Heat pump products, technical requirements, permit rules and incentive programs can change. Confirm current requirements for the exact property, equipment combination, contractor and installation date before signing a contract or ordering equipment.
A professional heat pump installation quote should identify the exact equipment, the design basis, the complete installation scope, the responsible trades and the work that is excluded. It should explain how the heat pump was sized, how it will serve the intended rooms, how much winter heating capacity it provides and how supplementary heat will operate.
The quote should also address ductwork or indoor-unit placement, electrical requirements, refrigerant piping, condensate and defrost drainage, permits, removal of existing equipment, commissioning, warranties, payment terms and possible change orders.
Do not compare quote totals until you have confirmed that the contractors are proposing comparable systems and comparable installation work.
What Should a Heat Pump Installation Quote Include?
At minimum, a heat pump quote should clearly state:
- The project objective
- The areas of the home the system will serve
- The calculated heating and cooling loads
- The exact indoor and outdoor model numbers
- The system configuration
- The cold-weather heating capacity
- The supplementary-heating strategy
- The duct or indoor-zone design
- The electrical work
- The equipment locations
- The refrigerant-piping scope
- The condensate and defrost-water plan
- The required permits and approvals
- The commissioning procedure
- The warranty terms
- The total price and exclusions
A Model Number and Total Price Are Not Enough
The same outdoor heat pump can be quoted with different:
- Indoor equipment
- Thermostats
- Backup heaters
- Duct modifications
- Electrical work
- Installation methods
- Warranty coverage
Those differences can materially affect comfort, reliability and project cost.
Compare Scope Before Price
A lower quote may simply exclude work that another contractor has included.
Why Should the Heat Pump Quote Be Written and Property-Specific?
A written quote creates a record of what the contractor inspected, recommended and agreed to provide.
A Property-Specific Quote Should Reflect:
- The home’s construction
- Existing heating system
- Ductwork or room layout
- Electrical service
- Equipment locations
- Homeowner objectives
A Generic Product Proposal Is Not a Complete Installation Contract
A manufacturer brochure can describe the equipment, but it does not explain:
- Where the equipment will be installed
- What electrical work is required
- How rooms will receive heat
- Who obtains permits
- What happens to the old equipment
Request a Revised Quote After Design Changes
If the contractor changes the:
- Equipment model
- Outdoor location
- Number of indoor units
- Electrical scope
- Backup-heating design
the written quote should be updated before work begins.
1. Project Objective and Coverage
The quote should state what the heat pump is intended to accomplish.
Possible Project Objectives Include:
- Whole-home heating and cooling
- Partial-home heating and cooling
- Replacement of an existing furnace
- Replacement of electric baseboards
- Cooling for selected rooms
- Heating and cooling for an addition or suite
- Dual-fuel operation with a furnace
Coverage Should Be Specific
Instead of stating:
“Install a ductless heat pump.”
the quote should clarify whether the system will serve:
- The main living area only
- The complete main floor
- Bedrooms
- The basement
- All finished living spaces
Partial-Home Systems Need a Plan for Unserved Rooms
The quote should identify which existing heaters remain and which rooms depend on them.
Do Not Assume Whole-Home Coverage From Total Capacity
A heat pump can have enough total output while distributing it poorly between rooms.
2. Existing Heating Equipment and Removal Scope
The quote should explain what happens to the existing heating and cooling equipment.
Possible Existing Equipment Includes:
- Gas furnace
- Electric furnace
- Air conditioner
- Boiler
- Electric baseboards
- Existing heat pump
- Thermostats
The Quote Should State Whether Equipment Is:
- Removed
- Retained
- Reused
- Deactivated
- Disposed of
For Gas Equipment, Clarify:
- Who disconnects the gas appliance
- Who obtains the gas permit where required
- How gas piping is safely terminated
- What happens to venting
- Whether another gas appliance still uses the vent or chimney
For an Existing Air Conditioner
Confirm whether the scope includes:
- Refrigerant recovery
- Outdoor-unit removal
- Indoor-coil removal
- Line-set replacement or evaluation
- Disposal
Baseboard Removal Should Be Explicit
Do not assume every electric baseboard is being removed. Retaining some units can be part of a deliberate room-heating or backup strategy.
