Air source heat pumps continue to perform well throughout winter, but many homeowners are unsure how they keep homes warm when the temperature drops. With the right setup and support from an experienced heating engineer, these systems remain steady and reliable even in the coldest months.
How do heat pumps work when it’s cold?
Air source heat pumps keep working in winter by drawing heat from the outdoor air, even when it feels cold outside. Modern systems are built with advanced technology that helps maintain consistent warmth across your home.
Heat pumps adjust their output based on outdoor conditions and run at different speeds to provide even, stable heating. This makes them a dependable option for households in Kent, Bromley, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge.
How Heat Pumps Pull Heat From Cold Air
Even on frosty days, outdoor air still contains heat energy. The outdoor unit pulls in this air and passes it over a refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs the small amounts of heat present at low temperatures before being compressed to raise its temperature. This warmth is then transferred into your central heating and hot water system.
Defrost Cycles During Winter
During colder spells, moisture can freeze on the outdoor unit. To deal with this, heat pumps carry out short defrost cycles where the system briefly changes direction to melt the frost. This process is automatic and helps keep the unit operating smoothly in winter.
Good placement and a high standard of installation help reduce excessive frost buildup and keep defrost cycles short.
What Helps a Heat Pump Work Better in Winter
Several factors support strong performance during winter. Correct system sizing, solid insulation and high-quality installation all play a big role in steady cold-weather performance. Smart controls also help the system run efficiently by adjusting output during temperature changes.
Your heat pump will also run better when it has clear airflow around the outdoor unit, clean filters and well-sized radiators. Regular check-ups from a heating engineer in Kent or Bromley help keep everything running as it should.
Winter Mistakes to Avoid
A few common habits can affect winter performance. Constantly changing thermostat levels, closing off rooms or allowing snow and leaves to gather around the outdoor unit can make it work harder than necessary. Keeping the external unit clear and using steady temperature settings can make a noticeable difference.
Routine Winter Care
A yearly service helps keep your air source heat pump in good condition. Winter checks may include cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, reviewing outdoor airflow and making sure controls are set up correctly. A skilled heating engineer in Tonbridge, Sevenoaks or Kent can carry out these checks for long-lasting performance.
Book Heat Pump Support Across Kent
For expert help with your air source heat pump in Kent, The Heat Pump Guy provides professional installation, maintenance and servicing throughout Bromley, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge. Complete our contact form to arrange your heat pump installation or winter service today.
