Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) stop working at varying temperatures, generally ranging from -10°C down to -28°C, depending on the specific model. The exact temperature at which a unit ceases operation is known as its minimum operating temperature.
While the effectiveness and efficiency of air source heat pumps can decrease as temperatures drop significantly, they are designed to continue providing heat down to specific cold thresholds.
Minimum Operating Temperatures for ASHPs
The minimum temperature at which an air source heat pump can continue to operate varies significantly by model and manufacturer.
Average Performance
For many air source heat pumps, the average minimum working temperature falls between -10°C and -20°C. Below this range, the unit may struggle to extract sufficient heat from the outside air to effectively warm a home, or its internal mechanisms may be designed to shut down to prevent damage.
Best-Case Scenarios
Some advanced air source heat pump models are engineered to perform at much lower temperatures. According to the provided information, certain units can continue to work in temperatures as low as -28°C. This represents the lower end of the spectrum for current residential heat pump technology, showcasing significant advancements in cold-climate performance.
In summary, the point at which an air source heat pump stops working isn't a single universal temperature but rather a range determined by the specific capabilities of the unit.
- Typical Minimum: -10°C to -20°C
- Exceptional Minimum: -28°C (for certain models)
It's important to consult the manufacturer's specifications for any particular heat pump model to understand its exact minimum operating temperature.
