Ductless vs. Ducted Heat Pumps: What’s Best for Your Canadian Home?
Introduction
Thinking of installing a heat pump but unsure whether to go ducted or ductless? You’re not alone. One of the first choices Canadian homeowners face is deciding between a central (ducted) heat pump and a ductless mini-split system.
The right system depends on your home’s layout, existing HVAC infrastructure, budget, and regional climate. Pick the wrong one, and you could end up with inefficient heating—or costly renovations. In this guide, we’ll compare ducted vs. ductless heat pumps for Canadian homes, breaking down the pros, cons, and best-fit situations for each.
What’s the Difference Between Ducted and Ductless Heat Pumps?
Let’s start with the basics:
View Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Ducted Heat Pump | Ductless (Mini-Split) Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Air Delivery | Through existing ducts and vents | Directly into each room via wall-mounted units |
| Installation | Integrates with furnace/AC system | No ductwork required |
| Appearance | Hidden in ceilings/furnace room | Small visible units in rooms |
| Best For | Homes with existing ducts | Older homes, additions, or no ducts |
Fun fact: Both systems use the same core tech—they just deliver air differently.
Ducted Heat Pumps: Pros, Cons & Ideal Homes
Pros of Ducted Heat Pumps
- Whole-home temperature control with a single system.
- Discreet—no wall-mounted indoor units.
- Compatible with smart thermostats.
- Works well for homes with central forced-air systems.
Cons of Ducted Heat Pumps
- Requires functional ductwork.
- Installation can be costly if ducts need repair or modification.
- Less flexible for homes with closed-off rooms or multiple floors.
Best for: Newer homes, homes with existing furnaces, or major renovations that include duct upgrades.
Example: A Mississauga homeowner with a gas furnace switched to a ducted cold-climate heat pump using the same vents, cutting their winter heating bill by 40%.
Ductless Mini-Splits: Pros, Cons & Ideal Homes
Pros of Ductless Mini-Splits
- Easy install with no ductwork required.
- Zoned comfort—different temperatures in different rooms.
- Ideal for home offices, additions, and rental suites.
- Highly efficient for cold climates.
Cons of Ductless Mini-Splits
- Visible indoor units (usually wall-mounted).
- More expensive to cover a whole home.
- May need multiple units for multi-storey homes.
Best for: Older homes with baseboard heating, homes without ducts, condos, or when adding heating/cooling to one room.
Example: A homeowner in Halifax installed two mini-splits in their 1950s bungalow (no ducts) and now cools in summer and heats in winter for less than $150/month.
Cold Climate Considerations: What Works in Canadian Winters?
In provinces like Alberta, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia, you’ll want a cold-climate-rated system—regardless of duct style.
What to Look For in Cold-Climate Heat Pumps
- HSPF ≥ 10 (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor).
- ENERGY STAR® Cold Climate rating.
- Operates efficiently down to -25°C or lower.
- Variable-speed compressors for better performance in fluctuating temperatures.
Bonus: Ductless systems often perform better in extreme cold because they don’t lose heat through long ducts.
Cost Comparison & Rebates
View Cost Comparison Table
| Feature | Ducted System | Ductless Mini-Split |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Install Cost | $10,000–$15,000 | $4,000–$10,000 |
| Rebates Eligible | Yes | Yes |
| Canada Greener Homes Grant | Up to $5,000 | Up to $5,000 |
| Provincial Add-ons | Yes (e.g., CleanBC, HER+, Efficiency NS, Yukon, Manitoba) | Yes (same) |
Planning Tip: Combine your heat pump install with insulation or window upgrades for additional grants and long-term savings.
Conclusion
Both ducted and ductless heat pumps are excellent options for Canadian homes—it just depends on your setup. If your house already has central air, a ducted system might be your best bet. If not, a ductless mini-split offers efficient, targeted heating and cooling with no need for renovations.
