Sizing, running-cost comparisons, oil conversions, hybrid systems, ducted versus ductless, financing, permits and licensed trades, with the arithmetic shown.
This section turns a heating decision into numbers you can check. It covers how a contractor should size a heat pump from a heat loss calculation, a full heat pump versus gas furnace running-cost comparison, an oil-to-heat-pump conversion worked example, hybrid (dual-fuel) systems, the choice between ducted and ductless heat pumps, financing options and the permits and licensed technicians each province requires.
The pillar guide, how to compare HVAC quotes, pulls these together into one decision process. Every example uses clearly illustrative prices and energy rates with the arithmetic written out, so you can replace them with the figures from your own quotes and utility bills. The calculators on the tools page do the same arithmetic for you.
Worked Quotes and Choosing a System
A step-by-step method to compare heat pump, furnace and boiler quotes in Canada on the same scope, with a worked example, red flags and the documents to request.
Worked Quotes and Choosing a System
How to choose between a central ducted heat pump and ductless mini-split heads in Canada, with an illustrative cost comparison for a baseboard home and layout questions to ask.
Worked Quotes and Choosing a System
How contractors should size a heat pump or furnace for a Canadian home using a CSA F280 heat loss calculation, plus a worked check using your gas or oil consumption.
Worked Quotes and Choosing a System
A worked running-cost comparison of heat pumps, gas, oil, propane and electric heat in Canada, with energy conversions, a break-even electricity price and fixed charges.
Worked Quotes and Choosing a System
Compare contractor payment plans, personal loans, lines of credit, municipal retrofit loans and mortgage options for HVAC in Canada, with worked costs and the traps to read for.
Worked Quotes and Choosing a System
Which licences gas fitters, refrigeration technicians and electricians need for furnace and heat pump work in Ontario, Quebec, BC, Alberta and elsewhere, and which permits apply.
Worked Quotes and Choosing a System
How hybrid heat pump and furnace systems work in Canada, what they cost to add, how to pick the switchover temperature with your own rates, and when they make sense.
Worked Quotes and Choosing a System
A full illustrative oil-to-heat-pump conversion in Canada, from fuel use and quotes to tank removal, HST, payback and what changed after the OHPA program closed.
