Short answer: Yes – and very well.
Heat pumps used to struggle in cold climates, but today’s technology has changed the story. Modern cold‑climate heat pumps are designed to handle Midwest winters — including what we get in southeast Michigan.
How a heat pump works:
Instead of creating heat by burning fuel (like a furnace), a heat pump moves heat from outside air into your home. Even when it’s cold outside, there is still heat energy in the air. A heat pump pulls that heat inside — efficiently.
Why they work in Michigan now:
Cold‑climate models heat efficiently down into the single digits. When temperatures drop even lower, most Michigan homes use a dual‑fuel setup and the furnace only runs on the extreme cold snaps.
Added benefits:
They also cool your home. A heat pump is a heater and an air conditioner in one system.
They lower energy costs. Because they move heat rather than make it, heat pumps are often cheaper to operate than gas furnaces or straight AC units.
When a heat pump makes the most sense:
- You want one system for heating and cooling.
- You want to cut utility bills or reduce natural gas use.
- You want to take advantage of rebates and tax credits, which can significantly reduce installation cost.
Bottom line:
Heat pumps absolutely work in Michigan. They are quiet, efficient, comfortable, and a smart way to reduce energy costs. In a dual‑fuel setup, you never have to worry about extreme cold because your furnace becomes the backup, not the primary system.
Want to know if your home is ready for a heat pump? The Mechanical Extremes Team can explore your needs to see if a heat pump is the right solution for you.