Investing in a central heat pump is a smart choice for anyone looking to improve their home’s comfort while achieving significant energy savings. However, this type of system isn’t universally compatible with every house. At AirGreen, we’ve helped hundreds of clients in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North Shore and South Shore, through the process of installing HVAC systems tailored to their needs and their home's structure. Here are the 5 essential criteria to evaluate if your home is ready for a central heat pump.
Space for Ductwork: A Decisive Factor
The first criterion we evaluate during a site visit is the presence and condition of the ductwork. A central heat pump operates using a distribution system that moves air through ducts installed throughout the home.
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If your home already has ductwork—often from an old forced-air system like a furnace—the installation is more straightforward.
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If there’s no existing ductwork, a full installation will be necessary, which can be more costly and may require significant modifications.
We recently completed a project in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville where the home, though older, had an unused duct system. We were able to reuse much of the existing setup, modernizing it to reduce installation costs while ensuring optimal efficiency.
Home Insulation: Key to Performance
Proper insulation is critical for maximizing the performance of a central heat pump. This type of system is designed to provide consistent, balanced heating and cooling throughout the entire home.
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If your home’s thermal envelope is weak (poorly insulated walls, windows, or attic), the heat pump will have to work harder, decreasing its energy efficiency.
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A thermal assessment can be carried out before installation, and improvement work may be recommended.
At a job in Laval, a client wanted to replace her old oil heating system. Upon inspection, we found that her attic insulation was insufficient. After the corrective work, we installed a Bosch BOVA 36,000 BTU central heat pump, which allowed her to reduce her annual heating bill by 45%.
Home Size and Layout
Each model of central heat pump is designed to cover a specific living area. An analysis of the home's size and room layout is therefore essential.
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For a single-storey home of 1,200 sq. ft., a 24,000 to 36,000 BTU system may be sufficient.
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For a two-storey home with a finished basement, precise load calculations are needed to select the right unit.
At AirGreen, we always conduct a detailed thermal load analysis using specialized software, taking into account the unique characteristics of each home. This precise sizing prevents common mistakes like over- or under-sizing the unit.
Current Heating System and Cooling Needs
Another essential question: is your current system electric, gas, or oil? This greatly affects compatibility and the necessary work.
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If you already use a forced-air system, converting to a central heat pump is relatively simple.
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If you're using electric baseboards or a hydronic system, a deeper evaluation is required, and sometimes a multi-zone or wall-mounted mini split system may be more suitable.
We helped a family in Repentigny, on the North Shore, transition from gas heating to a Goodman R-32 18,000 BTU central heat pump, while maintaining full compatibility with their existing duct system. This upgrade allowed them to qualify for over $5,000 in government grants thanks to the energy transition.
Eligibility for Grants and Government Incentives
One of the biggest advantages of installing a central heat pump in Quebec is the availability of financial aid programs such as:
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Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert Program
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Chauffez Vert subsidy
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Municipal or provincial incentives, depending on your location
However, not all homes and not all heat pump models qualify for these grants. For example, the FUJITSU KZAH R-32, very popular in Longueuil, offers excellent energy performance (SEER 18, HSPF 10), making it eligible for several incentives.
We guide our clients step-by-step to build their grant application, ensure project eligibility, and retrieve all applicable rebates after installation.
Other Important Technical Considerations
Noise Levels
Newer models like the Bosch BIVA IDS Premium R-454b are ultra-quiet, with sound levels as low as 56 dB. This makes them ideal for densely populated urban areas like Plateau-Mont-Royal or Ville Saint-Laurent.
Maintenance and Accessibility
The basement or mechanical space layout must allow for easy access for regular maintenance of the central heat pump. Neglected maintenance can shorten the system's lifespan by up to 25%.
Winter Reliability
Modern central heat pumps like the Gree Versati IV are designed to operate in temperatures as low as -30°C, which is critical for our climate in Montreal and the surrounding areas. This low-temperature heating capacity is a requirement for many grant programs.
AirGreen’s Expertise at Your Service
At AirGreen, we don’t just install a machine. We’re with you before, during, and after the process: assessment, sizing, choosing the right unit, professional installation, after-sales service, and building your grant applications.
Our certified installers serve Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore, with constant attention to quality, transparency, and efficiency. Thanks to our real-world experience and knowledge of local regulations, we guarantee an installation that meets the highest HVAC industry standards in Quebec.