Heat Pump Installation in the Outaouais

Ductless or central

Homes without ductwork, or with additions and finished basements that are hard to heat evenly, generally do better with a ductless system, since each indoor head conditions its own zone directly. Homes with an existing forced-air furnace and reasonably sized ducts can often add a central heat pump that shares the same distribution system.

• Ductless: room-by-room control, no ductwork required
• Central: uses existing ducts, works with one thermostat
• Multi-zone ductless for additions or renovated spaces
• Central heat pumps paired with the backup heat already in place

Cold-climate performance and defrost cycles

Cold-climate heat pumps are built to keep producing heat well below freezing, but capacity does decline as temperatures drop, and the outdoor unit periodically runs a defrost cycle to clear frost from the coil. During defrost the system briefly pauses heating, which is normal operation, not a fault. Homeowners moving from a furnace sometimes notice this cycle for the first time and mistake it for a problem.

Sizing for Outaouais winters

A heat pump sized only for summer cooling will underperform in January. We size based on your home's heat loss at typical winter design temperatures for this region, and discuss honestly whether a backup heat source makes sense for the coldest days.

What to have written into the quote

Two heat pump quotes can look similar and cover different work. Before comparing figures, ask for each of the following in writing — what a given project includes varies, and is confirmed after the on-site assessment rather than promised in advance.

• Exact make, model and capacity of the indoor and outdoor units, with the rated cold-weather performance
• Electrical work included: new circuit, panel capacity, any upgrade required
• Removal and disposal of old equipment and refrigerant, where applicable
• Commissioning: airflow and pressure readings, thermostat setup, walkthrough at handover
• Warranty terms, separating the manufacturer's parts warranty from the installer's labour warranty, with the duration of each
• The gross price before any rebate, with a clear note that financial help depends on the equipment chosen and on your own eligibility