Older homes across Ottawa—especially in neighbourhoods like Alta Vista, Civic Hospital, and Centretown—often come with heating and cooling challenges. From outdated ductwork to energy inefficiency, these homes weren’t designed with today’s HVAC systems in mind. At AirZone HVAC Services, we specialize in modernizing comfort for older homes with customized heat pump and air conditioning solutions that match your home’s structure, budget, and efficiency goals.
The Challenge of Older Homes
Many homes built prior to 2000 lack:
- Proper duct sizing or airflow balancing
- Sufficient insulation for efficient HVAC performance
- Zoned heating and cooling for comfort in all rooms
When these homes try to rely on older furnaces or central air conditioners, the result is often:
- Uneven room temperatures
- High utility bills
- Frequent HVAC breakdowns
Our Recommended HVAC Upgrades
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in mature Ottawa neighbourhoods upgrade their systems—without tearing apart walls or ceilings. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Cold Climate Heat Pumps
Perfect for year-round heating and cooling, especially in tight or retrofitted spaces.
Why they work well in older homes:
- No need for full duct replacement
- Rebates available for high-efficiency models
- Quiet, compact, and ultra-efficient
We often install cold-climate rated models from brands like Mitsubishi and Lennox in Central Ottawa homes that require reliable winter performance.
2. High-Efficiency Air Conditioners
For homes with existing ductwork in decent condition, upgrading to a two-stage or variable speed air conditioner can drastically reduce cooling costs and improve humidity control.
AirZone carries top models like the Lennox EL18XC1 and Amana ASXH5, both ideal for Ottawa’s heatwaves.
3. Zoned Mini-Split Systems
When ductwork isn’t an option or renovations are too invasive, mini-split heat pumps offer total control with sleek wall-mounted indoor heads.
We’ve recently installed systems in:
- Civic Hospital semi-detached homes
- Glebe century homes with plaster walls
- Upper-level additions with no prior HVAC coverage
Combine Efficiency with Rebates
Right now, homeowners upgrading older homes can qualify for major rebates, including:
- Federal programs for cold-climate heat pumps
- Manufacturer offers from Lennox, Amana, and Mitsubishi
- Seasonal AirZone promotions on equipment bundles
Learn more on our rebates page.
Why Choose AirZone for Older Ottawa Homes?
- We’re experienced with unique layouts and retrofit requirements
- Our team is fully employed (no subcontractors!)
- We walk you through every rebate and financing option
- We treat older homes with care—no mess, no shortcuts
Whether you’re in the Glebe, Old Ottawa South, or Rockcliffe, we design systems that fit your home’s needs and your long-term budget.
📍 Want personalized advice? Book a free HVAC quote with our team today and ask about our recent installs in your neighbourhood.
Upgrading HVAC in Older Ottawa Homes – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a heat pump in a home without ducts?
Yes. Ductless heat pump systems, also known as mini splits, are perfect for older Ottawa homes without central ductwork. They offer year-round heating and cooling, and allow for flexible zoning without major renovations.
Is my home too old for a modern HVAC system?
Not at all. Our team regularly upgrades homes built before 1950 and throughout the 20th century. With the right system design and professional installation, your home can enjoy the benefits of modern efficiency and comfort.
How can I tell if my ductwork needs replacement?
Warning signs include uneven temperatures, high energy bills, whistling noises, and visible wear or gaps in ductwork. We offer duct inspections and airflow testing to determine whether repairs, sealing, or full replacement is needed.
Will I qualify for heat pump or AC rebates?
Most older homes in Ottawa qualify for valuable rebates, especially when switching to a cold climate heat pump. We stay up to date on all available programs and handle the rebate paperwork for you from start to finish.
