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Central Ducted Heat Pump

Space heating is the largest use of energy in our homes and a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. An air-source central heat pump is a highly efficient, climate-friendly and modern alternative to a natural gas, oil or electric furnace.

What are the benefits?

Enjoy energy-efficient heating in the winter and cooling in the summer.

In BC, electricity is 97% renewable. Electric heat pumps are a clean energy alternative to gas or oil (both fossil fuels), or wood heating that can reduce your space heating carbon footprint by over 90%.

Heat pumps are the most energy-efficient heating system currently available and are up to 3 to 4 times more efficient than conventional electric or fossil fuel heating.

Heat pumps provide air filtration and humidity control that helps rid your home of indoor pollutants, dust, pollen and other allergens.

Safe, quiet, convenient operation and simple to maintain.

How does it work?

A heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and transfers this heat to the inside by compressing and expanding refrigerant when heating. If cooling, the heat pump works in the opposite direction. A central heat pump uses ductwork connected to vents in your home to circulate warmed or cooled air. Central heat pumps provide whole-home heating.

What are the costs?

Costs for purchasing and installing a central heat pump system can vary significantly based on the size and floor plan of your home; the type, make and model of system; as well as design and installation considerations.

The average cost for installing a high-efficiency central heat pump in an existing home ranges from $8,000 to $20,000.

The right system for your home

Optimal performance from a new high-efficiency heat pump depends on many factors.

Working with a registered contractor means you are working with someone that is trained in the industry best practices. It is also a requirement to access provincial heat pump rebates. Visit betterhomesbc.ca/ea/ to find a contractor that services your area.

Be sure to get multiple quotes to compare costs, efficiency ratings, installation approaches and product warranties. The lowest cost system may not be the best option for your home.

To allow your heat pump to operate at maximum efficiency, avoid frequently adjusting your thermostat. Set your thermostat to your preferred temperature and forget it.

Arrange for professional servicing of your heat pump at the manufacturer’s recommended interval. Consult the owner’s manual for more details.

All heating systems work more effectively in homes that are more energy-efficient. Consider upgrading your insulation, windows and improving the air tightness of your home. Rebates are available!

Additional Resources

Combine provincial and federal programs for maximum rebates!

CleanBC - Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program
Canada Greener Homes Loan
CleanBC - Better Homes Energy Savings Program

The Home Energy Navigator Program acknowledges that it conducts its business on the Traditional Territory of the Lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples. We recognize the First Nations governments across this region-Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees) and Xwsepsum (Esquimalt) Nations here in the core area, the W̱SÁNEĆ Nations {W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip), BOḰEĆEN (Pauquachin), SȾÁUTW̱,(Tsawout) W̱SIKEM (Tseycum)} out on the Saanich Peninsula and Gulf Islands, to the west Sc’ianew (Beecher Bay), T’Sou-ke, and Pacheedaht, and MÁLEXEȽ (Malahat) and Pune’laxutth’ (Penelekut) Nationsconnection to the land that continues to this day.

What to Ask Your Heat Pump ContractorDuctless Mini-Split Heat Pump