Heat pumps are a smart and efficient choice for year-round comfort, but as winter temperatures drop, it’s important to understand how your system may perform differently. While heat pumps can still heat your home in cold weather, they may run longer, rely on auxiliary heat, or need thermostat adjustments to maintain consistent warmth.
That’s why seasonal maintenance and expert support matter. At Summers & Zim’s, we help homeowners prepare their heat pumps for winter, troubleshoot performance concerns, and make informed upgrades when needed.
Whether your system needs a tune-up, repair, or replacement, our team is ready to keep your home comfortable—even on the coldest days.
How Heat Pumps Perform in Cold Weather
Heat pumps extract warmth from outside air—even in winter—but their efficiency naturally decreases as outdoor temperatures fall. Most systems are built to handle chilly conditions, but once temperatures drop below 30°F, you may notice longer run times, cooler air from vents, or your system switching to auxiliary (or backup) heat to maintain your set temperature.
This isn’t a sign that something’s wrong; it’s how your heat pump is designed to operate. Still, if your energy bills rise suddenly or your home feels less comfortable, it may be time to fine-tune the system for better performance.
Our team can assess your setup and recommend simple thermostat adjustments to optimize your system’s performance in colder temperatures. We also offer defrost cycle tweaks and dual-fuel configurations, which pair your heat pump with a gas furnace to improve efficiency and comfort during freezing weather.
Different upgrades can help you stay warm while keeping operating costs under control.
The Importance of Servicing Your Heat Pump Before Winter
Scheduling a professional inspection and tune-up before winter can prevent mid-season breakdowns and improve energy efficiency. During our visit, we’ll:
- Clean and inspect coils and filters
- Check refrigerant levels
- Inspect electrical connections
- Test defrost cycles and thermostat calibration
- Ensure your auxiliary heat system is ready when needed
Routine maintenance helps extend the life of your unit, reduces winter energy costs, and ensures consistent comfort even during Pennsylvania’s coldest months.
The Power of Heat Pump Maintenance Service
One of the biggest favors you can do for your home’s heating and cooling is proactively schedule heat pump maintenance service on an annual basis. As with so many of your home systems, a heat pump can avoid costly repairs and replacements if serviced regularly.
When our team members visit your home to deliver regular heat pump maintenance service, they can identify emerging issues and deliver solutions before those issues turn into emergencies.
A well-maintained heat pump is also less likely to rely heavily on auxiliary heating, saving you money and reducing wear on your system.
Of course, even the most durable heat pump eventually stops performing. Should you ever need heat pump replacement services, our team can help there, too, providing fast and effective heat pump installation in Lancaster, PA.
Winter Heat Pump FAQs
Do heat pumps work in freezing temperatures?
Yes, heat pumps can still function in freezing weather. However, they may switch to auxiliary heat to keep up with demand, especially below 30°F.
What is auxiliary heat, and why is it running?
Auxiliary heat is a backup heating method—often electric or gas—that kicks in when your heat pump alone can’t maintain your desired temperature. It’s common in winter but may signal inefficiency if used too often.
Should I service my heat pump before winter?
Absolutely. Pre-winter servicing ensures your unit runs efficiently and reliably and helps prevent unexpected cold-weather breakdowns.
What are signs my heat pump needs repair in winter?
Cold spots, higher energy bills, unusual noises, frequent auxiliary heat usage, or your home feeling chilly despite running the system are all signs it may need attention.
Is a dual-fuel system worth it?
Yes! A dual-fuel system switches between a heat pump and a gas furnace based on the outdoor temperature for the most cost-effective and efficient heating.
Our Focus Is Quality
When you choose to work with Summers & Zim’s for annual heat pump maintenance service, repairs or replacements, you’re getting a team who emphasizes quality in everything we do.
We hire only team members of the highest quality — professionals who know what they’re doing and how to deliver outstanding customer service. We use only replacement parts that meet high-quality standards, and we only install units of the highest quality when you need a heat pump replacement in Lancaster, PA.
Make sure you’re getting the quality you and your home deserve when you choose Summers & Zim’s.
Schedule Your Heat Pump Service Today
Cold weather doesn’t have to catch you off guard. Whether you’re preparing for winter, troubleshooting a performance issue, or considering a system upgrade, Summers & Zim’s is your go-to partner for reliable heat pump service, repair, and replacement.
Call us today at (610) 467-7147 or contact us online to schedule your winter heat pump service in Lancaster, Chester, or Delaware County.
Serving You in Pennsylvania
At Summers & Zim’s, we have a history of providing honest & reliable service to Pennsylvania homeowners that dates to 1930. When you need heat pump replacement service or annual maintenance on your heat pump, we respond with a commitment to seeing your home reach its full potential. If you live in Lancaster, Delaware or Chester counties, make Summers & Zim’s your first call for home service needs.
We also provide a wide range of similar services for homeowners who need help with plumbing or other aspects of heating and air conditioning. If you have questions, need information or require emergency assistance, we’re always here to serve you and your home.
Call us today at (610) 593-5129 or contact us online for heat pump repair in Lancaster or Lititz PA. Our team is also skilled at completing heat pump replacements or regular heat pump maintenance services at your home.
My service today was thorough and very professional. The S & Z technicians are always excellent. I will stick with this customer service oriented company for all my water, heating and cooling needs. A++!