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In Québec, where temperatures can swing from −30 °C in winter to over 30 °C in summer, a heat pump is one of the most versatile solutions for maintaining consistent comfort while reducing electricity consumption by up to 40% compared to conventional resistance-based heating systems.
By reversing its refrigeration cycle, the device extracts heat from outside air to transfer it indoors (heating mode) or removes indoor heat during the summer (cooling mode).
This in-depth guide covers:
Some residential heat pumps for the Canadian market are assembled in North America, in manufacturing plants located in Texas, Tennessee, or Arizona.
Other models—especially ultra-efficient wall-mounted units using R-32 refrigerant and certain multi-zone systems—are manufactured in Asia, primarily Japan, Thailand, or Malaysia. These units undergo rigorous testing, including low-temperature performance tests, to ensure their reliability in cold climates.
Once manufacturing is complete, sea transit to Canada typically takes six to eight weeks. The heat pumps are received at specialized distribution centres that stock original parts (fans, circuit boards, sensors, etc.), ensuring quick access for installation or maintenance.
Selecting a heat pump goes beyond comparing specs or prices. It depends first on the match between the system type and the specific needs of the building. Floor space, room configuration, insulation, available installation space, and even occupant habits all play a crucial role.
There are several main heat pump families, each suited to different contexts—from retrofitting a small condo to central heating for a multi-zone home.
A wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split) consists of a compact outdoor compressor and one or more indoor wall-mounted units. These systems are ductless, making them ideal for homes where adding ventilation ducts would be too costly or impractical.
Typical applications: condos, dwellings with no utility room, home additions, isolated rooms (offices, solariums, finished basements), or as a supplement to an existing central system.
Benefits:
Cautions:
Representative models:
Tip for condos: Be aware of condo board rules and municipal noise regulations—our separate guide on installing wall-mounted heat pumps in condos covers key points.
If ductwork already exists—or is included in a renovation—central heat pumps offer an effective solution for evenly distributing heating and cooling throughout the home. This setup is ideal for multi-storey houses or large open spaces where temperature consistency and air quality are key.
In addition to maintaining a stable temperature, central heat pumps support high-capacity add-ons like full-size HEPA filters or air exchangers. Rigorous maintenance is essential for long-term performance—our guide to central heat pump maintenance outlines best practices.
Typical applications: large single-family homes, renovations replacing electric/gas furnaces, or new builds with centralized ventilation.
Benefits:
Cautions:
Representative configurations:
Choosing a configuration depends on how many indoor heads you need, which impacts both thermal control and cost. Our single-zone vs. multi-zone comparison breaks this down:
Criteria | Single-Zone | Multi-Zone |
Number of indoor units | 1 | 2 to 9 |
Temperature control | Centralized | Independent per room |
Initial cost | $$ | $$$–$$$$ |
Ideal scenario | Open loft, large room | Multi-storey home, family with varied schedules |
TThree main families of heat pumps dominate the market—air-to-air, air-to-water, and geothermal—each with its own characteristics in terms of efficiency, cost, and implementation. Our comparison article on air-to-air, air-to-water, and geothermal systems offers a more detailed overview. The table below summarizes their strengths and limitations:
Technology | Annual Efficiency | Initial Cost | Maintenance | Notable Features |
Air-to-air | ★★★★ | $$–$$$ | Low | Heats down to −25 °C with cold-climate models |
Air-to-water | ★★★★ | $$$ | Medium | Ideal for radiant floor systems or major renos |
Geothermal | ★★★★★ | $$$$ | Low | COP > 4, requires drilling, pays off in 12–15 yrs |
Oversizing causes the heat pump to run in short cycles—hitting the set temperature quickly, stopping, and restarting. This wears out the compressor, reduces summer dehumidification, and increases energy consumption.
Undersizing forces the unit to run at full power for longer periods, leading to more frequent icing and triggering the electric backup more often in winter.
Building Type | Quick Power Estimate¹ |
High-performance new build (2020+) | ~90 BTU/h per m² |
Well-insulated home (2000–2020) | ~100–110 BTU/h per m² |
1980–1990 buildings or large window areas | ~120 BTU/h per m² |
¹These figures are indicative for the Québec climate. Refine with the following adjustments:
Before finalizing your choice, request a heat load calculation in accordance with CSA F280 (via software or HRAI worksheet). A certified installer should provide this and confirm the selected capacity is within the 90–120 BTU/h per m² range, adjusted to your actual home.
