Last updated: July 2026
Stay Warm, Get Free Cooling, Lower Your Utility Bills
Save on heating during Calgary's cold winters and enjoy free cooling in summer. Modern cold-climate heat pumps deliver up to 300% efficiency — three times more than a high-efficiency gas furnace.
Heat and Cool Your Home — For Less
A heat pump doesn't generate heat — it moves it. In winter, it extracts heat from outdoor air (yes, even at -25°C) and moves it inside. In summer, it runs in reverse to cool your home. The result: year-round comfort at a fraction of the energy cost.
Natural Resources Canada studies show 25–50% reduction in heating energy vs. natural gas, and 30–40% lower cooling costs compared to a separate air conditioner. With proper maintenance, a heat pump lasts 15–20 years.
- Up to 40–45% reduction in annual energy bills
- Heating and cooling in one system — no separate AC needed
- Reduces household carbon emissions significantly
- Smart thermostat compatible — control from your phone
What Is a Heat Pump, and How Does It Move Heat?
A heat pump is a highly efficient home HVAC system that provides both heating in winter and cooling in summer — true dual functionality. Instead of generating heat by burning fuel, it transfers heat energy from one place to another, delivering comfortable temperatures year-round with significantly less energy consumption.
In winter, the outdoor unit is designed to pull heat from the cold outside air — even air that's colder than the air inside your home — and strip the remaining heat energy out of it. The air leaving the outdoor unit is actually colder than the air that entered it, because the heat pump has extracted the usable heat and sent it inside.
Calgary's unpredictable Chinooks and heat waves can make temperature control a challenge. A heat pump adapts quickly — seamless cooling on hot days and powerful heating during cold snaps. Calgary's weather can swing from freezing cold to warm Chinook winds in an instant, and the sun often overheats a home even on cold days. A heat pump adjusts automatically and takes advantage of these swings, keeping your home comfortable without overheating or wasting energy.
Ducted or Ductless — Which Is Right for You?
Central Ducted Heat Pump
Replaces or supplements your existing forced-air system. Uses your existing ductwork to heat and cool every room. Best for whole-home comfort and homes with functional ducts already in place.
- Works with existing ductwork
- Whole-home heating and cooling
- Compatible with a furnace for hybrid operation
Ductless Mini-Split
Heats individual rooms without ductwork — perfect for additions, garages, basements, and older homes. Functions efficiently at sub-zero temperatures. No ducting required.
- No ductwork installation needed
- Zone-specific heating and cooling
- Ideal for additions and problem rooms
- Perfect for condominiums and smaller spaces — home offices, kids' study rooms, and commercial spaces
Hybrid Dual-Fuel System
Heat pump handles most heating all season. Furnace kicks in automatically during Calgary's coldest days (roughly 3–5% of heating hours). Maximum efficiency, maximum reliability.
- Heat pump does the heavy lifting
- Furnace backup for extreme cold
- Best of both systems — efficiency + reliability
Designed for Cold Climates — Really
How Modern Heat Pumps Handle Calgary Winters
Older heat pumps struggled in extreme cold. Modern cold-climate units like Samsung Max Heat® 3.0 operate efficiently down to -25°C. Calgary's temperatures drop below -25°C during only about 3–5% of heating hours in a typical year. A hybrid system with furnace backup covers the rest.
- Efficient operation to -25°C
- Handles Chinook swings without cycling issues
- Furnace backup for extreme cold snaps
- 15–20 year lifespan with maintenance
Energy Savings That Add Up
A heat pump requires only 20–22% of the total energy that conventional systems use to deliver the same heat output. That efficiency gap translates directly to your monthly bill — and the savings compound over 15–20 years of operation.
- 25–50% lower heating costs vs. natural gas (NRC study)
- 30–40% lower cooling costs vs. standard AC
- Payback period: 5–10 years
- After payback: heating and cooling essentially free
Book Your Free Heat Pump Assessment
We'll evaluate your home, your current system, and recommend the right heat pump — with honest numbers on cost, savings, and payback period.
Heat Pump Installation in 3 Steps
Free Assessment
We assess your home's heating load, existing ductwork, and energy usage. You receive a clear written recommendation with system options and honest payback projections.
