Understanding the Cost Differences Between Natural Gas and Heat Pumps: An Essential Analysis for Homeowners Across Greater Montréal
In a context where energy prices fluctuate, where government subsidies are evolving, and where environmental expectations are rising, choosing between a natural gas heating system and a heat pump has become a central issue for residential homeowners in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore. At AirGreen, we receive daily questions on this topic: “Which option is more cost-effective for heating my home in 2025?” Here is our detailed, fact-based response, drawn from real installations, performance calculations, and our on-the-ground expertise.
Natural Gas: Price Stability or Long-Term Trap?
A reasonable upfront cost, but...
Installing a natural gas boiler often appears more affordable in terms of initial purchase price. Many residential buildings in Montréal and Laval are already connected to the natural gas network, which lowers connection fees. However, that upfront saving can be misleading.
The price of gas in 2025
In 2025, natural gas rates in Québec continue to gradually increase, driven by international energy market pressures and Québec’s environmental policies. Additional carbon compensation fees are expected in the medium term, making this energy source less competitive over time.
Maintenance and lifespan
A gas system requires strict annual maintenance (burner cleaning, exhaust duct checks, carbon monoxide monitoring). Additionally, its lifespan rarely exceeds 15 to 20 years, and breakdown risks increase with age.
Heat Pumps: The Most Economical and Eco-Friendly Option for 2025
A profitable investment, especially with subsidies
The cost of a wall-mounted or central heat pump may seem higher initially. However, thanks to financial assistance programs like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert, households can benefit from subsidies ranging from $1,704 to $5,000, depending on the power and type of heat pump selected. At AirGreen, we guide each of our clients in maximizing these incentives.
Unbeatable energy efficiency
Modern heat pumps like the FUJITSU KZAH R-32, Bosch BOVA R-454B, or even the GOODMAN central R-32 models reach energy efficiency ratings up to 350%, meaning they produce 3.5 times more energy than they consume. In comparison, natural gas offers efficiency between 90% and 95%.
In a recent installation in Longueuil, we replaced an old gas boiler with a central Bosch BOVA 3-ton heat pump. The result: a 42% reduction in the annual heating bill and improved comfort all year long.
A four-season solution
Heat pumps provide heating in winter (even at -30°C with high-performance models) and cooling in summer, eliminating the need for a separate air conditioner. This dual function makes them a versatile, convenient, and cost-effective choice.
Comparative Study: Heat Pump vs Natural Gas (Typical Laval Case)
| Criteria | Natural Gas | Heat Pump (FUJITSU KZAH R-32) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Installation Cost | $6,500 | $9,200 (before subsidy) |
| Available Subsidy | None | $1,704 to $5,000 |
| Annual Heating Cost | $1,900 | $850 |
| Estimated Lifespan | 15 to 20 years | 20 to 25 years |
| Energy Efficiency (SCOP) | 0.9 to 0.95 | 3.5 to 4.1 |
| Annual Maintenance | Mandatory | Light (filter cleaning, etc.) |
| GHG Emissions | High | Near zero |
Testimonials from Homeowners Who Made the Switch
“By replacing our gas system in Beaconsfield with an 18,000 BTU Gree Extreme wall-mounted heat pump, our Hydro-Québec bill dropped drastically. And with the $1,704 subsidy, we paid off the installation in less than 5 years.” — The Thibault Family, South Shore
“My rental building in Laval was converted to fully electric with Sharp ZU1 heat pumps in each unit. Not only are tenants more comfortable, but my maintenance costs plummeted.” — Mr. Kabov, Property Owner
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Heating System
Focusing only on upfront costs
A heating system is a long-term investment. Focusing only on the purchase price could cost you thousands of dollars over 15 to 20 years.
Forgetting to check for subsidy eligibility
At AirGreen, we too often see homeowners missing out on provincial and federal subsidies simply due to lack of guidance. We handle the entire administrative process.
Choosing an improperly sized heat pump
An undersized heat pump consumes more energy and wears out its compressor prematurely. An oversized one costs unnecessarily more. Our experts perform precise heat load calculations for every project.
Why Trust AirGreen?
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Certified expertise in installing central and wall-mounted heat pumps across all types of properties (single-family homes, duplexes, condos, rental buildings).
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Fast, professional service in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore and South Shore.
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Personalized support for each client: from quote to subsidy approval.
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We only use top-quality brands like Fujitsu, Gree, Bosch, Sharp, Goodman.
Conclusion: What Should You Choose in 2025?
In 2025, the answer is clear: the heat pump is the most economical, eco-friendly, and versatile option for heating a home in Québec. Despite a higher upfront cost, energy savings, available subsidies, and durability clearly tip the scale in its favor.
At AirGreen, we believe that the energy transition depends on intelligent, high-performance solutions tailored to Québec’s harsh winters. Contact us for a free, personalized evaluation of your conversion or installation project.