Breaking Up with Backup Heat: Heat Pumps that Stand Alone in Cold Climates

Ready to ditch the “just in case” electric resistance backup?

Cold-climate heat pumps have come a long way, but many builders and HVAC contractors still default to electric resistance backup heat “just in case.” This session challenges that assumption and shows how to design and install systems that deliver comfort and reliability without oversized or unnecessary backup heat elements.

Christopher Dymond, Senior Product Manager at NEEA, will outline the technical advances that make this possible, including variable-speed performance, smarter controls, and integration strategies for smaller, staged backup heat when truly needed. Joining him is Matt Ryan of Petra Heating, who will share his real-world journey from skepticism to confidence in installing heat pumps without traditional resistance backup.

Attendees will learn practical design considerations, control strategies, and commissioning tips that align with new energy codes and high-performance building goals. Whether you’re a builder, HERS rater, or code official, this session will help you rethink old habits and embrace solutions that reduce costs, improve efficiency, and deliver comfort…even when the temperature drops.