Wall-mounted heat pumps are an increasingly popular solution for heating and cooling homes in Québec. They offer excellent energy efficiency, optimal thermal comfort, and relatively simple installation. But should you choose a single-zone or multi-zone heat pump? This guide will help you decide based on your needs.
What is a wall-mounted heat pump?
A wall-mounted heat pump captures outdoor heat to warm or cool your home. It consists of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units mounted on the wall. There are two main types: single-zone and multi-zone.
- A single-zone heat pump is designed to heat or cool one room. It’s ideal for small spaces like condos, studios, or single large rooms with consistent temperature needs.
- A multi-zone heat pump can manage several rooms with one outdoor unit. Each indoor unit is controlled independently, providing personalized comfort for each zone of the home.
Why Choose a Ductless Wall-Mounted Heat Pump?
Ductless systems are especially suited to homes without central ventilation. Their installation is faster and less costly, as no ductwork is required. They also offer excellent energy performance, reducing electricity consumption while maintaining stable comfort.
Additionally, they allow for precise temperature control—via remote or mobile app—and are often quieter than traditional systems.
Comparison: Single-Zone vs Multi-Zone Heat Pump
Understanding the differences is essential before making your choice.
Single-Zone Heat Pump: Affordable and Efficient
A single-zone unit is an economical and easy-to-install solution for heating or cooling a single space. It’s ideal when only one zone requires temperature control. Its main benefit is low cost—both to purchase and install—while delivering optimized energy use in small areas.
However, it has limitations. If you need to manage temperature across multiple rooms or a large area with varying thermal needs, a single-zone system may fall short.
Multi-Zone Heat Pump: Flexible, Customized Comfort
A multi-zone system powers several indoor units with one outdoor unit. Each zone can be managed independently, which is ideal for multi-level homes or households where occupants prefer different settings.
Though installation is more complex and costly, it provides superior comfort and optimized energy use since only active zones consume power. It’s a worthwhile investment for larger homes or anyone seeking precise climate control.
Available Daikin Heat Pump Models
Daikin offers several wall-mounted heat pump models well-suited for Québec homes.
| Model | Type | Energy Efficiency | Key Features |
| ATMOSPHERA | Single-zone | Up to 27.4 SEER2 | High performance, maintains 100% capacity at -20°C |
| AURORA | Single-zone | High efficiency | Built for cold climates, effective heating down to -15°C |
| EMURA | Single-zone | Efficient | Elegant design and advanced heating/cooling capabilities |
| AURORA MXLH | Multi-zone | Very high | Optimal comfort even in extreme cold |
| CIRRA | Multi-zone | Optimized | Connects up to two indoor units to a single outdoor unit |
Energy Savings and Financial Advantages
Heat pumps dramatically reduce energy consumption thanks to Inverter technology, which automatically adjusts power output based on real-time heating or cooling needs. This maintains consistent comfort without overuse.
High-efficiency models can save up to $500 annually* in heating costs. By optimizing energy usage, these systems reduce environmental impact while providing unparalleled comfort.
* Actual savings may vary depending on the heat pump model, energy consumption habits, and current utility rates in Quebec.
Financial Incentives for Heat Pump Installation
Several grants and financial incentives are available in Québec to support the purchase and installation of heat pumps.
| Program | Financial Support |
| Hydro-Québec (LogisVert) | Rebate for energy-efficient heat pump installation |
| RénoClimat | Up to $1,900 for heat pump installation |
| Énergir | Up to $7,300 for conversion to dual-energy heating |
These incentives greatly reduce upfront costs, making heat pump ownership even more attractive long term.
Installation and Needs Assessment
Installation must be carried out by a professional, who will assess several factors to recommend the best model for your home.
| Consideration | Why It Matters |
| Home size | Determines required output for optimal comfort |
| Number of occupants | Affects heating/cooling demand |
| Building insulation | Better insulation lowers energy loss |
Installation Costs* (estimates):
- Single-zone heat pump: $3,000 to $5,000
- Multi-zone heat pump: $5,000 to $12,000 (varies by number of indoor units)
*The prices listed are general estimates and may vary depending on the heat pump model, installation complexity, home layout, and labor rates in Quebec. It is recommended to request a personalized quote for an accurate evaluation.
Conclusion
Choosing between a single-zone and multi-zone heat pump depends on the size of your home, number of rooms to be climate-controlled, and your budget.
- If you want an affordable and efficient option for a single room, go with a single-zone.
- For tailored comfort across multiple rooms, a multi-zone offers more control and flexibility.
With Daikin’s high-performance models, available financial incentives, and significant energy savings, installing a heat pump is a smart, long-term investment for your home.
