What are the benefits of a heat pump?

The heat pump has become the most popular heating and cooling system in Quebec and across Canada. Here are its main benefits, what to know before buying, and the answer to a common question: "thermopompe" or "pompe à chaleur", what is the difference?

1. Big energy savings

A heat pump does not create heat by burning fuel or heating an element: it moves heat from the outdoor air to the inside. For every kilowatt-hour of electricity it uses, it can deliver two to four kilowatt-hours of heat depending on the outdoor temperature. Compared with electric baseboards, the heating bill drops significantly. See our heat pump vs electric baseboard comparison.

2. Heating and cooling in one unit

The same unit heats in winter, cools in summer and dehumidifies. You replace a window air conditioner and part of your heating with a single appliance you use twelve months a year.

3. Efficient even in extreme cold

Modern cold-climate wall heat pumps heat well below freezing. Kanartic models heat down to −30 °C and below. Read: heat pump at −30 °C, myth or reality?

4. Comfort and quiet

Thanks to the inverter compressor, the heat pump modulates its output instead of switching on and off: the temperature stays steady, without cold drafts. Kanartic indoor units are very quiet (22 dB).

5. Better air quality

The indoor unit's filters trap dust and pollen, and dehumidification mode limits mould and dust mites. See how to lower humidity with a heat pump.

6. No ducts, simple installation

A wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split) needs no ductwork: a hole of a few inches in the wall for the line set is enough. Kanartic DIY models come pre-charged with refrigerant, with vacuum-sealed lines and quick connectors, and can be installed by a handy homeowner.

7. Little maintenance and a long life

Cleaning the filters regularly and keeping the outdoor unit clear is usually all it takes (see our maintenance guide). Kanartic offers a 10-year compressor and 5-year parts warranty; in Quebec, the legal warranty of quality also applies.

8. Cleaner energy and rebates

In Quebec, electricity is renewable: heating with a heat pump lowers your carbon footprint compared with oil, propane or gas. Financial assistance exists for eligible models, including DIY when you choose the Kanartic commissioning service (offered in Quebec only). See the Rebates page.

Limitations to know

• The purchase price is higher than a baseboard heater; it pays back through energy savings.
• A wall unit mainly heats the room where it is installed: for several closed rooms, plan a multi-zone system.
• Capacity must be chosen correctly: use the BTU calculator.

Frequently asked questions

"Thermopompe" or "pompe à chaleur": what is the difference?

None: it is the same appliance. In Quebec French people say "thermopompe"; in France and in technical documents, "pompe à chaleur". In English, a wall heat pump, a mini-split and a ductless air-source heat pump all describe the same type of system.

Is a heat pump worth it?

In most electrically heated homes, yes: heating savings, built-in cooling and rebates let you recover the investment within a few years.

Can I keep my baseboard heaters?

Yes. Many homeowners keep their baseboards as backup in bedrooms or for the coldest days.

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