b2e@zeic.ca
A heat pump is a smart, energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home using electricity instead of gas. In British Columbia, where electricity is mostly clean, switching to a heat pump can cut down your home's carbon emissions by 97%. They keep you cozy in winter and cool in the summer, all while saving energy.
Here's what this article will cover:
- The types of heat pumps available
- How to find and vet contractors
- Key questions to ask
- Additional homeowner tips
What type of heat pumps are available?
- Air-source heat pumps are the most common and work well in most homes.
- Ductless mini-splits are great for homes without ductwork or for adding heating/cooling to specific rooms.
- Central ducted heat pumps are great for homes with existing forced air furnaces, providing centralized heating/cooling throughout the home.
- Ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps are very efficient and low-cost to operate, but more expensive to install.
Finding a Quality Contractor
Choosing a qualified and high-quality contractor is key to getting a system that keeps you comfortable and has a long lifespan
Where to Look?
- Home Performance Contractor Network (HPCN) – Find professionals who are trained in building science fundamentals and follow best practices. Using a registered contractor can help you qualify for utility and government rebates.
- Industry associations like TECA and HRAI. Ask your contractor if they are a member and if they have taken any of their training courses.
- Personal recommendations - ask friends or neighbours who have had heat pumps installed. Find out about their experience and if they have any tips to share.
Questions to Ask
- Are you trained by the manufacturer on the heat pump you plan to install?
- What industry technical training have you taken?
- How do you decide the right size heat pump for my home?
- Will you assess my ductwork, airflow and home layout?
- Will I need an electrical panel upgrade?
- Where will the equipment be installed?
- Can you show me how to use and maintain the system?
- Do you offer equipment and labour warranties?
- Do you offer rebate support?
- Can I speak to past customers?
Watch out for Upselling and Alternative Solutions
- Some contractors may suggest both a heat pump and a furnace, but in mild climates like Vancouver Island or the Lower Mainland, a properly sized heat pump is enough. These models work efficiently, even at –25 °C.
- A contractor may suggest a gas furnace or boiler for back-up during outages, but most still need electricity to run fans and controls.
- The more equipment you have results in more maintenance and higher costs.
Electrical Planning Upgrades: Do you Need One?
Not always! If the contractor suggests that you do, first ask them to check your home's historical electricity use. Login to your account, download a year of data, and ask a licensed electrician to apply Technical Safety BC’s information bulletin on Rule 8-106 8). You might already have enough capacity. If not, consider:
- Load management devices to avoid upgrades.
- Planning for future needs like EV chargers or induction stoves.
Learn more about electrifying your home without upgrading your electrical service in the Homeowner’s Guide to Electrical Load Management
Smart Tips for Homeowners
Before Installation:
- Get 2–3 quotes. Compare prices, brands, efficiency, and warranties.
- Be clear with contractors. Communicate your needs (e.g., better air quality, independent suite controls) to get the right design.
- Improve efficiency where feasible. Consider improving insulation and air sealing your home first, which can reduce the size and cost of your heat pump.
- Check local bylaws. Noise and placement rules may apply.
- Find rebates. Visit CleanBC Better Homes.
Choosing the Right System
- Get the right size. A heat pump that’s too big or small wastes energy and costs more to run.
- Ask for a room-by-room heat loss/gain analysis to inform equipment sizing based on your individual home’s insulation, windows, and climate zone.
- Avoid “rule-of-thumb” sizing. It can lead to inaccuracies and poor performance.
- Choose a cold-climate inverter-driven model. Look for low-temperatures ratings (to –25°C) and variable-speed compressors to achieve the best performance across all temperatures and whisper quiet operation.
- Understand whether a secondary system is needed. In very cold climates your contractor may recommend a secondary electric or gas heating source.
After Installation
- Request documentation. Ask for a signed copy of the start-up checklist or verification report.
- Ask for controls training. A great contractor will provide training on user controls and things to avoid to obtain the best heat pump performance.
- If you have a secondary heating source. Ask about the system’s switchover temperature and why that temperature was selected. Ensure that your contractor considers implications to your carbon footprint and utility bill, and does not use rule-of-thumb logic.
- Keep receipts. Save all documents. Warranty for parts and labour can be covered for up to 5–10 years.
Rebates, Grants and Supports
Rebates may be available for heat pumps, insulation, and other upgrades.
- Some municipalities offer extra grants or virtual energy check-ups.
- Financing options may be available—check with CleanBC or your local government.
Every Home is Unique
Whether you’re looking for a climate-friendly heating solution, wanting to cool your home, or looking for a super-efficient low-cost HVAC system, a heat pump is a great investment!
Remember, every home is unique and your contractor will help you find the unique solution to fit your needs. Contractors are busy, so start planning early to avoid delays. Using the tips above, you will be well equipped to start your path to home decarbonization.
