Heat pumps have become the centrepiece of efficient home heating because they move heat rather than burning fuel to make it, and one unit both heats and cools. They're a strong fit for much of BC's climate.
How they work
A heat pump moves heat from outside to inside in winter and reverses in summer to cool. Because it moves heat rather than generating it, it can deliver several units of heat per unit of electricity, far more efficient than electric resistance heat.
Cold-climate performance
Modern cold-climate heat pumps work well into freezing temperatures, though efficiency drops as it gets very cold, and many systems pair with a backup (electric or gas) for the coldest snaps. In milder coastal BC, a heat pump can handle nearly all heating.
Costs and rebates
Heat pumps cost more upfront than a furnace, but lower operating costs and generous federal and provincial rebates narrow the gap. They're especially economical replacing electric baseboard, oil, or propane heat.