Split heat pumps

Ductless mini-split air source heat pump

If you are looking for an energy efficient way to heat and cool your home, you may want to consider ductless mini-split air source heat pumps (sometimes called a “mini-split” heat pump).

They operate on the same principle as conventional heat pumps. Using electricity, they compress and expand a refrigerant to move heat between outdoor and indoor air.

Mini-split heat pumps are ideal for existing homes with electric baseboard/wall heaters (or where ducting is not available or desired). They can also be installed in new homes to save space, installation time and money.

Mini-split heat pumps are very efficient for several reasons:

Since the heated or cooled air is delivered directly to the room, ductless heat pumps avoid efficiency losses associated with ductwork – typically 15-20 per cent.
Many models use a variable speed compressor, usually labeled “inverter technology”; this avoids on-off cycling losses. When maximum heat/cooling is not required, the compressor will use less energy saving you money.
Because they provide heat/cooling to specific areas of the house, they can be more efficient since each “zone” can be heated , or cooled to the desired temperature.

Mini-split heat pumps are available up to 26 SEER and 12 HSPF.

As with any type of air source heat pump, a back-up source or auxiliary heat source is recommended for when the outdoor air temperature is too low for the heat pump to provide sufficient heat. Auxiliary heat may also be required in rooms and areas which are not conditioned by the ductless modules.

FortisBC PowerSense provides rebates for ENERGY STAR® qualified ductless mini-split air source heat pumps products that have been installed by a qualified contractor.