Before looking at numbers, remember:
Index | What It Measures | Good Value in Québec | What It Means |
SEER | Seasonal cooling efficiency | >18 | Each SEER point saves ~5% on summer bills. SEER 27 uses ~35% less than SEER 18. |
HSPF | Seasonal heating efficiency | >10 | Higher means less reliance on electric backup. Canada now requires HSPF > 8.5. |
COP @ –8°C | Instant heating output per kWh used | >2.5 | COP 3 = 3 kWh heat per 1 kWh electricity. Performance drops as outdoor temp drops. |
Daikin’s technical sheets also indicate Net Heating Capacity @ −25 °C, confirming whether the unit still heats without backup resistance in extreme cold.
Component | Reference Value | What It Means for You |
Indoor unit | Emura and Atmosphera go as low as 19 dB(A) in Silent mode (like rustling leaves). | Can be installed in bedrooms, offices, or reading rooms without disturbance. |
Outdoor unit | 46–52 dB(A) at 1 m (depends on model). Night Mode lowers compressor and fan speed during programmed hours (e.g., 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.). | Meets noise bylaws and keeps your neighbours happy. |
In practice: the pre-filter and titanium filter are sufficient for standard residential use.
Add a HEPA module if someone in the home has asthma or severe allergies—choosing the right HEPA filter for a heat pump can significantly improve indoor air quality—and opt for models equipped with a Flash-Streamer to neutralize odours and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Because a heat pump must operate for over a decade in a climate as demanding as Québec’s, manufacturers incorporate several hardware innovations designed to enhance performance and reliability; the most critical ones are listed in the table below.
Key Feature | Immediate User Benefit | Long-Term Benefit |
DC Inverter Compressor | Modulates from ~10 Hz to ~120 Hz based on demand. | Up to 30% savings vs. fixed-speed; fewer startups, less wear. |
High-lift Fan Blades | Steady airflow, even in Silent mode. | Better dehumidification and static pressure in ducted systems. |
Blue Fin / Gold Fin Coating | Anti-corrosion treatment on coils. | Resists salt/snow melt damage, preserves thermal efficiency. |
Thermistor + Adaptive Defrost | Defrosts only when frost is detected. | Reduces heating interruptions and energy use; protects compressor. |
Field studies (DOE and NREL projects over 8–10 years) show that heat pumps incorporating these technologies retain most—about 80%—of their original heating capacity, provided they receive proper annual maintenance (filter cleaning and professional inspection).
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has shown that most heat pumps and air conditioners underperform in real-world conditions due to installation errors—such as incorrect refrigerant charge, poorly sealed ducts, or inadequate airflow.
Before signing an installation contract, confirm the contractor has the proper licences and insurance for handling refrigerants, electrical work, and duct balancing. Here’s what to check:
Licence / Requirement | Area of Expertise | Why It’s Essential |
RBQ 15.10 – Refrigeration | Refrigerant handling, brazing, vacuum-pulling | Ensures system sealing and protects compressor warranty |
RBQ 15.1 – Warm Air Heating | Duct adjustments, static pressure balancing | Ensures sufficient airflow and quiet operation |
Licence 16 (CMEQ) | Panel connection, breakers, drain heat cable | Prevents overloads and complies with electrical code |
$2M+ liability insurance | Coverage for on-site damages | Protects both homeowner and contractor from unexpected issues |
Installing a heat pump is far more than connecting two pipes. It follows a clear process from load calculation to final commissioning:
Before giving the go-ahead, make sure all the following are clearly included in writing:
A heat pump can easily reach—or even exceed—fifteen years of service, provided it follows a regular maintenance schedule. Tasks range from simple actions you can do yourself to more advanced professional inspections. The ideal maintenance frequency and signs of failure are well known and should be taken into account to ensure long-term durability.
The following table outlines the maintenance tasks divided between basic operations that homeowners can perform and those that require the expertise of a certified technician. For step-by-step procedures—such as coil cleaning, recommended products, and safety precautions—we explain how to clean a heat pump effectively, safely, and optimally.
Frequency | Homeowner Tasks | Technician Tasks | Goal |
4–8 weeks | Vacuum or rinse indoor filters | — | Optimal airflow, healthier air |
Every 6 months | Clear leaves/snow from outdoor unit, check drain slope | — | Prevent icing and water leaks |
Every 12 months | — | Chemical coil cleaning, static pressure & current check, firmware update, leak test | Maintain SEER/HSPF, extend lifespan, keep warranty valid |
Even with regular maintenance, certain warning signs can still appear—such as leaks, odours, frost buildup, or reduced performance. The table below lists the most commonly reported issues along with the first steps to take; for each case, a detailed article will guide you step by step toward a complete solution.
