Buying a new heat pump in 2025 is one of the best investments Ottawa homeowners can make for year-round comfort and energy savings. Heat pumps provide efficient heating and cooling in our extreme climate, and new cold-climate models perform even when temperatures plummet. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know – from how heat pumps work in Ottawa’s winters to comparing the top five cold-climate heat pump models available from AirZone HVAC Services.
Whether you live in Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans, or anywhere across the Ottawa region, this heat pump buyer’s guide will help you make an informed decision. We’ll also highlight current rebates, internal maintenance plans, and answer frequently asked questions to position AirZone HVAC Services as your trusted local expert.
What Is a Heat Pump?
Simply put, a heat pump is an HVAC system that can both heat and cool your home by transferring heat. In summer, it works like a regular air conditioner, moving heat from inside your house to the outdoors to keep you cool. In winter, the process reverses – even in cold air there is heat energy, and a heat pump extracts heat from outside air and pumps it indoors. This magic is possible through refrigerant cycles and a compressor, without burning fuel.
Essentially, a heat pump is an all-in-one replacement for a separate furnace and air conditioner. Ottawa homeowners especially love that a single heat pump can handle our hot summers and cold winters with equal ease.
Modern heat pumps are powered by electricity and are incredibly efficient. Instead of generating heat by burning fuel, they move heat (which uses much less energy). For example, the average heat pump operates at 3–4 times the efficiencyof a standard electric resistance heater, meaning it can deliver 3-4 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners). This translates to significantly lower heating bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions, since you’re burning little or no fossil fuel (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners).
In cooling mode, heat pumps are as effective as the best air conditioners, keeping you comfortable through Ottawa’s July humidity. In short, a heat pump offers year-round climate control for your home in one neat package.
How Do Heat Pumps Work in Ottawa’s Climate?
Ottawa’s winters are no joke – with temperatures frequently diving below -20°C (and sometimes below -30°C). Thankfully, today’s cold-climate heat pumps are engineered to handle these extremes. Traditional heat pumps lost efficiency around freezing, but newer models (often called “cold climate” or “extended capacity” heat pumps) can produce heat even at -25°C or -30°C outdoor temperatures (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners). They achieve this with advanced compressors, inverter technology (which allows the compressor to ramp up or down as needed), and enhanced refrigerants.
According to Greener Home Ottawa, some heat pumps can still generate substantial heat below -30°C (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners) – a crucial feature for Ottawa homeowners.
That said, during the absolute coldest nights (think deep January cold-snaps), even the best heat pump’s output will decline. For this reason, most Ottawa installations include a backup heat source for peak cold periods (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners). This backup might be:
- An existing gas furnace (creating a hybrid dual-fuel system that switches to gas in extreme cold), or
- An electric auxiliary heater (often integrated in the air handler), or even
- Electric baseboard heaters in some cases.
The heat pump will handle the majority of your heating needs efficiently, and the backup only kicks in when outdoor temps drop too low for the heat pump alone (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners). With a properly sized system, the backup heat might only run a few days a year.
The smart thermostats that come with many modern units (like the Lennox S40 or others) can automatically switch to backup heat when needed, so you stay warm no matter what. The key takeaway: heat pumps do work in Ottawa winters – in fact, they’re designed for it – and with a supplemental heat source for the coldest hours, you won’t miss a beat of comfort.
In Ottawa’s summer climate, heat pumps operate just like central air conditioners, providing ample cooling even on 30°C+ days. They dehumidify your home as they cool, making indoor conditions comfortable.
Many cold-climate models are variable-speed, meaning they can run at lower speeds most of the time – this not only saves energy but also eliminates big temperature swings. Your home stays at a steady, even temperature. Plus, variable operation contributes to whisper-quiet sound levels; many top heat pumps are so quiet you’ll hardly notice they’re running (Lennox SL25XPV – AirZone HVAC Ottawa) (Lennox SL25XPV – AirZone HVAC Ottawa).
Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump in Ottawa
Why are so many Ottawa homeowners looking to buy a new heat pump in 2025? Here are some of the top benefits of heat pumps for our region:
- Year-Round Comfort: A heat pump handles heating in winter and cooling in summer in one system. You can retire that old furnace and AC and rely on a single unit for all seasons. Homes that previously didn’t have central air conditioning (e.g. those with boilers or baseboard heat) can gain AC and efficient heat by installing a heat pump.