3. Heating and Cooling Load Calculations
A whole-home quote should identify how the contractor determined the required equipment capacity.
The Load Calculation Should Consider:
- Building location
- Outdoor design temperature
- Indoor design temperature
- Home dimensions
- Insulation
- Windows and doors
- Air leakage
- Foundation and basement
- Planned envelope upgrades
Request the Result
The proposal or supporting documents should show:
- Design heating load
- Design cooling load
- Design temperatures
- Important assumptions
Square Footage Is Not a Load Calculation
Rules based only on floor area ignore:
- Window area
- Air leakage
- Insulation
- Building shape
- Local climate
The Existing Furnace Size Is Not a Load Calculation
An old furnace may be oversized or may have been selected before building improvements were completed.
Planned Renovations Should Be Documented
If the quote assumes future:
- Attic insulation
- Air sealing
- Window replacement
- Basement insulation
those assumptions should be realistic and written into the design basis.
Natural Resources Canada provides an Air-Source Heat Pump Sizing and Selection Toolkit for Canadian residential applications.
4. Exact Indoor and Outdoor Equipment Models
The quote should list exact model numbers rather than only a manufacturer or product family.
Depending on the System, List:
- Outdoor unit
- Indoor air handler
- Indoor coil
- Ductless indoor units
- Furnace
- Electric heat kit
- Thermostat or controller
Why Exact Models Matter
They determine:
- Heating capacity
- Cooling capacity
- Efficiency ratings
- Electrical requirements
- Sound information
- Control compatibility
- Warranty
Ask for the Certified Equipment Match
Where applicable, request the AHRI certified reference number for the proposed indoor and outdoor combination.
One Outdoor Unit Can Have Several Matches
Different indoor equipment can produce different:
- Capacities
- Efficiency ratings
- Eligibility results
Substitutions Require Review
The contract should state that a different model will not be installed without homeowner approval.
5. Cold-Weather Capacity and Modulation
Nominal tonnage does not describe the complete heating performance of a heat pump.
The Quote Should Address Heating Capacity At:
- A mild outdoor condition
- A relevant colder condition
- The local design condition or nearest published condition
Compare Capacity With the Building Load
The proposal should explain:
- How much heat the home requires
- How much heat the heat pump provides
- Where a capacity shortfall begins
- How supplementary heat covers the shortfall
Minimum Capacity Matters Too
Ask how low the equipment can modulate during mild conditions.
This is especially important for:
- Small homes
- Condos
- Well-insulated homes
- Bedrooms
- Multi-zone systems
Do Not Compare Nominal Tonnage Alone
Two systems with the same nominal size can have different:
- Low-temperature capacity
- Minimum capacity
- Operating range
- Efficiency
Request Performance Data for the Exact Match
Do not accept a table for another model or another indoor-unit combination.
6. Ductwork or Room-Distribution Design
The quote should explain how heat and cooling will reach the intended rooms.
For a Central Ducted System, Address:
- Existing duct condition
- Supply capacity
- Return-air capacity
- Filter arrangement
- Static pressure
- Required duct modifications
- Room balancing
Possible Duct Work Includes:
- Larger return duct
- New return grille
- Improved transitions
- Duct sealing
- Damper adjustment
- Branch repair
- Filter-cabinet replacement
For a Ductless System, Address:
- Each indoor-unit location
- Rooms served by each unit
- Closed-door conditions
- Other floors
- Rooms retaining supplementary heat
Do Not Accept “Heat Will Travel” as the Complete Distribution Plan
Open living areas can transfer air reasonably well, but walls, corridors and closed doors limit distribution.
