on saving money in the long run.

What is the best heat pump setting for winter?

For winter heating, aim for the lowest comfortable setting, around 68-70°F when occupied. Recommended configuration includes: Set the system to “heat” or “auto” and increase the temperature to 68-70°F during occupied hours. Program the thermostat to lower temperatures to around 62-65°F when away or asleep.

Is it better to keep a heat pump at a constant temperature?

Heat pumps operate most efficiently when holding a steady temperature.

What is the best way to operate a heat pump?

Keep Vanes Open & Directed: Keep air vanes open to allow air flow freely throughout the unit. Direct vanes downward when heating your home, and up when cooling to circulate air best. Maximize the Heating Zone: Set the temperature of the main unit slightly higher to help distribute even warmth throughout your home.

What mode should my heat pump be on in winter?

“Auto” mode could cause your heat pump to heat on a cool summer night or cool on a sunny fall or winter afternoon. To avoid accidentally cooling during the fall and winter, use “Heat” mode. Likewise, to avoid accidentally heating on a cool summer night, use “Cool,” “Dry,” or “Fan,” but not “Auto.”

What fan setting is best on a heat pump?

Strange but true: a heat pump works most efficiently when set to a higher fan speed. Of course, high fan speeds can produce more ambient noise and air movement. Use the highest speed you're comfortable with, then dial in your preferred temperature setting (see #1).

Should I use the circulate setting on my thermostat in winter?

Circulates air: Improved air circulation can work to keep a home comfortable in hot and cold weather. As such, the “circulate” setting might be all you need instead of raising or lowering the thermostat.

At what temperature is a heat pump no longer efficient?

For this reason, heat pumps start to lose efficiency at around 40 degrees F and become less efficient than furnaces at around 25 degrees F. Heat pumps continue to be effective at cooling the indoors, even at high temperatures.

What is the cheapest way to run a heat pump?

Reduce your heat pump costs even lower with these tips
  1. Keep temperature settings low. ...
  2. Only heat the space you are using. ...
  3. Choose the correct sized model. ...
  4. Clean the filter. ...
  5. Close doors and curtains to keep the heat in. ...
  6. Use the timer function. ...
  7. Look for the Energy Star rating.

How to run a heat pump in cold weather?

7 Tips for Maximizing Heat Pump Performance in the Winter
  1. Stop cranking up the temperature. ...
  2. Don't rely on emergency heat. ...
  3. Keep your filter clean. ...
  4. Keep leaves and debris clear of your outdoor unit. ...
  5. Do NOT cover your system. ...
  6. Don't worry about the defrost mode. ...
  7. Follow a regular maintenance schedule.

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