Heat pumps in Montreal: Buying and installation guide 2026
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Do you live in Montreal or the greater metropolitan area and are thinking about installing a heat pump? You've come to the right place. This guide covers everything Montrealers need to know: from the local climate and installation options to available subsidies.
Why Montreal is ideal for heat pumps
Contrary to what one might think, Montreal's climate is perfectly suited to modern heat pumps:
Montreal's climate in numbers
- Average January temperature: -10°C (very comfortable for a heat pump)
- Days below -20°C: Approximately 10-15 per winter
- Days below -25°C: Approximately 3-5 per winter
- Hot summers: Average July temperature of 26°C, with peaks of 35°C+
Conclusion: 95% of the time, a heat pump operates at high efficiency in Montreal. The few days of extreme cold are easily managed with supplemental heating.
The advantage of the island of Montreal
The urban heat island effect means that Montreal is generally 2-3°C warmer than the surrounding suburbs in winter. This is an advantage for the efficiency of your heat pump.
Installation options in Montreal
Option 1: DIY Installation
DIY installation is popular in Montreal for several reasons:
- Savings: $1,500 to $3,000 savings on installation
- Availability: No need to wait weeks for an appointment
- Flexibility: Install when it suits you
Delivery to Montreal: Kanartic heat pumps are shipped from St-Eustache. Free delivery within the greater Montreal area, usually in 2-3 business days.
Option 2: Professional Installation
If you prefer to use a professional:
- Typical cost in Montreal: $1,500 to $2,500 for a single unit
- Advantage: Eligibility for Rénoclimat subsidies
- Waiting time: Often 2-4 weeks during peak season
Specific considerations for Montreal
Condos and apartments
Many Montrealers live in condos. Here's what you need to know:
- Union approval: Generally required for the outdoor unit
- Location of the outdoor unit: Balcony, flat roof, or exterior wall as per regulations
- Noise: Check the noise regulations (Kanartic vehicles are at 40 dB, very quiet)
- Electricity: Check that your panel can handle the load
Tip: Submit the unit specifications to your building management company before purchasing. Most approve modern heat pumps without issue.
Townhouses
- The outdoor unit usually goes in the backyard
- Check the minimum distances from neighbors
- Consider the aesthetics (available unit cover)
Triplex and multiplex
Owners of Montreal triplexes can:
- Install one unit per dwelling (independent systems)
- Or a multi-zone system for several dwellings
- Recover the costs through energy savings or rent increases
Neighborhoods and their distinctive features
Plateau-Mont-Royal, Rosemont, Villeray
- Many triplexes and duplexes with backyards
- Typical installation: outdoor unit in the yard
- Check the zoning regulations for the location.
Côte-des-Neiges, NDG, Westmount
- A mix of single-family homes and condos
- Some sectors have strict aesthetic rules
- Unit covers may be required.
Verdun, LaSalle, Lachine
- Proximity to the river = higher humidity
- Defrosting may be more frequent in winter
- Good air conditioning performance in summer
Anjou, St-Léonard, Montréal-Nord
- Many bungalows with land
- Easy installation with space for the outdoor unit
- Ideal for DIY
Laval, Longueuil, South Shore, North Shore
- Primarily single-family homes
- Space is usually sufficient
- Temperatures slightly cooler than in the city centre
Typical costs in Montreal
| Property type | Suggested capacity | DIY cost | Cost including professional installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condo 600-800 sq ft | 9,000 - 12,000 BTU | $2,250 - $2,450 | $3,750 - $4,500 |
| Apartment/dwelling 900 sq ft | 12,000 - 18,000 BTU | $2,450 - $3,100 | $4,000 - $5,000 |
| House 1,200 sq ft | 18,000 - 24,000 BTU | $3,100 - $3,600 | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Large house 1,500+ sq ft | Multi-zone | $3,500 - $5,000 | $6,000 - $9,000 |
Subsidies available for Montrealers
Renoclimat Program (provincial)
- Basic grant: $400 to $1,200 depending on the model
- Installation by an RBQ-certified contractor is required.
- Energy assessment before/after required
Federal Greener Homes Program
- Up to $5,000 for a heat pump
- Can be combined with Rénoclimat in certain cases
Montreal Municipal Program
- Check with your borough for current programs.
- Some boroughs offer additional assistance.
Reminder: DIY installations are generally not eligible for subsidies. However, the savings on the installation often offset the lost subsidy.
Potential savings for a Montreal household
Based on Hydro-Québec rates and Montreal's climate:
| Current situation | Heating cost/year | With heat pump | Annual savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 700 sq ft condo (baseboards) | $1,200 | $500 | $700 |
| Apartment 900 sq ft (baseboards) | $1,600 | $650 | $950 |
| House 1,400 sq ft (baseboards) | $2,400 | $1,000 | $1,400 |
DIY return on investment: 2-3 years on average for Montrealers.
Montreal FAQ
Do I need a permit to install a heat pump in Montreal?
Generally, no, not for a residential wall-mounted heat pump. However, check your borough's regulations, especially regarding the location of the outdoor unit.
My condo has a glass-enclosed balcony, can I put the outdoor unit there?
Not recommended. The outdoor unit needs fresh air to operate. An enclosed balcony would cause overheating. Explore other options with your building management.
Aren't Montreal winters too cold for a heat pump?
No! Kanartic heat pumps operate down to -30°C. In Montreal, it rarely gets below -25°C. Your heat pump will work efficiently all winter long.
How long does delivery to Montreal take?
Delivery from our St-Eustache warehouse: usually 2-3 business days. Free delivery within the greater metropolitan area.
Ready to take action?
More and more Montrealers are choosing heat pumps to reduce their electricity bills and enjoy air conditioning in the summer. With the DIY option, it's more accessible than ever.
