How are BTUs at -8°C measured to calculate the grant amount?

A key parameter to maximize your LogisVert grant

When it comes to efficient heat pumps or high-efficiency wall-mounted heat pumps , Hydro-Québec's LogisVert program offers subsidies that vary directly based on a very specific piece of data: the number of BTUs per hour at -8°C . This technical measurement, often unknown to the general public, is nevertheless central to calculating the exact amount of the subsidy to which a homeowner is entitled. At AirGreen, we often receive questions on this point, and in this article, we lift the veil on the measurement process and its importance.

Why -8°C? A realistic reference temperature for Quebec

The choice of -8°C as the reference temperature is not arbitrary. It reflects a temperature representative of the Quebec winter, particularly in cities like Montreal, Laval, Longueuil , as well as on the North Shore and the South Shore . Rather than using idealized data at 0°C or in the laboratory, Hydro-Québec uses a more rigorous outdoor temperature to better reflect the actual operating conditions of heat pumps in our regions.

What is a BTU/h at -8°C?

A BTU/h (British Thermal Unit per hour) represents the heating capacity of a heat pump. For example, a machine with a capacity of 20,000 BTU/h at -8°C can provide this amount of heat energy, even when it's cold outside. This figure is crucial because it's the exact unit used to calculate the LogisVert grant amount .

The formula is simple: $120 per 1,000 BTU/h at -8 °C if the heat pump is ENERGY STAR cold-climate certified, and $50 if it has standard ENERGY STAR certification.

Where does the BTU data at -8°C come from?

The LogisVert program leaves nothing to chance. It requires that the heat pump installed be included in the list of eligible heat pumps published by Hydro-Québec. This list includes, for each model:

• The AHRI (Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute) number

• BTU/h delivered at -8°C

• The exact model of the outdoor unit and indoor units

• The amount of financial assistance

Please note: Only the value indicated on this official list is considered valid for calculating the subsidy. Therefore, it is not a theoretical value provided by the manufacturer, but rather certified data.

Concrete example: Installation by AirGreen in Longueuil

Let's take a real-life example: installing a Gree Sapphire 18,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump in Longueuil. According to Hydro-Québec's list, this model provides 12,174 BTU/h at -8°C .

LogisVert grant calculation (rate then in effect):
12,174 ÷ 1,000 = 12.17
12.17 × $140 = $1,704
At the current $120 rate (ENERGY STAR cold-climate model): 12.17 × $120 = $1,461

This Longueuil client received the amount then provided for the measure that combined the heat pump with air sealing work (doors, windows, access hatches, range hood outlets, etc.). Today, air sealing is no longer required for the heat pump.

How is performance measured at -8°C?

This performance is determined using a standardized AHRI 210/240 methodology . In the laboratory, the heat pump is installed under conditions simulating an outdoor temperature of -8°C and a stable indoor temperature. The amount of heat supplied by the unit is then measured within a given time period.

It is this rigorous process that establishes the actual heating capacity in Quebec winter conditions. The results are then recorded by the manufacturer and validated by an independent organization.

What you must provide to Hydro-Québec

To receive the BTU-based grant at -8°C, here is what you must provide in your LogisVert application:

• Detailed invoice for the purchase and installation of the heat pump (including the RBQ number, the AHRI number, the supplier's GST/QST numbers, etc.)

• Photo of the nameplate on the outdoor unit

• Proof of ownership (municipal tax or bill of sale)

• Invoice for the other combined measures, if applicable (e.g. roof insulation and air sealing)

• All must be submitted within 9 months of the installation date

AirGreen takes care of providing you with all these elements in accordance with the rules of the art , to facilitate your request and avoid any rejection or delay.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Installing a heat pump that is not on the LogisVert list

• Provide BTU value at 0°C or -15°C, not -8°C

• Choosing a model that is not “cold climate” certified while expecting $120 per 1,000 BTU/h (the rate is then $50)

• Exceeding the 9-month deadline for submitting the application

• Providing an invoice without a clear AHRI number

At AirGreen, we ensure that every HVAC installation meets all of these criteria so that our customers receive the maximum amount to which they are entitled.

AirGreen: your expert partner to maximize your subsidies

With hundreds of installations completed in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore , we have acquired in-depth expertise in the installation of Fujitsu, Gree, Sharp, Bosch, Goodman wall-mounted heat pumps , and more. We systematically check:

• Heat pump eligibility under the LogisVert program

• Compliance with technical requirements (AHRI, BTU at -8°C)

• Related work to be carried out to make the project 100% compliant

Our team also takes care of the complete preparation of your LogisVert file , to maximize your chances of rapid and error-free approval.

In summary: BTU at -8°C = key to your LogisVert grant

The BTU rating at -8°C is one of the most important factors in receiving the maximum grant . Make sure you choose a qualifying heat pump, use an accredited company like AirGreen, and keep all necessary documentation.

At AirGreen , we support you from A to Z to ensure your HVAC system is fully compliant with the LogisVert program requirements. Contact us for a free quote and find out how much you could save with your new heat pump.