- Lower Energy Bills: Heat pumps are extremely efficient. As noted, they often run at 300–400% efficiency (versus 100% or less for baseboard heaters or older furnaces) (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners). This can dramatically reduce your heating costs. Even when running on electricity, a heat pump can be cheaper to operate than a gas furnace at current rates – and it’s certainly far cheaper than heating with oil or propane. Cooling costs in summer are also lower compared to older AC units, thanks to high SEER2 ratings on modern pumps.
- Greener Home: By switching to electric heating, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint. Every gigajoule of heat your pump provides is one not coming from burning natural gas or oil. Widespread adoption of heat pump technology is a key strategy for cutting greenhouse gas emissions (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners). Using Ottawa’s relatively clean electricity means your home’s heating is contributing far less to climate change. (Fun fact: The refrigerants and design of newer units are also more environmentally friendly – for example, some use R-454B or R-410A refrigerant which have lower ozone impact.)
- Rebates and Incentives: 2025 is an excellent time to invest in a heat pump. AirZone HVAC Services often runs promotions or discounts (see our latest Rebates and Specials for Ottawa-area HVAC deals). These programs can significantly offset the cost of a new heat pump system, making the upgrade much more affordable. It’s not unusual for homeowners to save thousands through rebates – effectively getting a premium system for a mid-range price.
- Quiet, Comfortable Heating/Cooling: If you’re used to the whoosh of a furnace blower or the loud drone of an old AC, you’ll be amazed at the difference. Heat pumps, especially variable-speed models, run very quietly – often in the 55–70 dB range (about the level of a normal conversation). For instance, the Moovair Central MOOV has a decibel rating as low as 57 dB, much quieter than many older HVAC systems (~70–75 dB) (Central-Moov – Moovair). This means a more peaceful home, with HVAC noise fading into the background. They also provide consistent temperatures; no more hot and cold spots or over-cooling then shutting off – a variable heat pump keeps things steady.
- Improved Air Quality & Zoning: Because heat pumps circulate air, you can combine them with advanced filtration or UV air purifiers to improve indoor air quality. And if you opt for a ductless heat pump setup or a hybrid with multiple zones, you gain precise control over different areas of your home. While our focus in this guide is on central (ducted) heat pumps, note that ductless mini-split heat pumps are also an option for homes without existing ductwork or for additions/rooms that need a boost.
- Increased Home Value: An efficient HVAC upgrade is a selling feature. Installing a modern cold-climate heat pump can increase your home’s value and appeal to future buyers looking for green, cost-saving technologies. It’s an investment in your property as well as your comfort.
In summary, a heat pump in Ottawa gives you one-stop heating and cooling, lower bills, access to rebates, and a greener footprint – all with quiet, reliable performance. Now, let’s look at which models stand out in 2025 for Ottawa homeowners.
Top Cold-Climate Heat Pumps for Ottawa in 2025
AirZone HVAC Services has installed hundreds of heat pumps across Ottawa, and we’ve identified a selection of top-performing cold-climate models that we recommend to our customers. Below, we compare five of the best heat pumps for Ottawa’s conditions in 2025: the Lennox SL25XPV, Mitsubishi ZUBA Central, Bosch IDS Premium, Kinghome UltraNixx, and Moovair Central MOOV.
Each of these units is a ducted, central heat pump system suitable for whole-home heating and cooling. All five are “ultra green” rated in our environmental scale and qualify for the maximum Greener Homes rebates due to their efficiency and performance.
