Heat Pumps vs. Boilers in British Columbia
Choosing between a heat pump and a boiler for your BC home involves understanding efficiency, operating costs, and climate suitability. This guide compares both technologies to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Heat Pump | Boiler (Gas/Propane) | Electric Boiler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $8,000-25,000 | $6,000-12,000 | $3,000-8,000 |
| Efficiency | 250-400% (COP 2.5-4.0) | 80-98% AFUE | 100% |
| Annual operating cost (2,000 sq ft, Coastal BC) | $800-1,200 | $1,000-1,500 | $2,500-3,500 |
| Rebates available | Up to $11,000 | Up to $2,000 | $0-1,000 |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years | 15-25 years | 15-20 years |
| Climate suitability (BC) | Excellent (Coastal), Good (Interior with cold-climate models) | Excellent (all regions) | Fair (high operating costs) |
| Heating + Cooling | Yes | No (heating only) | No (heating only) |
| Emissions (BC Hydro grid) | Very low | Moderate | Very low |
| Best for | Coastal BC, replacing electric/oil systems | Existing hydronic systems, very cold climates | Rarely recommended due to cost |
How They Work
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps transfer heat from outside air (or ground) into your home. They work like a refrigerator in reverse, using electricity to move heat rather than generate it. This makes them highly efficient—you can get 3-4 units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed.
Key metrics:
- COP (Coefficient of Performance): 2.5-4.0 at moderate temperatures
- Capacity: Typically 9,000-60,000 BTU/h (2.6-17.6 kW)
- Operating range: Modern units work to -25°C to -30°C (-13°F to -22°F)
Boilers
Boilers generate heat by burning fuel (natural gas, propane, oil) or using electric resistance. They heat water that circulates through radiators, baseboards, or in-floor heating.
Key metrics:
- AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): 80-98%
- Capacity: Wide range, 50,000-200,000+ BTU/h (14.7-58.6+ kW)
- Fuel sources: Natural gas, propane, heating oil, electricity
Efficiency Comparison
Coastal BC (Vancouver, Victoria, Lower Mainland)
Winter temps: Average lows 0-5°C (32-41°F)
Heat pumps excel in mild coastal climates. At these temperatures, a heat pump with a COP of 3.5 delivers 350% efficiency compared to a high-efficiency gas boiler at 95% AFUE.
Operating cost example (heating a 2,000 sq ft home):
- Heat pump: ~$800-1,200/year (assuming $0.12/kWh electricity)
- Gas boiler: ~$1,000-1,500/year (assuming $1.50/GJ gas)
- Electric boiler: ~$2,500-3,500/year
Interior BC (Kelowna, Kamloops, Prince George)
Winter temps: Average lows -10 to -20°C (14 to -4°F)
Cold-climate heat pumps remain efficient but may require backup heating during extreme cold. Hybrid systems (heat pump + gas boiler) are common.
Operating cost example (2,000 sq ft, colder climate):
- Heat pump (cold-climate): ~$1,200-1,800/year
- Hybrid system: ~$1,000-1,400/year
- Gas boiler: ~$1,400-2,000/year
Installation Costs
Costs vary significantly by home size, existing infrastructure, and complexity.
Heat Pump Installation
- Air-source heat pump (ducted): $8,000-15,000
- Air-to-water heat pump (hydronic): $12,000-25,000
- Ductless mini-split system: $3,000-8,000 per zone
Boiler Replacement
- Gas boiler (condensing): $6,000-12,000
- Electric boiler: $3,000-8,000
- Oil to gas conversion: $10,000-20,000+
Climate Suitability by BC Region
Lower Mainland & Vancouver Island
Recommendation: Heat pumps are highly suitable. Mild winters allow year-round efficient operation.
Okanagan & Southern Interior
Recommendation: Cold-climate heat pumps or hybrid systems. Backup heating advisable for temperatures below -15°C (5°F).
Northern Interior
Recommendation: Hybrid systems strongly recommended. Heat pump handles most of the year; gas boiler provides reliable backup during extreme cold.
Maintenance & Lifespan
Heat Pumps
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Maintenance: Annual filter cleaning, professional service every 1-2 years
- Cost: $150-300/year
Boilers
- Lifespan: 15-25 years
- Maintenance: Annual inspection, cleaning, efficiency check
- Cost: $200-400/year
Rebates & Incentives (BC, 2024-2026)
CleanBC Home Upgrade Rebates:
- Heat pump (air-source): Up to $6,000
- Heat pump (air-to-water): Up to $6,000
- High-efficiency boiler: Up to $1,000
Federal Canada Greener Homes Grant:
- Heat pump installation: Up to $5,000
- Combination of provincial + federal: Up to $11,000
Note: Rebate amounts and eligibility change. Verify current programs before purchasing.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose a Heat Pump If:
- You live in coastal BC or mild climates
- You want lower operating costs
- You're replacing electric baseboard or an old oil system
- You qualify for substantial rebates
Choose a Boiler If:
- You already have a well-functioning hydronic system
- You live in a very cold climate and want proven reliability
- Natural gas is significantly cheaper than electricity in your area
- You need very high heat output for a large home
Choose a Hybrid System If:
- You live in the BC Interior with cold winters
- You want maximum efficiency most of the year + reliability during extreme cold
- You're replacing an existing gas boiler and want to reduce emissions without sacrificing backup heat
Conclusion
For most BC homeowners, particularly in coastal regions, heat pumps offer superior efficiency and lower operating costs. In colder Interior regions, hybrid systems provide the best balance of efficiency, cost, and reliability.
Always consult a qualified HVAC professional to assess your home's heating load, existing infrastructure, and specific climate conditions.
Disclaimer: This guide provides educational information only. It is not engineering advice or a product recommendation. Costs and rebates are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current rebate programs and consult qualified HVAC professionals for system design specific to your home.