So, you want to buy a heat pump for your home. Now what? The next step is to talk to your contractor. But before you do, here are the top five questions to ask them. These will help you understand what to look for in a heat pump so that you make the best choice.

1. What type of heat pump is best for my home?

There are several types of heat pumps, but the right one for you will depend on what heating system you already have at home. Do you have a central heating system, like a furnace or boiler? Or do you have a room-by-room heating system, such as baseboard heaters? Your contractor can tell you which heat pump will work best with or replace your setup, and give you advice on whether it qualifies for a rebate.

Heat pumps for a mini-split heating system (top) and a central heating system (bottom)

2. What size do I need?

When it comes to heat pumps, size matters. Think of it like Goldilocks and the Three Bears—you want one that's just right. Too small, and your heat pump could struggle to keep up, forcing backup systems to kick in more frequently. Too big, and it could cycle on and off too much, wasting energy and wearing it out.¹ So, finding the perfect size is key to staying comfy and saving money.

To figure out what size of heat pump is right for your home, your contractor can do a heat load calculation. This helps make sure your system works as efficiently as possible.

Contractors can use the data from a blower door test in their heat load calculations

3. How efficient is it?

Efficient heat pumps use less energy to heat and cool your home than systems like electric furnaces or baseboards, which can help cut down on your energy bills.² They also come with efficiency ratings that can tell you how well they work. The higher the rating, the more efficient the heat pump.³

The two main ratings are:

• Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): This rating measures how well the heat pump cools your home during the summer.
• Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF): This rating measures how well the heat pump heats your home during the winter.

Make sure to ask your contractor how a heat pump’s efficiency rating compares to other models. You can also ask them to explain how certain features like variable-speed compressors or smart thermostats can help increase your heat pump system’s efficiency even more.

4. How do I take care of it?

Before signing off on a heat pump, it’s important to know how to keep it in good shape. Taking care of your heat pump is key to making sure it works as safely and efficiently as possible. Chat with your contractor about our heat pump service rebates and what’s involved in a typical heat pump checkup.

5. Are there any rebates available?

Yes, you could save money on your new heat pump by applying for a rebate. Remember, you can only qualify for a heat pump rebate if you’re switching from an electric heating system. Other terms and conditions apply.

Our two rebate offers include:

• Whole home heating rebate: You could receive up to $4,000 when you complete a heat load calculation and install an eligible cold-climate heat pump. This type of heat pump provides the necessary heat for your home in winter to maximize your energy savings.
• Partial home heating rebate: If you’re not eligible for the whole home heating rebate, you could get up to $1,500 with a partial home heating rebate when you have an eligible heat pump installed.

Find an electrical contractor

Search our directory of 500+ licensed electrical contractors across B.C. to find one in your community who can service your heat pump. Learn about the requirements for contractors to be listed in our directory, and get tips for hiring a contractor.

We’re here to help

If you have questions about rebates, contact us or call us at 1-855-909-2331.

¹Natural Resources Canada | Heating and cooling with a heat pump, sizing considerations

²Natural Resources Canada | Heat pump basics

³Natural Resources Canada |Air-source heat pumps