Heat pumps are becoming increasingly common in Quebec, but they are still surrounded by persistent misconceptions. Some stem from older systems that were less suited to cold climates, others from experiences involving poor sizing or improper settings. As a result, people still say that heat pumps “do not heat in winter,” that they are “very noisy,” or that they are “too expensive to maintain.” This guide separates fact from fiction using a practical approach, to help you understand what truly affects performance, comfort, and reliability in Quebec’s climate.
Summary of key points
- Modern heat pumps can heat effectively in winter, but performance depends on the model, proper sizing, and building conditions.
- Complaints about “weak heat” are often linked to insufficient airflow, improper settings, or poor insulation, not just the equipment itself.
- Noise is not inevitable. Placement, mounting, and maintenance strongly influence perceived sound levels.
- Frost on the outdoor unit is often normal in heating mode, as long as defrost cycles work properly and the unit is well cleared.
- A heat pump is not “maintenance free,” but regular upkeep is generally simple and focused on preserving airflow and heat exchange.
- The only reliable way to avoid disappointment is professional installation with proper sizing and configuration for the home.
- A heat pump can operate on its own or alongside another heating system, depending on the home and cold-weather peak management.
Why are there so many myths in Quebec?
Quebec combines several factors that fuel misconceptions: harsh winters, a wide variety of housing types (from new condos to older houses), and heating habits inherited from electric or fuel-based systems. When a heat pump is installed in a home with high heat loss, or when it is poorly located, results can be disappointing. Those disappointments are then repeated as general “rules” presented as universal truths.
Before diving into the myths, keep this in mind: a heat pump is part of a system. Performance, comfort, and noise depend just as much on the home and installation as on the unit itself.
Myth 1: “A heat pump does not heat when it’s very cold”
Reality: it does heat, but capacity varies and the home matters a lot
A heat pump transfers heat from outdoor air to the inside. Even in winter, heat is present in the air, but as outdoor temperatures drop, the heat pump must work harder and its capacity may decrease depending on the equipment type.
This myth becomes true mainly in two situations:
- the equipment is not suited to the local winter conditions,
- the home requires more heat than the system can deliver due to high losses or improper sizing.
In practice, a properly selected and installed heat pump can maintain stable comfort for much of the winter. During extreme cold spells, some homes rely on supplemental heating, depending on system design and comfort strategy.
What truly affects winter performance
- Home insulation and air tightness (doors, windows, attic, basement).
- Proper sizing based on actual heating needs.
- Air circulation and distribution (returns, grilles, balancing).
- Outdoor unit clearance and elevation (snow, ice, airflow).
- Thermostat settings that favor stability over extremes.
After this list, remember the most important point: if a home is hard to heat, no system can “save” comfort without a broader approach. A heat pump can perform well, but it cannot endlessly compensate for excessive heat loss.
Myth 2: “If a heat pump frosts over, it’s broken”
Reality: frost is common, defrosting is what matters
In heating mode, the outdoor unit can accumulate frost. This is normal when the air is cold and humid. Heat pumps are designed to manage this through defrost cycles, temporarily reversing operation to remove frost.
What should raise concern is not simply seeing frost, but rather:
- very thick frost that persists,
- a noticeable drop in indoor heat,
- very frequent defrost cycles with unstable comfort,
- ice buildup on the ground that blocks airflow or drainage.
After these signs, one useful reminder: placement plays a major role. A unit that is too low, poorly cleared, or exposed to blowing snow may frost more and defrost less effectively.
Myth 3: “Heat pumps are noisy”
Reality: noise depends mostly on installation, placement, and maintenance
Noise is one of the most persistent myths. Yet a system may be perceived as “noisy” for reasons that are not inherent to the heat pump itself:
- outdoor unit installed near a bedroom, window, or resonant wall,
- inadequate supports transmitting vibration,
- debris, dirt, or a loose component altering noise over time.
Before the list below, remember that noise is largely managed through planning.
- Choose a location away from sensitive areas such as bedrooms or offices.
- Use stable, appropriate mounts with vibration control.
- Maintain adequate clearance around the outdoor unit.
- Investigate any sudden change in noise rather than accepting it as normal.
