Heat Pumps vs. Colorado Winters: Stay Warm and Save Money

Thermostat and $100 bills

Colorado’s unpredictable winters require heating solutions that are as adaptable as the weather itself. Since 1999, Done Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric has been the trusted choice for HVAC services across Denver, Aurora, and the Front Range communities. Our team is dedicated to keeping your home warm and comfortable, no matter how low the temperature drops.

Heat pumps provide an efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional heating systems, making them an ideal option for Colorado homeowners. By transferring heat from the outdoor air into your home—even in freezing conditions—they offer consistent warmth without the hefty energy bills. With our expertise, we ensure that your heat pump operates at peak performance throughout the winter months.

In this article, we’ll explain how heat pumps function during the colder seasons, why they’re particularly effective in Colorado’s climate, and how our services at Done can help you stay comfortable while saving on energy costs. With our “One Call… It’s Done!” commitment, we’re here to provide swift, reliable heating solutions tailored to your needs.

How Heat Pumps Work in Winter

Heat pumps operate by moving heat rather than generating it. Unlike a furnace that burns fuel to create warmth, a heat pump captures heat energy from the outdoor air—even when it’s cold—and transfers it indoors to keep your space comfortable. It may seem surprising that cold air still contains heat, but the advanced design of heat pumps allows them to pull and amplify that energy to maintain your desired indoor temperature.

Here’s how it works: the outdoor unit absorbs heat using refrigerant, which flows through the system and is compressed to raise its temperature. The warmed refrigerant then moves indoors, where it releases heat through the indoor unit. This process, powered by electricity, is both efficient and environmentally friendly, offering a practical alternative to traditional heating systems.

Even when the weather outside dips well below freezing, modern heat pumps are built to perform efficiently. Cold-climate models, in particular, are specially designed to extract heat from the air in sub-zero temperatures, keeping homes warm without overburdening the system. This makes them an increasingly popular choice for Colorado households looking for reliable and energy-conscious heating.

Why Heat Pumps Work Well in Colorado

Colorado presents some unique challenges when it comes to heating, but heat pumps have proven to be a solid solution—even during the state’s coldest months. At Done, we install air-source heat pumps, which look similar to air conditioner units. These systems are built with advanced technology that allows them to function effectively even in harsh cold.

One standout feature of newer heat pumps is the inverter-driven compressor. This technology lets the system adjust its heating output based on the specific needs of your home, offering consistent warmth while improving energy efficiency. Additionally, cold-climate heat pumps come with enhanced refrigerant systems that allow them to continue working effectively even when outdoor temperatures plummet.

For homeowners across Aurora, Denver, and the Front Range, heat pumps offer a practical and cost-effective way to handle fluctuating weather. They provide dependable heat while reducing energy expenses compared to traditional options.

When Auxiliary Heat Steps In

While heat pumps are highly efficient, there are times when extra support is needed—especially when temperatures drop below 35°F. Auxiliary heat serves as a backup system that kicks in when the heat pump can’t pull enough warmth from the outdoor air alone.

This backup typically uses electric resistance heating to provide additional warmth. It activates automatically as needed, keeping your home comfortable even on the coldest nights. If you’re wondering whether auxiliary heat is running as it should, signs include consistent indoor warmth and no unusual system behavior. On the other hand, if your home feels chilly or auxiliary heat seems to run constantly, the system may need professional attention.

At Done, we know how important it is for auxiliary heat to work seamlessly with the main system. Our team is experienced in troubleshooting and resolving any heating issues to ensure your home stays warm no matter the weather.

What to Know About the Defrost Cycle

During winter, frost can build up on the outdoor unit of a heat pump, especially on colder, humid days. While it might seem alarming at first, this is completely normal and expected. Heat pumps come equipped with a defrost cycle to handle frost buildup and keep the system running smoothly.

The defrost cycle temporarily switches the heat pump into a cooling mode, which warms the outdoor unit and melts the frost. You might notice a short pause in heating or hear sounds like a loud whooshing noise during this process—both are typical and show the system is working as intended.

However, if frost becomes excessive or the defrost cycle runs too often, it might signal an issue that needs attention. At Done, we’re here to identify and fix any problems, helping your heat pump stay efficient throughout the winter.

Stay Warm and Save with Done’s Heat Pump Solutions

Don’t let Colorado’s harsh winters leave you shivering or drain your energy budget. At Done Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric, we specialize in customizing heat pump solutions that keep your home comfortable and your costs low. Our experienced team will work with you to find the perfect heat pump setup, whether it’s a standalone system or a dual heating solution that complements your existing furnace or propane heater.

With Done’s heat pump expertise, you can enjoy consistent warmth, improved efficiency, and significant savings on your energy bills. Our cutting-edge technology and cold-climate models are designed to perform flawlessly even in the most challenging winter conditions.

One Call… It’s Done! Contact Done today at (303) 732-6177 or email us at HelpToday@itsdone.com to schedule your heat pump consultation and installation in Denver, Aurora, or the Front Range communities. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

Experience the Done difference and join our 1st Service Club for exclusive benefits and discounts on all your home maintenance needs.

Read more blogs...

Call or Schedule Your Service Online!

Need Help? Get the Best in Home Services.

Let's Talk!

How Can We Help You?

Complete the form and a member of our team will be in touch shortly with answers and assistance.