Comparing Ottawa’s Best Heat Pump Models
To make your decision easier, the chart below highlights key differences and similarities between these top models:
| Heat Pump Model | Cold-Climate Performance | Efficiency (SEER2/HSPF2) | Estimated Price Range(Installed) | Notable Features & Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lennox SL25XPV (Central Ducted) | Excellent – operates down to approx -25°C(with backup integration for extreme cold) | Ultra-High – Up to ~23 SEER2 / 9.7 HSPF2 (among the highest) (Kinghome Ultranixx Cold Climate Heat Pump KU36UHO / KU60UHO) (Bosch IDS Premium – AirZone HVAC Ottawa) | $9,000–$18,000 (Lennox SL25XPV – AirZone HVAC Ottawa) | Premium variable-capacity heat pump; whisper-quietoperation (as low as ~58 dB) (Lennox SL25XPV – AirZone HVAC Ottawa); integrates with Lennox S40 smart thermostat & modulating furnace for a fully communicating system; very robust heating performance and top-of-line build quality. |
| Mitsubishi ZUBA Central (Central Ducted) | Outstanding – designed for -30°COttawa winters (Hyper-Heat technology maintains high output in deep cold) | High – ~18–20 SEER2 / ~10 HSPF2 (ENERGY STAR® certified cold-climate heat pump) | $13,000–$21,000 (Mitsubishi ZUBA Central – AirZone HVAC Ottawa) | Flagship cold-climate model with decades-long Ottawa track record; legendary reliability and industry-leading warranty (≃12 years parts); known as “the pinnacle of heat pump technology” for cold regions (Mitsubishi ZUBA Central – AirZone HVAC Ottawa); works seamlessly with Mitsubishi’s electric indoor units for all-electric homes. |
| Bosch IDS Premium (Central Ducted) | Great – heats effectively down to -20°C (some output to mid -25°C with reduced capacity) | High – Up to 20.5 SEER2 / 10.5 HSPF2 (variable-speed inverter compressor) (Kinghome Ultranixx Cold Climate Heat Pump KU36UHO / KU60UHO) | $7,000–$10,000 (Bosch IDS Premium – AirZone HVAC Ottawa) | Best value hybrid system option – pairs excellently with a gas furnace for a dual-fuel setup; ultra quiet summer cooling and reliable winter performance (Bosch IDS Premium – AirZone HVAC Ottawa); backed by Bosch’s reputation for quality; qualifies for maximum rebates (Bosch IDS Premium – AirZone HVAC Ottawa); very popular in Ottawa for those seeking a balance of performance and price. |
| Kinghome UltraNixx (Central Ducted) | Excellent – 100% heating capacity at -10°C, operates reliably down to -30°C (Kinghome Canada: Home) | High – Up to 20 SEER2 / 10.5 HSPF2 (inverter two-stage compressor) (Kinghome Ultranixx Cold Climate Heat Pump KU36UHO / KU60UHO) | $5,500–$9,100 (Kinghome Ultranixx – AirZone HVAC Ottawa) | Cold-climate specialist on a budget; manufactured by Gree (world’s #1 HVAC maker) and backed by 12-year warranty (with registration) – confidence in long-term durability (Kinghome Ultranixx – AirZone HVAC Ottawa) (Kinghome Ultranixx – AirZone HVAC Ottawa); features intelligent defrost and low-noise design (~60 dB) (Kinghome Ultranixx Cold Climate Heat Pump KU36UHO / KU60UHO); great for homeowners seeking affordability and solid performance. |
| Moovair Central MOOV (Central Ducted) | Excellent – engineered for -30°Coperation (maintains 100% capacity to approx -15°C) (Moovair: Home) | High – ~18 SEER2 / ~10 HSPF2 (fully variable-speed DC inverter) | $5,500–$10,000 (Moovair Central MOOV – AirZone HVAC Ottawa) | New-comer designed for Canada (developed by Midea for Canadian distributor); fully variable compressorensures precise temps and efficiency; very quiet outdoor |
(Table notes: SEER2 = Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (cooling efficiency); HSPF2 = Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (heating efficiency). Price ranges are approximate for a typical Ottawa home, including standard installation – your cost may vary based on home size, configuration, and added options. All models below qualify for Canada’s Greener Homes rebates.)
As you can see, all five models are capable of heating a home through Ottawa winters, but they have different strengths:
- The Lennox SL25XPV and Mitsubishi ZUBA Central are premium choices – they carry higher upfront costs but deliver top-tier efficiency, ultra-quiet performance, and the best-of-the-best technology (Lennox for cutting-edge home integration, Mitsubishi for bulletproof cold-weather operation).
- The Bosch IDS Premium strikes a great balance of price and performance. It’s a reliable mid-range option, especially attractive if you plan to keep a gas furnace for hybrid heating – this unit will maximize your savings by switching between electric and gas heat optimally.
- The Kinghome UltraNixx and Moovair Central MOOV are budget-friendly yet fully capable in our climate. They’re excellent choices for homeowners who want to enjoy the benefits of a heat pump without breaking the bank. Despite their lower cost, both have solid warranties and are built by major manufacturers (Gree and Midea respectively), so you can expect longevity and performance.
No matter which model you choose, AirZone HVAC Services will ensure you get a system that is properly sized, expertly installed, and tuned for Ottawa’s climate. We service what we sell, and carry all these models – so you can count on us for parts, support, and maintenance in the long run.
