Should you switch?
Will a heat pump lower my bill if I heat with gas?
What the government says
For households currently heating with natural gas, it is possible that switching to a heat pump may not decrease heating bills, depending on region, the heat pump system selected, and other factors. (Canada.ca)
It also says to always ask your installer whether a heat pump makes sense locally, and to consider running costs and access to certified technicians.
What drives the answer
- Gas price vs electricity price where you live. This is the biggest factor, and it varies a lot by province.
- Efficiency of the heat pump, especially in cold weather.
- Your home's insulation and air sealing.
- Whether you keep the furnace for very cold days.
- Air conditioning: if you'd buy AC anyway, a heat pump does both.
Where the case is stronger
The rebate is open to all fuels. Savings tend to be clearer when replacing oil, propane or electric baseboard, which usually cost more to run than gas. We don't publish a savings figure because it depends on local prices. We'd rather say "it depends" than guess.
How to decide
- Ask each installer for an estimated annual running cost, compared with your current system.
- Compare quotes with and without keeping the gas furnace as backup.
- Factor in the rebate ($2,000, or up to $10,000 below the income threshold) and any provincial programme.
- Remember: one rebate per household. If you own other properties, consider where it saves the most.
Frequently asked questions
Can gas-heated homes get the National Heat Pump Rebate?
Yes. Natural gas is on the list of current heating fuels that qualify, and you don't need to remove your furnace.
Will my heating bill go down?
Not necessarily. The government says that for gas-heated homes, switching may not decrease heating bills, depending on region, the heat pump system and other factors.
Can I keep my gas furnace as backup?
The rules say you don't have to remove your existing system. Many homes keep the furnace for the coldest days (a 'hybrid' or dual-fuel setup). Ask your installer how they'll control it.
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