Expert heat pump service for Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. We understand how heat pumps perform in cold weather.
Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm | After-hours service available by appointment only

Heat pumps work differently than furnaces, and their performance changes with outdoor temperature. Understanding this helps you know what's normal behavior versus what requires repair.
Excellent Performance
Heat pumps operate at peak efficiency, providing comfortable heat at low cost. This is when heat pumps shine, often 2-3x more efficient than gas furnaces.
Good Performance
Heat pumps still work efficiently but may run longer cycles. You might notice defrost cycles where the outdoor unit briefly switches to cooling mode to melt frost buildup.
Reduced Efficiency
Heat pump efficiency drops significantly. Auxiliary (backup) electric heat strips activate, increasing energy costs. This is normal behavior, not a malfunction.
Important: If your heat pump can't maintain temperature above 40°F or auxiliary heat runs constantly in mild weather, you likely have a problem requiring repair. In extreme cold (below 25°F), it's normal for backup heat to run frequently.
Not all heat pump issues are obvious. Watch for these warning signs:
Light frost is normal in cold weather, but heavy ice buildup or ice that persists for hours indicates a defrost control problem, low refrigerant, or restricted airflow.
Requires Service
If your electric bill suddenly doubles or triples, your heat pump may be stuck in auxiliary heat mode or losing efficiency due to refrigerant loss or mechanical issues.
Requires Service
If your heat pump blows cold air when in heating mode (except during defrost cycles), you may have a reversing valve failure, low refrigerant, or compressor problem.
Requires Immediate Service
Grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds indicate mechanical problems. Hissing sounds may indicate refrigerant leaks. Normal sounds include whooshing during defrost.
Requires Service
Heat pumps cycling on and off every few minutes indicate thermostat problems, incorrect sizing, low refrigerant, or dirty filters/coils restricting airflow.
Requires Service
If your heat pump won't switch between heating and cooling or gets stuck in one mode, the reversing valve is likely failing and needs professional repair.
Requires Service
We test refrigerant levels, electrical components, defrost controls, reversing valve operation, and airflow to pinpoint the exact problem.
We explain what's wrong in plain language, why it happened, and what's needed to fix it. No confusing technical jargon.
You receive a written estimate before we begin repairs. We discuss all options including repair vs. replacement if applicable.
We complete repairs using quality parts and test the system thoroughly to ensure it's operating correctly before we leave.
$200–$400
$400–$800
$800–$2,000
| Temperature Range | Heat Pump Performance | Furnace Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Above 40°F | ✅ Excellent efficiency, low operating cost | ⚡ Works fine but higher operating cost |
| 32°F to 40°F | ✅ Good efficiency, moderate cost | ⚡ Consistent performance, moderate cost |
| 25°F to 32°F | ⚠️ Reduced efficiency, auxiliary heat activates | ✅ Excellent performance, consistent cost |
| Below 25°F | ❄️ Struggles, expensive auxiliary heat runs constantly | ✅ Peak performance, most cost-effective |
Many Toledo homeowners benefit from a dual-fuel system that uses a heat pump in mild weather (40°F+) and automatically switches to a gas furnace when temperatures drop below 32°F. This provides maximum efficiency and comfort year-round while minimizing heating costs.
Our technicians understand heat pump systems and Ohio winters. Call for expert diagnosis and repair.
Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm | Serving Toledo, Perrysburg, Sylvania, Maumee & surrounding areas
We provide heat pump repair services throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Click your city for local service information:
Energy-efficient heat pumps and dual-fuel systems.
New high-efficiency furnace systems with financing available for qualified buyers.
Same-day furnace repair service for all makes and models.
Fast air conditioner repair and cooling system diagnostics.
Ductless heating and cooling solutions for any room.
Special offers and financing available for qualified buyers.