Problem | Likely Cause | First Action | Help Article |
Indoor water leak | Blocked or misaligned drain | Flush/vacuum drain, realign elbow | |
No heat at −5 °C | Faulty defrost cycle, frosted sensor | Clean sensor, check auto-defrost | |
Bad odour | Mouldy coil, saturated filter | Clean coil, replace filter | |
Excess exterior frost | Blocked fan, poor airflow | Remove ice, check fan | (Coming soon) |
High hydro bill | Wrong refrigerant charge, bad thermostat setting | Check pressure, reprogram schedule | (Coming soon) |
12–15 years for a well-maintained unit; Inverter models may last over 18 years if coils are protected and defrost is well-calibrated.
Regular maintenance is essential to preserve the performance, air quality, and warranty of your heat pump. You have two options: subscribe to an annual maintenance contract or use on-demand service. The structure below will help you compare both approaches.
Benefits | Details |
Scheduled preventive visit | Full inspection, chemical cleaning, pressure/current check, firmware update |
Fixed cost | Flat fee ($200–$300/year*) includes labour for preventive visit |
Repair discounts | Reduced hourly rate or waived travel fee for non-warranty work |
Priority service | Faster response during heat waves or cold spells |
Maintenance record | Annual report retained—useful for resale or extended warranty validation |
Advantages | Considerations |
Budget flexibility | Schedule visits when needed |
Choice of technician | You can switch providers depending on price or availability |
Variable costs | Preventive visit: $180–$250*; Emergency repair: $120/h + travel |
No automatic reminders | You must remember filter changes and yearly checkups |
Lower service priority | Contract customers usually served first in peak season |
*The prices mentioned are estimates based on recent data for Québec. They may vary depending on the region, type of unit, chosen company, and included services. For more accurate information, it is recommended to consult local professionals.
Always request a written quote detailing what’s included, excluded parts, intervention timelines, and cancellation terms.
Purchasing an energy-efficient heat pump can be made more affordable with various financial incentives: government grants, municipal programs, manufacturer rebates, and flexible financing options. This section summarizes active 2025 offers, seasonal promotions, and typical financing solutions.
From the provincial LogisVert program to targeted municipal rebates, available funding changes frequently. Here’s a snapshot as of May 2025:
Program (May 2025) | Maximum Amount | Main Conditions |
LogisVert – Hydro-Québec | Up to $7,840 | Eligible ultra-efficient heat pump (listed), installed by approved contractor, application before Aug 25, 2025 |
Canada Greener Homes Grant | Up to $5,000 (existing cases only) | Closed to new applicants since Feb 2024. Existing files processed through provincial partners like Rénoclimat |
Municipal Credit – e.g., “Montréal Heat Pump” | $250 to $500 | Home over 20 years old, replacement of fossil/electric resistance system, renovation permit from the City |
Note: Grant amounts and eligibility vary by region, product, company, and included services. Always check official program sites for the most current information.
Offer Type | Details | Period | Conditions |
Seasonal Discounts | Specials on Aurora and Atmosphera wall models. Instant rebates or low-rate financing. | Spring and Fall | Limited to stock; terms updated on the Promotions page. |
“Total Comfort” Bundle | Heat pump + Daikin One+ smart thermostat at package pricing. | During campaigns | Availability-dependent; varies by model and region |
Promotions valid while supplies last or until terms change. Check the Promotions page regularly for updates.
Even if grants lower the overall cost, there is often a remaining balance to finance. Financial institutions and certain HVAC partners offer various options—from interest-free deferred payments to long-term green loans—that allow you to tailor payments to your budget.
Financing Option | Indicative Rate | Typical Term | Main Advantage |
12-Month Deferred Payment | 0% | 12 months | No interest if balance is paid in full within the year |
Low-Rate Credit | From 5.99% | 24–60 months | Flexible monthly payments (e.g., <$150/month for $7,000) |
Green Loan (Desjardins, BNC, etc.) | Variable rate | Up to 10 years | Long amortization—ideal for geothermal or large renos |
Rates and terms depend on credit profile, chosen term, and lender. Always request a written quote before committing.
