In the r/Homebuilding subreddit, a Midwestern man asked for advice about installing a heat pump after a skeptical homebuilder shared that it likely wouldn't work in that climate. 

"Looking online, I've seen mixed reviews about heat pumps in colder temperatures," he said. "I'd like to get some of your opinions on it." 

While it was for a vacation home that he wouldn't be at much of the time, the poster was still interested in purchasing a heat pump.

According to the Department of Energy, most people spend about 40% of their utility bill on heating and cooling, so upgrading to a heat pump can help shave off some of the money spent. 

Because heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate it, they are generally up to 200% to 300% more efficient than traditional HVAC systems, per Heatwave Heating and Cooling.

If you're interested in installing one, TCD's HVAC Explorer can help you understand your options and save up to 50% on a new heat pump, including $0 down subscription plans if you decide to lease. 

Through the HVAC Explorer, you can find trusted partners to get you set up with the right system for your budget and needs. 

One of these is Palmetto, which can save you 50% on heating and cooling costs. The company's leasing program can get a new system installed for you for $0 down, with payments as low as $99 per month. 

Since Palmetto owns the system, it provides 12 years of free maintenance, lowering your lifetime spend on the technology.

The Palmetto Home app also makes it easy to unlock up to $5,000 in rewards to spend on home upgrades like smart home tech and even solar panels. 

Do you think all new homes should use heat pump technology? Definitely 💯 Let each state decide 🇺🇸 Let homeowners decide 🏘️ No way 🙅 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Installing solar panels while you upgrade your heating and cooling system can give you even greater energy savings, and TCD's Solar Explorer is a great resource to find just what you need at the right price.

As for the OP's dilemma, commenters suggested installing a heat pump specially designed for colder climates.

"Unless it's going to be consistently below that temperature for extended periods of time, I wouldn't hesitate to put in a heat pump that's rated for low temperature operation," one said.

"Inverter style works well I would stay with manufacturers that publish info about what temps they can go down to and what percentage on heat," another shared. "If you go with ducted then you can choose backup heat source of electric heat or fossil fuel. Tell your builder to come into 21st century, some units go into negative temps and still produce enough heat."

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