Heat pump vs gas or propane furnace in Ontario.

Seven factors that change the heating decision

• Documented heat-loss and equipment-sizing work completed by the appropriate professional.
• Existing ducts, hydronic distribution, geothermal loops or other infrastructure.
• Electrical service and panel capacity, plus other planned electric loads.
• Capacity and efficiency at the outdoor conditions relevant to the home.
• Backup or auxiliary heat strategy and how its controls operate.
• Fuel availability, maintenance, service access and household preferences.
• Capital cost, current incentives, operating scenarios and expected ownership horizon.

Propane and rural homes need a different comparison

Propane storage, delivery, generator plans, long outages, well water and existing backup heat can change the operating strategy. The IESO says the Home Renovation Savings program serves eligible consumers whose primary heating includes electricity, natural gas, oil, wood or propane.

A lower annual fuel estimate does not prove that one configuration will maintain comfort or suit the electrical system. Capacity, balance point, controls and backup operation must be documented rather than assumed.

What a useful heat-pump quote should state

• Exact indoor and outdoor equipment models and quantities.
• Design assumptions and stated capacity at relevant temperatures.
• Backup heat type, balance point and control sequence.
• Duct, line-set, thermostat, zoning and condensate scope.
• Electrical work, permits, commissioning and disposal responsibilities.
• Rebate assumptions, warranty terms and exclusions.