To quickly identify which unit suits your needs—a high-performance wall model for a condo, a compact central for existing ducts, or a multi-zone system for whole-home coverage—here’s a summary of Daikin’s top lines for Québec’s climate:
Model | Type | SEER (AHRI ref.) | HSPF (AHRI ref.) | Key Feature |
Atmosphera | Wall-mounted | 27.4 | 13.8 | Ultra-efficient R-32, maintains heat at −25 °C |
Aurora | Wall-mounted | 19.5 – 21.5 | 10 – 11 | Cold climate heating, nominal heat to −25 °C |
Emura | Wall-mounted | 18.9 | 10.6 | Sleek Euro design, ultra-quiet at 19 dB(A) |
FIT | Central | 16 – 18 | 9 – 10 | Compact size for retrofit into existing ductwork |
VRV Life | Central multi-zone | 18.0 – 18.6 | 9.0 – 9.2 | Up to 9 zones (wall, ducted, plenum); individual control |
Performance may vary based on BTU capacity and indoor/outdoor unit combinations. Always check the corresponding AHRI sheet before finalizing.
Beyond the choice of the heat pump itself, control accessories and built-in features play a major role in day-to-day comfort: precise temperature regulation, humidity control, and ambient air purification. The table below outlines what a next-generation smart thermostat—such as the Daikin One⁺ or One Lite—can offer, followed by three automated modes that further enhance the user experience.
Function | User Benefit |
Advanced scheduling | Auto nighttime setbacks (~2 °C), ramp-up before wake time = 5–10% energy savings |
Run-time & estimated energy usage | App shows cycles, usage stats—spot abnormal settings quickly |
Geofencing | Detects when users leave; automatically switches to Eco mode |
Alerts & monthly reports | Filter reminders, annual service alerts, usage comparisons with provincial averages |
Functionality may vary by model/configuration. Always confirm with specs or a certified pro.
To create a realistic budget, it’s best to understand the general cost ranges—including equipment, labour, and accessories. The table below outlines typical price ranges observed in Québec for various configurations; these serve as a reference before requesting a personalized quote.
System Type | Example Capacity | Equipment Price | Typical Installation¹ | Total Range (System + Install) |
Wall-mounted (1 zone) | 12,000 BTU | $3,000 – $5,000 | $1,000 – $2,000 | $4,000 – $7,000 |
Central (36,000 BTU) | 36,000 BTU | $5,000 – $7,500 | $2,000 – $3,500 | $7,000 – $11,000 |
Multi-zone (2 heads) | 2 × 12,000 BTU | $6,000 – $9,000 | $2,000 – $3,000 | $8,000 – $12,000 |
Additional head | 9,000–12,000 BTU | $1,500 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,000 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
*The price ranges provided are for reference only and may vary based on several factors, including:
¹“Standard” installation assumes no major duct modifications or electrical panel upgrades.
Question | Quick Answer |
1. How cold can a cold-climate heat pump operate? | Most certified units still heat well at −20 °C and continue down to −25 °C. |
2. How does the defrost cycle work in winter? | It briefly reverses cycle to melt frost on outdoor coil (5–10 mins); steam is normal. |
3. What’s the difference between SEER, HSPF, and COP? | SEER = cooling; HSPF = seasonal heating; COP = instant heating at a set temp |
4. Are heat pumps really quiet? | New models run as low as 19 dB(A) indoors; outdoor units often have night mode |
5. How much can I save vs. electric baseboards? | Up to 3× more efficient = major savings on your Hydro bill |
6. How often should it be serviced? | Clean filters every 1–3 months, clear coils, get annual pro inspection |
7. What’s the average lifespan? | About 15 years; Inverter units can last 18+ years with proper care |
8. R-32 or R-410A—what’s better? | R-32 has 70% lower global warming potential and better efficiency—now the norm |
9. Can I use a smart thermostat? | Yes—most new models are compatible with apps and voice assistants |
10. What size (BTU) is right for my home? | 9,000 BTU = up to 50 m²; 12,000 BTU = 50–100 m²; 18,000 BTU = 100–150 m² |
11. How long does installation take? | Single-zone wall unit: 4–6 hours; central/multi-zone: 1–2 days (incl. testing) |
Choosing a high-efficiency heat pump is one of the best ways to enjoy year-round comfort in Québec while reducing energy use and your carbon footprint. Whether you choose wall-mounted, central, or geothermal:
Request an evaluation today: a proper load calculation and detailed quote will help you choose the heat pump best suited for your home—for reliable, energy-smart, and lasting comfort, winter or summer.
Founded in 1924, Daikin is the world’s largest manufacturer of heating and air conditioning products. Daikin specializes in the development of air conditioning/heating and refrigerant products.
