Moving Toward a More Energy-Efficient Era: The Gradual End of Electric Baseboard Heating in Montréal
In Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, and across the South Shore and North Shore, the residential construction sector is undergoing a major transformation: electric baseboard heaters are increasingly disappearing from the plans of new homes. This shift is not a fleeting trend or isolated decision—it reflects a broader energy policy, driven by new building standards, government incentives, and growing concerns about energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
Understanding Electric Baseboards: An Outdated Heating System
Although affordable to purchase, electric baseboard heaters have long been installed for their simplicity. Mounted at the base of walls, they use electric resistance to heat air, which then rises naturally. However, this system has many limitations that no longer meet modern expectations:
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Lower energy efficiency compared to wall-mounted or central heat pumps.
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No integrated air conditioning.
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Uneven heat distribution throughout rooms.
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High electricity consumption, especially during winter.
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Not eligible for energy efficiency grants like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program.
Stricter Building Codes for New Construction
Starting in 2024, several real estate developers—especially in Montréal and the South Shore’s growing neighborhoods—have begun banning electric baseboard heaters from their technical specifications. Why? Because this type of equipment prevents new buildings from meeting the energy performance targets set by Québec’s Building Code.
In some cases, installing baseboards makes it impossible to qualify for certifications like LEED or Novoclimat, which are crucial for projects aiming at high property values or sustainability-minded buyers.
Heat Pumps: The Unbeatable Technological Alternative
To meet these demands, wall-mounted or central heat pumps have become the standard in most new homes. At AirGreen, we’ve seen a sharp rise in requests for high-efficiency heat pump installations, including:
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Wall-mounted heat pumps from Gree, Fujitsu, or Midea, ideal for condos or single-family homes.
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Central systems from Lennox or Bosch, perfect for multi-level properties or larger homes.
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Multi-zone systems for precise temperature control in every room.
Thanks to eco-friendly refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B, paired with Inverter compressors, these systems consume 30% to 40% less energy than electric baseboards.
Case Study: A Residential Project in Boucherville
In a new development of 12 semi-detached homes in Boucherville, our team was recently called in to propose an alternative to the electric baseboards initially planned. After a detailed heat load analysis, we installed Midea EVOX G3 2.5 Ton central heat pumps in each unit.
Technical challenges we addressed:
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Redesigning ductwork for optimal hot and cold air distribution.
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Integrating smart thermostats in every living zone.
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Optimizing the thermal envelope of each home to reduce heating load.
The result? The project received Novoclimat certification, and buyers were able to benefit from grants of up to $6,000 per home through the LogisVert program.
Tangible Benefits for Homeowners
By replacing baseboards with heat pumps, homeowners enjoy many short- and long-term advantages:
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Energy savings: Up to 40% off annual electricity bills.
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Year-round comfort: Heating in winter, cooling in summer.
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Improved air quality with integrated filtration.
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Increased property value: Homes with modern HVAC systems sell faster and at higher prices.
Government Incentives Accelerate the Transition
The Hydro-Québec LogisVert program, available across the province, offers significant grants for heat pump installations, whether wall-mounted or central. In Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, and throughout the North and South Shores, AirGreen supports clients at every step:
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Selecting a qualifying model (for instance, the Gree Extreme 18,000 BTU, often eligible for a $1,704 grant).
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Completing the necessary paperwork.
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Verifying technical eligibility.
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Performing professional installation according to the manufacturer’s standards.
Why Are Developers Contacting Us Earlier in the Process?
By working directly with architects, engineers, and developers at the design stage, we help:
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Reduce overall construction costs through better planning.
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Ensure projects meet strict energy efficiency requirements.
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Avoid delays due to rejected financing or failed certifications.
Tips for Homeowners Renovating Existing Properties
Even for older homes currently heated with baseboards, switching to a heat pump is both feasible and highly recommended:
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Wall-mounted heat pumps: Quick, minimally invasive installation.
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Central heat pumps: Possible with ductwork installation or by replacing electric furnaces.
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Grants often remain available for renovations that meet eligibility criteria.
We recently carried out such a conversion in a century-old home in Laval. The results: enhanced comfort, $1,200/year in energy savings, and increased property value.
Conclusion: A New Era for Residential Heating in Québec
Electric baseboard heaters no longer have a place in new homes across Montréal and surrounding areas. Too energy-intensive, underperforming, and excluded from government incentives, they’re being replaced by smart, reversible, energy-efficient systems.
At AirGreen, we believe comfort shouldn’t come at the expense of the environment or your finances. Whether you’re a developer, builder, or residential homeowner, we help you make the right HVAC choice, with reliable, efficient, and certified solutions.
Contact us today for a free estimate and discover how we can transform your home’s heating system to meet tomorrow’s standards—starting today.