What is the concrete difference between an “efficient” and a “high-efficiency” heat pump?

Understanding the real differences between an “efficient” heat pump and a “high-efficiency” heat pump within the framework of the LogisVert program

In an increasingly technical HVAC market governed by incentive programs like Hydro-Québec's LogisVert , it is essential to understand what the terms efficient heat pump and high-efficiency heat pump mean. These distinctions influence not only energy performance, but also the amount of financial assistance offered under the program. At AirGreen , we support customers in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , the North Shore and the South Shore every day in choosing optimal HVAC solutions, adapted to their homes and the available subsidies.

What is a so-called “efficient” heat pump?

In the current program, an “efficient” heat pump means an ENERGY STAR certified unit. It can be a two-component central air-to-air system (indoor and outdoor unit) or a wall-mounted mini-split system with one or more heads, designed for heating and cooling a dwelling.

Technical eligibility criteria

• New and purchased in Quebec

• ENERGY STAR certified (Hydro-Québec’s list of eligible heat pumps)

• Installation carried out by a contractor holding an RBQ license and registered with the Quebec Enterprise Registrar

• Can be installed in:

  • Single-family, semi-detached or row houses

  • Condominiums

  • Multiplex

  • Residential buildings with 19 units or fewer

  • Apartments with individual meter in a building of 20 or more units

Applicable grant

The grant amount for an ENERGY STAR heat pump is $50 per 1,000 BTU/h at -8 °C. For example, a heat pump that delivers 18,000 BTU/h at -8 °C qualifies for $900.

Real AirGreen example in Sainte-Julie (South Shore) : Installation of a Gree Extreme 24,000 BTU heat pump, eligible for $1,860 (at the rate then in effect) in LogisVert assistance. Challenges encountered: load-bearing wall requiring a reinforced base plate, raising the compressor base due to the natural drainage of the land. Result: optimized comfort and maximum energy efficiency.

What is a “high efficiency” heat pump?

A high-efficiency heat pump today means an ENERGY STAR cold-climate certified model, which keeps good heating capacity in extreme cold. Air sealing is no longer mandatory to get the heat pump grant.

Mandatory conditions

• The unit must be ENERGY STAR cold-climate certified

• Complete air sealing is still recommended; it is subsidized with roof insulation ($1,500) and covers in particular:

  • Exterior doors

  • Windows

  • Attic hatches

  • Range hoods

  • Bathroom fans

  • Electrical outlets

  • Chimneys

• Everything must be carried out by certified contractors ( RBQ license , REQ registration)

More generous subsidy

The amount granted is calculated at $120 per 1,000 BTU/h at -8 °C. A unit that delivers 18,000 BTU/h at -8 °C, for example, qualifies for $2,160.

AirGreen Installation in Oka (North Shore) : Sharp ZU1 15,000 BTU heat pump combined with a total caulking project. Grant obtained: $2,172 . Result: a 36% gain in airtightness on the initial pressurization test. The customer felt a significant improvement in winter comfort from the first days.

Detailed comparison: efficient vs. high efficiency

Why choose a high-efficiency heat pump?

Although the initial investment is often higher, the payback can be faster thanks to:

• Greater energy savings in extreme cold

• Improving thermal comfort , both winter and summer

• Extended unit durability , less stress due to overall system efficiency

When is an efficient heat pump enough?

A so-called “efficient” heat pump remains an excellent solution when:

• The budget is limited

• The house is already well insulated

• The customer still wants to benefit from an attractive subsidy

• Replacement is urgent (failure of an old system)

AirGreen Project in Laval : Replacement of an old central system with a Fujitsu KZAH 18,000 BTU , installation without additional work, customer eligible for $1,704 in assistance.

The impact of LogisVert subsidies: a concrete lever for Quebec owners

Thanks to Hydro-Québec's LogisVert program, homeowners can significantly reduce the cost of transitioning to more environmentally friendly HVAC equipment. In addition:

• The program allows grant bonuses (5%) if several measures are combined in the same application.

• The filing deadline is 9 months maximum after installation

• The assistance cannot exceed 100% of the pre-tax purchase and installation cost

Our practical advice to maximize your grant

1. Choose an eligible unit (we will guide you according to the official LogisVert list).

2. Check for the “cold climate” designation if you are aiming for the $120 rate.

3. Use an accredited contractor , like AirGreen, to ensure compliance.

4. Submit your request quickly on the portal www.logisvert.ca .

5. Keep all invoices with the required information: RBQ number, BTU, AHRI number, etc.

AirGreen expertise: more than just an installation, complete support

Every project we complete in Montreal , Laval , Longueuil , the North Shore , and the South Shore demonstrates our commitment to performance, compliance, and customer satisfaction. Our technical experts analyze each building, suggest the most advantageous eligible options, and manage all administrative steps for you.