If you want a more comfortable home and lower energy bills, a heat pump could help you do both. Best of all, eligible households may be able to receive a cold climate air-source heat pump at no cost through Save on Energy’s Energy Affordability Program.
But what exactly is a heat pump? And do they really work in Canadian winters? In this post, we’re answering some of the most frequently asked questions we get about heat pumps.
What is a cold climate air-source heat pump?
A cold climate air-source heat pump is an all-in-one heating and cooling system. Rather than generating heat, it moves heat from one place to another, making it extremely efficient. In the winter, it transfers heat from the outside air into your home. In the summer, it transfers heat (and humidity) from the inside air to outside your home.
Why should you get a heat pump?
- More comfortable home, year-round. Heat pumps provide consistent heating in the winter and reliable cooling in the summer. They also dehumidify and filter dust and allergens from the air, so you have better indoor air quality.
- Lower energy use and potentially lower bills. Because heat pumps move heat instead of generating it, they use much less energy than many conventional systems. Depending on your current system, that could mean big savings.
- It could be free! There’s no cost at any stage for eligible participants of the Energy Affordability Program. Everything is covered, from the initial in-home assessment to the installation!
How much will I save on my energy bills?
Switching from an electric furnace or electric baseboard heating to a cold climate air source heat pump could save you up to 50% on the heating part of your electricity bills. Switching from an oil furnace to a cold climate heat pump could save you up to 50% on your home heating costs. If you’re replacing an older, less efficient air conditioner, then your air conditioning costs will also be lower.
Your actual savings will vary depending on your home, your existing heating system, and your energy use habits.
Do heat pumps really work in Canadian winters?
Yes! Even when temperatures drop below freezing, there’s still warmth in the air that the heat pump can transfer to your home. In fact, today’s cold climate air-source heat pumps are designed to perform efficiently in temperatures as low as -25°C.
Am I eligible?
If you live in Eastern Ontario, EnviroCentre can help you determine your eligibility, complete your application, and navigate every step of the process. Apply once and we’ll check all available programs for you. EnviroCentre is the only authorized delivery agent of these programs in Eastern Ontario and supports all households with postal codes starting with “K.”
A more comfortable, energy-efficient home could be closer than you think. Apply today to find out whether you qualify for a free cold climate heat pump or other energy-saving upgrades.
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