How does a central heat pump work?
A central heat pump extracts heat from outdoor air to heat (in winter) or cool (in summer) your home. It distributes conditioned air through an existing duct network — hence the name "central." Modern heat pumps have a COP of 2.5 to 4, meaning they produce 2.5 to 4 kWh of heat per kWh of electricity consumed.
Central vs. wall-mounted heat pump: which to choose?
If your home already has a forced-air duct system, a central heat pump is ideal. It provides uniform heating and cooling throughout the house.
Without ducts, the wall-mounted heat pump (mini-split) is more economical to install and perfectly suited to Quebec homes without ductwork.
Hydro-Quebec 2026 rebates
Hydro-Quebec offers up to $2,500 in rebates for installing a high-efficiency heat pump (COP ≥ 2.5 at -15°C). The Renoclimat program adds up to $2,500 more based on the unit's efficiency level. Combining both programs, some homeowners receive up to $5,000 in rebates.
Heating Price Table — Quebec
Indicative price ranges for the Montreal area. Rates may vary by city, complexity and contractor.
| Service | Min | Max |
|---|---|---|
| Central heat pump 2 tons (with installation) | $8,000 | $12,000 |
| Central heat pump 3 tons (with installation) | $10,000 | $15,000 |
| Wall-mounted heat pump 9,000 BTU (1 head) | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| Multi-zone wall-mounted (2-3 heads) | $5,000 | $9,000 |
| Annual heat pump maintenance | $150 | $300 |
Indicative ranges compiled by UrgencePlomberieQC.com, July 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get a free Heating & Boiler quote
RBQ-certified professionals available across all Quebec cities. Response in under 30 minutes.
Get a free quote