What is a Heat Pump and How Does it Work?

Unlike a furnace that creates heat by burning fuel, a heat pump moves heat. In the summer, it acts as a high-efficiency air conditioner, pulling heat out of your home. In the winter, it reverses the process, extracting heat from the outdoor air (even when it's freezing!) and pumping it inside.

Common Questions from Durham Homeowners

1. Do heat pumps work in -25°C weather?

Yes, provided you install a Cold-Climate Air Source Heat Pump (ccASHP). Modern units from brands like Daikin or Mitsubishi are specifically designed for Canadian winters and can maintain efficiency even when temperatures drop to -25°C or -30°C.

2. Will I save money on my energy bills?

In Ontario, heat pumps are typically 2 to 4 times more efficient than electric baseboard heaters or oil furnaces. While natural gas remains competitively priced, a heat pump's ability to provide both heating and cooling often results in lower total annual energy costs, especially when paired with a "Hybrid" or "Dual-Fuel" system.

3. What is a "Hybrid" or "Dual-Fuel" system?

This is the most popular choice for homes in Whitby and Durham Region. We pair a high-efficiency heat pump with your existing (or a new) gas furnace. The heat pump handles about 80-90% of the season, and the gas furnace only kicks in during those extreme January "polar vortex" nights.

2026 Heat Pump Rebates in Ontario

One of the biggest reasons to switch right now is the available financial support. As of April 2026, residents in the Durham Region can access several programs:

• Home Renovation Savings Program: A joint initiative by Enbridge Gas and the Ontario Government. You can receive up to $2,000 for gas-heated homes or up to $7,500 if you are switching from electric, propane or oil heating.

• OHPA Program: Federal funding of up to $10,000 for homeowners specifically converting from oil heating to a heat pump.

• Durham Greener Homes: Local incentives and Deep Retrofit Rebates specifically for residents in Whitby and surrounding areas.

Pro Tip: Most rebates in 2026 no longer require a pre-retrofit energy audit, making the process much faster for homeowners!

Why Choose Walchuk Heating and Cooling?

At Walchuk Heating and Cooling, we’ve been serving the Durham Region for years. We understand the local climate and the specific needs of homes in our community.

• TSSA-Certified Technicians: Expert installation and maintenance.

• Rebate Assistance: We handle the complex paperwork for your Enbridge or provincial rebates.

• Local Experts: We know which models perform best in the humidity of Lake Ontario and the winds of North Durham.

Ready to upgrade your home comfort? Contact us today for a free assessment and find out how much you can save with a new heat pump.