FAQ: Heat Pump Installation, Sizing, and Maintenance in Ottawa
Installing and using a heat pump can raise a lot of questions. Here we answer some of the most common questions Ottawa homeowners have about heat pumps:
Q: Can a heat pump really replace my furnace in Ottawa’s winter? Do I need a backup heat source?
A: A properly selected cold-climate heat pump will handle the vast majority of your heating needs, even in Ottawa. All the models we discussed are designed to work in sub-zero temperatures. However, on the coldest nights of the year (think -30°C extremes), supplemental heat is recommended (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners). Many Ottawa installations use a hybrid approach: the heat pump runs until it can’t keep up, then a backup gas furnace or electric heater kicks in (Heat Pump Information & Models – Greener Home Grant For Ottawa Homeowners). This ensures your home stays warm no matter what. The good news is, the heat pump greatly reduces how often your furnace needs to run (if at all above, say, -20°C). Some homeowners go fully electric with a small backup electric furnace or resistance heater, especially if eliminating gas is a goal. In summary, yes – the heat pump becomes your primary heating, and your existing furnace (or an added electric heater) only assists during the coldest cold snaps. This setup is very common in Ottawa and is something our team will design for you. We ensure your system has the right balance of efficiency and capacity so you’re never left in the cold.
Q: How do I choose the right size heat pump for my home?
A: Sizing a heat pump is critical. An expert HVAC designer will perform a heat load calculation on your home to determine how many BTUs of heating (and cooling) you need. Factors include your home’s square footage, insulation levels, air leakage, number of windows, ceiling height, and more. It’s not just about matching your old furnace’s size – it’s about accurately calculating what your home actually requires. Oversizing or undersizing can lead to inefficiency and comfort issues. AirZone’s team will come to your home (at no cost) to assess these details. We use software and industry guidelines to recommend a heat pump with the appropriate capacity (measured in BTUs or tons). Don’t worry – you don’t have to figure out sizing on your own. Just be prepared to discuss any comfort problems in your home (cold rooms, etc.) so we can address them in the design. Our goal is to select a heat pump that will comfortably heat and cool your home without overworking or short-cycling. With the models in our lineup, we have options ranging from small 2-ton units for townhomes up to 5-ton units (or multi-unit configurations) for large custom homes. We’ll make sure you get the perfect fit.
Q: What is the installation process like for a heat pump?
A: Installing a heat pump in an existing home is usually straightforward when you work with experienced professionals like AirZone. Here’s what to expect from a typical installation:
- Assessment and Quote: First, we evaluate your current HVAC setup. If you have an existing furnace and central AC, we can often retrofit a heat pump using the same ducts. The outdoor AC unit is replaced with the heat pump unit, and an indoor coil or air handler is added to work with your furnace or as a standalone system.
- Installation Day: Our team will schedule a convenient date. Installation typically takes 1–2 days. We start by placing the outdoor unit – a pad or stand is installed (to keep the unit level and above snow), then the heat pump cabinet is set and secured. We run new refrigerant lines to your indoor furnace area. Inside, we’ll install the indoor coil on your furnace or put in a new air handler if it’s an all-electric setup. We also set up the thermostat controls and any required electrical upgrades (a dedicated 240V circuit may be needed for the heat pump).
- Testing and Commissioning: Once everything is connected (refrigerant lines vacuum-tested and charged, wiring completed), we test the system thoroughly in both heating and cooling modes. We’ll make sure the heat pump and furnace communicate properly for backup heat, check airflow, and calibrate the system.
- Education: Our technicians will walk you through the new system – showing you how to use the thermostat, any special modes, and explaining the defrost cycle (heat pumps occasionally go into defrost in winter to clear frost – a normal operation). We ensure you’re comfortable with everything before we leave.
- After Installation: We handle all registration for warranties and will guide you through rebate paperwork (or do it on your behalf). From there, you enjoy your new heat pump! The installation process is minimally invasive – we use existing ducts and electrical as much as possible. In most cases, you won’t need any extensive remodeling or ductwork changes, and we strive to leave your home as clean as we found it.
Q: What maintenance does a heat pump require?
A: Maintenance for a heat pump is very similar to maintenance for a furnace + AC combo – except it’s even more important, because your heat pump works year-round. Key maintenance tasks include:
- Filter Changes: You should replace or clean your return air filter regularly (typically every 1-3 months, depending on filter type and usage). A clean filter ensures proper airflow and efficiency.