After these points, a simple rule applies: a noise that changes is a signal. It deserves inspection, not resignation.
Myth 4: “A heat pump dries the air too much in winter”
Reality: heating cold air naturally lowers relative humidity
In winter, outdoor air is naturally dry. When it is heated indoors, its relative humidity drops, creating a dry-air sensation. Many people blame the heat pump, but the same effect occurs with other heating systems.
What worsens the dry feeling:
- overheating the space,
- high ventilation or air exchange rates,
- lack of humidity control, depending on the home.
A more comfortable approach is usually to stabilize the temperature, avoid overheating, and monitor indoor humidity rather than blaming the heat pump.
Myth 5: “A heat pump does not need maintenance”
Reality: maintenance is simple but essential for performance
A heat pump is not maintenance free. It needs basic care to preserve:
- airflow,
- heat exchange efficiency,
- safety and reliability.
Before the list below, the goal is not technical intervention but keeping the system clean and unobstructed.
- Clean or check filters based on usage.
- Keep return air paths and supply vents clear.
- Clear the outdoor unit of leaves, ice, snow, and debris.
- Monitor defrost water drainage to prevent ice buildup.
- Schedule periodic inspections with a certified technician.
After these steps, the difference is often noticeable: more stable comfort, gentler cycles, and fewer issues related to dirt and blockage.
Myth 6: “A heat pump always replaces 100% of heating needs”
Reality: it depends on the home, the system, and extreme cold
In some homes, a heat pump can cover most heating needs. In others, especially where heat loss is high or during severe cold, supplemental heat may be part of the system design.
This is not a flaw. It is a comfort strategy and a way to manage cold-weather peaks. The key is having a properly sized and configured system in a home that limits heat loss.
Table – Myths vs realities (quick summary)
| Myth | Reality | The right approach |
| “It does not heat in winter” | Capacity varies, but performance can remain strong | Sizing, envelope, and settings |
| “Frost means failure” | Frost is common, defrosting is normal | Check clearance, cycles, and comfort |
| “It’s noisy” | Installation and vibration matter most | Placement, mounting, maintenance |
| “It dries the air” | Effect linked to heating cold air | Stabilize setpoint, monitor humidity |
| “No maintenance required” | Simple but necessary maintenance | Filters, clearance, periodic inspection |
| “It replaces everything” | Depends on the building and cold peaks | Plan backup if needed |
Good habits to avoid negative experiences
Myths are often reinforced by poor user experiences. Fortunately, the causes are usually preventable.
- Ensure sizing is based on real heating needs, not estimates.
- Choose a clear, elevated outdoor location with proper snow management.
- Avoid extreme thermostat settings and favor stable temperatures.
- Maintain proper airflow through filters, returns, and grilles.
- Call a certified technician as soon as a new symptom appears.
After these tips, remember a practical conclusion: a high-performing heat pump is usually one that is well installed, in a home that retains heat, and maintained regularly.
Conclusion
Most heat pump myths in Quebec stem from outdated experiences, poorly matched systems, or inadequate installation conditions. In reality, winter performance depends on concrete factors: proper sizing, building envelope quality, air circulation, outdoor placement, and maintenance. Frost is generally normal, noise is largely managed through placement, and maintenance is simple but essential. With professional guidance, a heat pump becomes a reliable year-round comfort solution, even in our climate.
For recommendations tailored to your home and installation aligned with best practices, you can consult the specialists at Daikin Québec.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Pump Myths
Is it normal for my heat pump to run defrost cycles?
Yes. In heating mode, defrosting is normal depending on outdoor temperature and humidity. What matters is that comfort remains stable and frost does not build up excessively.
Why does my home feel less warm during extreme cold?
Because heat loss increases significantly in very cold weather. Insulation, air tightness, and airflow become critical.
How can I tell if noise is normal?
If it is steady and moderate, it is usually normal. If it changes, becomes louder, or appears suddenly, the unit and its mounting should be checked.
Can a heat pump operate alone all year long?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on the home, the system, and cold-weather peaks. A technician can confirm the best strategy.
What is the most important day-to-day maintenance task?
Keeping filters clean (if accessible), ensuring return air paths are clear, and maintaining an outdoor unit free of debris and snow.