Tailored Installation
Our licensed technicians install your heat pump with attention to refrigerant line routing, electrical requirements, and proper sizing — no shortcuts that would compromise efficiency or lifespan.
Testing & Handover
We commission the system, verify performance in both heating and cooling modes, and walk you through operation and maintenance. Warranty on parts and labour included.
Switching to a Heat Pump Cuts Fossil Fuel Consumption
Concerned about climate change? Switching to a heat pump — with up to three times the efficiency of a high-efficiency furnace — cuts down on fossil fuel consumption. A furnace typically produces approximately 0.18 kg of CO2 per kWh of natural gas burned, so a heat pump lowers your household's carbon emissions and helps provide a greener future for your community.
The overwhelming majority of homeowners in Canada, the U.S., and Europe are deeply concerned about climate change. Surveys show that over 70% of people in countries like Canada, France, and Germany view climate change as a major threat, according to Pew Research Center.
Albertans are proud and efficient producers of oil and gas, knowing the world will continue to demand it for years to come. Still, while concern is slightly lower in Alberta than in other regions, nearly 60% of Albertans worry about the impact of climate change, regardless of age, income, or education. Two-thirds of Albertans believe climate change poses a severe threat to the planet, and 53% want the Alberta provincial government to do more to fight it. 61% believe energy companies, and 58% believe businesses, should also do more — according to the 2024 Blue Sky Survey.
Upgrade Your AC to a Heat Pump With Minimal Changes
With systems like Samsung's Hylex, which we install, you can transform your existing air conditioner into a heat pump by upgrading only the outdoor unit of the system.
Enjoy efficient heating and cooling without the need for a complete replacement — lowering your energy costs and your upfront investment.
How Soon Will You See Payback?
Even without government rebates, heat pumps pay for themselves over time through savings on your heating and cooling bills. As temperatures increase and sunny winter days heat your home, free cooling and reduced energy costs help you see a return on your investment within a typical 5–10 year payback period. After that, your heating and cooling are essentially free.
Heat Pump Now, Solar Later: Unlock Future Savings
Choosing a heat pump today is already a smart move — but there's more. If you ever go solar in the future, your heat pump will seamlessly integrate, giving you the option of zero heating and cooling costs down the road. Your heat pump runs on electricity, so combining it with solar energy creates a self-sustaining, cost-free comfort system, when you're ready.
As of 2021, heat pumps accounted for only about 6% of residential heating systems across Canada, including Alberta. According to the Canada Energy Regulator's 2023 Energy Future report, heat pumps are expected to provide 13% of Canada's residential heating by 2030 and 50% by 2050.
In Alberta, 60–65% of home energy goes to space heating. Switching from a furnace to a heat pump can meaningfully reduce that energy use, since heat pumps require only 20–22% of the total energy to heat your home for the same comfort.
Heat Pump Questions
Can a heat pump really work in Calgary winters?
Yes. Modern cold-climate heat pumps operate efficiently down to -25°C. Calgary's extreme cold (below -25°C) occurs during only about 3–5% of annual heating hours. A hybrid dual-fuel system — heat pump plus furnace — handles those coldest days with backup gas heat, so you're never without warmth.
How much can I save on energy bills with a heat pump?
Natural Resources Canada studies show 25–50% reduction in heating energy consumption compared to natural gas systems, and 30–40% lower cooling costs compared to a standard air conditioner. Actual savings depend on your home's insulation, the current system you're replacing, and local utility rates.
Do I still need my gas furnace if I install a heat pump?
Not necessarily, but a hybrid approach is popular in Calgary. The heat pump handles most heating — it's far more efficient than the furnace for most of the season. The furnace (if retained) provides backup on the coldest days. You can also install a standalone heat pump with electric resistance backup if you prefer to remove gas entirely.
Is a heat pump better value than just replacing my air conditioner?
Almost always, yes. An air conditioner only cools. A heat pump cools in summer and heats in winter — and it does so at 2–3× the efficiency of your gas furnace. The additional upfront cost over a standard AC is typically recovered through heating bill savings within 5–10 years. After payback, heating and cooling are essentially free.
How long does a heat pump last?
With proper annual maintenance, a quality heat pump lasts 15–20 years. That's comparable to a high-efficiency furnace. The key is annual service — checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, and verifying electrical connections — to catch wear before it shortens system life.
Will a heat pump increase my home's value?
