Myth vs. fact: What Toronto homeowners should know about heat pumps
Published: July 17, 2026
Summary
Heat pumps are a reliable, energy-efficient option for heating and cooling homes in Toronto’s climate
Upfront costs can be balanced with incentives and long-term energy savings
Understanding the facts help you plan upgrades that fit your home, timeline and budget
Heat pumps are quickly becoming a go-to solution for homeowners who want to reduce energy use, save money and move away from fossil fuels, but misconceptions still hold many people back. Here’s a clear look at the most common myths and what you really need to know.
❌ Myth 1: Heat pumps don’t work in Toronto’s cold winters and hot summers.
✅ Fact: Modern heat pumps are designed to handle Toronto’s weather year-round, from winter temperatures as low as -30°C* to summer temperatures above 30°C, although performance can vary by model and installation conditions.
Today’s cold-climate heat pumps can operate efficiently even in sub-zero temperatures, providing reliable heating throughout the winter. While extremely cold days may require a backup system, many homeowners find heat pumps handle most of their heating needs comfortably.
In the summer, heat pumps reverse the process to provide cooling, helping maintain indoor comfort during heat waves and periods of high humidity when outdoor temperatures can exceed 30°C and feel even hotter with the humidex. With one system providing both heating and cooling, heat pumps offer a versatile solution for Toronto’s changing climate.
* Performance varies by model and installation conditions.
❌ Myth 2: Heat pumps are too expensive.
✅ Fact: Upfront costs can be higher, but incentives, loan programs and long-term savings help offset them.
Upgrading your furnace before it reaches end of life helps you control your budget and benefit from current incentives.
❌ Myth 3: Heat pumps aren’t very efficient.
✅ Fact: Heat pumps are one of the most efficient ways to heat and cool a home.
Unlike traditional furnaces that generate heat, heat pumps transfer heat, using less energy to maintain comfortable temperatures. They also provide cooling in the summer, offering a two-in-one solution that can simplify your home’s HVAC system.
❌ Myth 4: Heat pumps only work in newer homes.
✅ Fact: Many older homes can be upgraded to use heat pumps.
Whether you live in a newer build or an older home, heat pumps can often be integrated as part of a broader retrofit plan. Improvements like insulation and air sealing can enhance performance, making your home more energy efficient overall.
Check out the following video to see how Toronto homeowner, Katheryne S., is making upgrades over time to help improve comfort and energy use. A heat pump can be one part of that journey.
❌ Myth 5: If you have a furnace, you should immediately replace it with a heat pump.
✅ Fact: You can transition from a furnace to a heat pump based on your needs and priorities.
Energy-efficient renovations, such as heat pumps, don’t have to happen overnight. You can transition from a furnace to a heat pump based on your needs, budget and priorities. In fact, it's often best to plan rather than wait for your furnace to break down, which can limit your options and lead to rushed decisions.
Toronto Hydro can support your journey with energy-saving programs, tools and resources that help homeowners make informed decisions at every stage of their energy management and efficiency upgrades.
Making the switch to a heat pump is ultimately about understanding your options and planning ahead. With the right information and support, it’s a practical step toward a more efficient, comfortable home.
Book a free energy coaching session with one of our Toronto Hydro energy experts and get personalized guidance to help plan your energy-efficient home upgrades.