How Well do Heat Pumps Work in Cold Weather? There is a misconception that heat pumps don’t work in cold climates. That is untrue. Heat pump technology has worked extremely well in colder weather over the last number of years. With innovation and technological advancements, including stronger defrost cycles, units that work up to minus 30°C are common today. Most homeowners will realize that they’ve made a great choice by utilizing a technology that is great for the environment, helps reduce carbon emissions, and will still heat your home effectively even at temperatures as low as -25°C to -30°C.