Yes. Upgrading to energy-efficient systems like a heat pump can boost your home's resale value and appeal to eco-conscious buyers.
Can I control my heat pump with smart technology?
Yes, many heat pumps are compatible with smart thermostats, allowing you to control your home's temperature from your phone.
How does a heat pump perform during Calgary's hot summers?
In cooling mode, a heat pump acts like an air conditioner, keeping your home comfortable during hot, sunny days.
Is a heat pump noisy?
Modern heat pumps are designed to run quietly, ensuring minimal noise disruption for your family.
Can a heat pump be integrated with my current HVAC system?
Yes, a heat pump can work alongside your existing furnace and ventilation system for maximum flexibility.
Is a heat pump safe for my family?
Absolutely. Heat pumps don't burn fuel, eliminating the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and making them a safer option over running a gas-burning furnace.
What's the biggest advantage of a heat pump over an air conditioner?
A heat pump does more than just cool — it also heats efficiently, giving you a versatile, all-in-one solution for year-round comfort, rather than a system that only cools.
Should I still buy a heat pump if no government grants are available?
Yes. The long-term savings on heating and cooling bills can quickly offset the upfront investment, even without grants. We also offer financing options, and the energy savings from a heat pump can help offset upfront costs or payments over time.
What Calgary Homeowners Say
★★★★★ Pedro Jose
"Great customer service! We were treated like friends. Very helpful team!"
★★★★★ Lesley Sugden
"Fantastic company. From the thorough consultation to the installation, everyone we dealt with was professional, knowledgeable, efficient and responsive. They cleaned up after themselves and explained everything we needed to know. I would highly recommend this company for any AC, heating, water tank needs. Thank you Alberta Indoor Comfort for setting us up and making our home more comfortable."
★★★★★ Amardeep Gill
"Was very well versed with the service that was going to be provided. I am quite happy that it was him that came to explain — sometimes you don't even have the questions to ask, but with the knowledge he had, he put me at peace. I would recommend Daryl to everyone. Daryl and James came on a follow-up and were exceptional — thanks for the service."
Cut Your Calgary Heating Bill by Up to 45%
Free in-home heat pump assessment — no obligation, honest numbers on cost, savings, and payback for your specific home.
Cold-Climate Heat Pump Case Studies
Efficiency Vermont Field Study
Monitored seven inverter-driven, ductless heat pumps (Mitsubishi and Fujitsu models) in cold climates. Found these systems provided heat at lower costs than traditional oil or propane systems, even near 0°F. Read the study
Cold-Climate Heat Pumps in Minnesota
Center for Energy and Environment study: a single-family home saw over 50% energy savings after installation, although electricity rates played a role in operational cost outcomes. Learn more
Toronto Residential Case Study
The homeowner reported the heat pump's annual running costs were nearly identical to their previous gas furnace and electric air conditioner combined, with carbon pricing contributing to future savings. Explore the case study
NREL Cold-Climate Demonstration
National Renewable Energy Laboratory evaluated performance at outdoor temperatures as low as -25°F, showing modern air-source heat pumps maintain efficient heating even in sub-zero temperatures. Read the report
Air-Source Heat Pump in Alaska
Monitored heat pumps operating as cold as -25°F, showing modern cold-climate heat pumps provide reliable heating while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. See the feature
Minneapolis Field Study
Cold-climate heat pumps met over 90% of the heating load during winter. Electric costs increased compared to natural gas, but the systems showed significant environmental benefit and potential for further savings with future solar integration. Read here
Building America — CT, MA & VT
Observed inverter-driven heat pump performance across multiple Northeast states, showcasing their ability to maintain efficiency at sub-zero temperatures and perform well compared to oil and propane heating. Read the study
Heat Pump Installation Across Calgary & Area
Ready to Explore a Heat Pump?
Our Recent Heat Pumps Work in Calgary
Additional HVAC Resource
A closer look at another whole-home comfort component from our video library — helpful if humidity control is part of your indoor comfort plan alongside your heat pump.
GeneralAire® Design Features of the 4400A Fan-Assist Evaporative Humidifier
More on Healthy, Comfortable Homes
Cut Your Energy Use by 40% with a Heat Pump
Free in-home assessment. Financing available. Installed by Calgary's most-trusted heating team.
