Myth or true? The 5-question quiz
Tap an answer to see why.
Key takeaways
- Cold-climate heat pumps are built for cold winters, and rebate programs ask for them.
- A bigger unit is not better. Sizing follows your home's heat loss.
- Whether you get a rebate depends on what heats your home today.
- Check the installer and the model before you sign.
Heat pumps move heat instead of making it, which is why they can be so efficient. They also come with a lot of half-true stories. The rebate programs help here, because their rules tell you what the experts will and will not pay for.
Below are six myths. For each one you get the short answer and what the program rules say. Then take the quiz. Our guide to a fair heat pump quote picks up where this leaves off.
Six myths, one verdict each
1Myth: heat pumps do not work when it is cold
Verdict: mostly busted. Cold-climate models exist for this. Programs know it: BC Hydro asks that a whole-home heat pump meets 100% of your heating at -5°C, and the FortisBC rebate asks for a cold-climate certified model. Pick a model that is built and listed for your climate, and ask the installer to show you the numbers.
2Myth: a bigger heat pump is a safer bet
Verdict: busted. Sizing follows your home's heat loss, not a guess. Ontario's heat pump stream pays by the ton of rated capacity and has sizing rules for homes on electric, oil or wood heat. An oversized unit costs more up front and does not help the rebate.
3Myth: you only get a rebate if you heat with gas
Verdict: busted, and it depends on the program. BC Hydro's rebate is for homes replacing electric heat. Ontario pays more per ton for homes on electricity, oil, propane or wood than for Enbridge gas homes. Know what heats your home and who your utility is, then match the program.
4Myth: buy first, apply later
Verdict: depends where you live. In BC you apply within six months of the invoice. In Ontario's heat pump stream you need written pre-approval before the install. The wrong order can cost you the rebate.
5Myth: any HVAC company can install it for a rebate
Verdict: busted for BC. BC Hydro's heat pump rebate needs a Heat Pump Contractor Network member, and the rebate page lists the rule. Ontario asks for a program-trained contractor. Check the official list before you hire.
6Myth: a heat pump is only for heating
Verdict: busted. The same machine can cool in summer. That is one of the reasons many homeowners like it. Ask for a quote that shows both modes, and ask about the model's cooling rating.
The best myth-buster is a number from your own house. Ask your installer for the heat loss math and a model number.
Common questions
Do heat pumps work in very cold places?
Cold-climate models are made for it, and programs ask for them. Ask your installer to show numbers for your coldest days.
Do I need to keep my old furnace?
It depends on your home and the program rules. Some homeowners keep a backup. Ask your installer what they advise and check the program page.
How do I find out what heats my home today?
Look at your utility bills and the equipment itself. Your installer can confirm it during the visit.
Is the quiz a rebate test?
No. It is for learning. The real rules are on the program pages linked below.
Keep reading
- Listicle and quiz9 questions to ask a heat pump installer
- Listicle and quiz7 sneaky ways to lose your rebate
- GuideHow to get a fair heat pump quote
Sources, read October 23, 2026: BC Hydro: renovating your heating system, FortisBC: air source heat pump rebate, Home Renovation Savings: heat pump stream requirements.