By Bill McCarthy, Director, Residential Sales – Canada at Fujitsu General America
Despite what you’ve heard over the years from various mini-split manufacturers, base pan heaters are not always needed to achieve optimal heating performance in extremely cold climates in Canada, Alaska and some northern U.S. states.
There are many residential and commercial mini-splits on the market that can operate in frigid temperatures. In fact, many low-ambient mini splits are specifically engineered to operate at 100% efficiency down to zero degrees and at decreased efficiency when temps are sub-zero. Some mid-tier mini splits run at 100% efficiency down to -7°C and typically require a base pan heater, making them well-suited for moderate to cold climates. Other entry level systems, on the other hand, operate at 100% efficiency down to -1°C and may shut off when temperatures drop below -7°C, making them best for moderate to warm climates.
To prevent condensation from freezing in cold weather climates, some manufacturers offer mini-split systems with built-in base pan heaters, while others offer them as an added accessory that is purchased separately and requires additional installation. But a key question remains…Do you always need a base pan heater in ultra-frigid climates? Well, if you’re installing in a northern exposure, here’s full disclosure… base pan heaters may not be necessary.
If your customer lives in an extreme environment with sub-zero temps, look for a mini split solution featuring an advanced defrost cycle that automatically activates when necessary to melt ice buildup on the outdoor unit, preventing excessive frost and ice accumulation that can cause drainage issues. The design of the drain pan itself can also play an important role in helping to reduce the chance of freezing.
High-performing cold climate heat pumps leverage advanced inverter technology and variable-speed compressors, allowing them to adjust their power output based on the temperature. Additionally, look for a system with not only a good SEER rating, but a high HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) rating. The higher the HSPF rating, the better it will perform, offering customers even greater efficiency during the coldest winter months.
To prevent other coil issues, you should also look for heat pumps with copper tubing that have corrosion-resistant technology. This enhances the system’s durability and helps maintain the refrigeration system’s integrity without reducing capacity. Corrosion-resistant copper is stronger and more resilient than standard copper, helping to prevent pitting and corrosion—even in the harshest environments.
There are only a few mini split manufacturers that can deliver best-in-class heating performance in sub-zero temps, right out of the box, without the need for any add-on accessories. For example, Fujitsu General offers a heat pump that’s specifically engineered with an advanced defrost cycle and drainage system design that’s proven to mitigate outside coil damage in extremely cold temps as low as -20°C… without a base pan heater. It also has a refrigerant system with no lockout temperature in heating mode, so the system won’t shut off, no matter what the temperature.
Before recommending a specific HVAC system, carefully review your equipment options and make sure the features and specifications of the outdoor unit will enable the heat pump to operate efficiently in your customer’s climate. The last thing you want is to repair or install a replacement unit in the middle of a blizzard if it suddenly shuts off or isn’t adequately heating your customer’s home. No matter what the temperature, you work hard all year long – and you need an HVAC system that does too. By installing high-performing, dependable heat pumps, you can provide your customers with long-lasting comfort and peace of mind, year-round.