- Annual Tune-Ups: We recommend servicing your heat pump twice a year – a check in the spring before cooling season, and in the fall before heating season. During a tune-up, our technicians will inspect the refrigerant levels, clean the outdoor coil of debris, check electrical connections, lubricate fan motors, and ensure the system is operating at peak performance. This keeps your heat pump running efficiently and can catch any issues early.
- Defrost and Drainage: In winter, the outdoor unit will periodically go into defrost mode. It’s designed to do this automatically. Maintenance-wise, you just want to make sure the unit’s base pan drain holes remain clear of ice and that snow buildup is kept away from the unit. We install units on stands or risers to help with this (see image below), but after heavy snow, it’s wise to gently clear around the unit.
Keeping up with maintenance not only prolongs the lifespan of your heat pump (which can easily last 15+ years with care), but also maintains your manufacturer’s warranty. To make maintenance easy, AirZone offers FAMILY Protection Plans – these are scheduled maintenance packages that include comprehensive annual or bi-annual check-ups, priority emergency service, and discounts on any repairs. Many of our Ottawa customers love the peace of mind these plans provide, knowing their HVAC system is in good hands for the long run.
(Lennox SL25XPV – AirZone HVAC Ottawa)
(Bosch IDS Premium – AirZone HVAC Ottawa)
Q: How much can I save with a heat pump, and are there rebates available?
A: The savings from a heat pump will depend on what type of heating you’re coming from. If you currently heat with electric baseboards or an older electric furnace, a heat pump can cut your heating costs by 50-70% by using far less electricity for the same heat output. If you heat with oil or propane, the savings are also substantial – plus you avoid the price volatility of those fuels. For natural gas-heated homes, the operational savings are more nuanced: at current rates, a high-efficiency heat pump can often heat at a similar or lower cost than a mid-efficiency gas furnace. Many Ottawa homeowners choose a hybrid system (heat pump + gas furnace) to get the best economics – using the heat pump for the bulk of the heating season (spring/fall and milder winter days) and gas on the coldest days can yield overall savings on energy bills. On the cooling side, a heat pump is as efficient or better than the best central AC units, so you’ll likely see lower summer electricity bills as well.
Importantly, rebates and incentives greatly improve the financial picture. Right now (as of 2025), you can access:
What Rebates and Incentives Are Available for Heat Pumps in 2025?
While the Canada Greener Homes Grant has officially ended, Ottawa homeowners can still take advantage of excellent financial programs to make buying a new heat pump more affordable in 2025.
🏡 Greener Homes Loan (Interest-Free Financing)
Homeowners can now access up to $40,000 in zero-interest financing through the Canada Greener Homes Loan. This federal program allows you to spread payments over 10 years — with no interest — making it much easier to invest in a high-efficiency heat pump.
To qualify, your installation must be recommended in an EnerGuide audit and meet efficiency criteria. AirZone can guide you through the audit and application process from start to finish.
🔁 Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+)
If your home uses natural gas and you’re switching to an electric cold-climate heat pump or installing a hybrid system, you may qualify for up to $6,500 in rebates through Enbridge Gas’ HER+ program.
This incentive is especially valuable for Ottawa homeowners replacing an older furnace or air conditioner, and it can be stacked with the Greener Homes Loan.
🎁 AirZone HVAC Services In-House Offers
In addition to public programs, AirZone offers seasonal rebates and discounts on select cold-climate heat pump models. These promotions can include:
- Free upgrade incentives (e.g., smart thermostats or extended warranties)
- Bundle savings when pairing a heat pump with a new furnace
- Limited-time markdowns on in-stock equipment
Check our Rebates and Specials page for the most up-to-date promotions — and don’t forget to ask about our rebate consultation service, where we handle all paperwork to ensure you get every dollar available.
By now, we hope it’s clear that a heat pump can be a game-changer for your Ottawa home’s comfort and efficiency. This 2025 buyer’s guide has covered the basics of what heat pumps are, how they work in our climate, the top models to consider, and important factors like installation and maintenance. AirZone HVAC Services is proud to be a local leader in heat pump installations – from Kanata to Orleans, Barrhaven to Stittsville, we’ve helped countless families upgrade to cleaner, more efficient heating and cooling.
Ready to explore a heat pump for your home? We’re here to help every step of the way. Feel free to request a quote for a personalized assessment – our team will provide a detailed proposal and answer any further questions you have. With our expertise and customer-first approach (just check out our 5-star testimonials!), we’ll make sure you get the perfect heat pump solution tailored to your needs and budget. Here’s to staying warm and cool with the power of heat pump technology in 2025 and beyond!