Mixed Systems Should Be Clearly Shown
If the proposal combines:
- Central ducted equipment
- Ductless heads
- Concealed ducts
- Retained heaters
the scope should identify which system serves each area.
7. Supplementary and Emergency Heating
The quote should distinguish supplementary heat from emergency heat.
Supplementary Heat
This adds heating capacity when the heat pump alone cannot meet the current building load.
Emergency Heat
This is an alternative heating mode used when normal heat-pump operation is unavailable, where the equipment and controls provide that function.
Possible Heating Sources Include:
- Electric resistance heat kit
- Gas furnace
- Retained electric baseboards
- Retained boiler
- Other independent heating
For Electric Heat, the Quote Should State:
- Heat-kit capacity
- Electrical requirements
- Number of stages
- Control strategy
- Whether it is included in the quoted price
For Dual Fuel, the Quote Should State:
- Furnace model
- Heat-pump operating range
- Changeover strategy
- Thermostat or controller
- Whether simultaneous operation is permitted
Do Not Accept an Unexplained Backup Heater
The proposed capacity should follow the building load and heat-pump performance rather than simply using the largest available heat kit.
8. Thermostat and Control Strategy
The thermostat or controller determines how the heat pump, blower and supplementary heating interact.
The Quote Should Identify:
- Thermostat or controller model
- Wiring requirements
- Number of heating and cooling stages
- Communicating or conventional control
- Wi-Fi or remote features where included
Variable-Capacity Equipment May Need Specific Controls
A generic thermostat can sometimes reduce access to:
- Modulation
- Diagnostics
- Manufacturer control features
- Energy-use information
Dual-Fuel Controls Need Defined Logic
The quote should explain how the controller chooses between:
- Heat pump
- Furnace
- Supplementary operation
Existing Thermostat Wiring May Need Modification
Older furnace systems may not have enough conductors for the proposed heat-pump controls.
Include Setup and Homeowner Training
The contractor should configure and explain:
- Heat mode
- Cool mode
- Fan settings
- AUX Heat
- Emergency Heat where applicable
- Schedules
9. Complete Electrical Scope
Electrical work should not appear as a vague allowance unless the reason for the allowance is clearly explained.
The Quote Should Identify:
- Outdoor-unit circuit
- Indoor-unit circuit
- Breaker requirements
- Electrical disconnect
- Heat-kit circuit
- Control wiring
- Panel changes
- Service upgrade where required
Panel Space and Service Capacity Are Different
An empty breaker position does not prove the service has sufficient capacity.
Ask Who Performs the Electrical Work
The proposal should identify whether electrical work is:
- Completed by the main contractor
- Completed by an electrical subcontractor
- Excluded and arranged separately by the homeowner
Ask Whether Permit Fees Are Included
A line item should state:
- Electrical permit included
- Electrical permit additional
- Permit arranged by another contractor
Existing Air-Conditioner Circuits Need Verification
Do not assume the old circuit is suitable for the new heat pump.
Future Electrical Loads Matter
Tell the electrical contractor about planned:
- EV charging
- Electric water heating
- Induction cooking
- Hot tub
- Secondary suite
10. Outdoor-Unit Location and Mounting
The quote should state where the outdoor unit will be placed and how it will be supported.
Possible Mounting Methods Include:
- Ground stand
- Equipment pad
- Wall bracket
- Balcony mounting
- Roof stand
- Mechanical platform
The Location Should Address:
- Airflow clearances
- Service access
- Sound
- Vibration
- Roof runoff
- Snow where relevant
- Defrost drainage
- Physical protection
Ask for the Exact Location
A photograph or marked plan can prevent disputes on installation day.
Wall Brackets Need Vibration Consideration
Attaching equipment to a bedroom wall or lightweight structure can transmit vibration into the building.
Do Not Enclose the Unit Without Airflow Analysis
Decorative screens or enclosures can restrict intake or cause discharge air to recirculate.
Check Proximity to Gas or Propane Equipment
Outdoor-unit placement can require specific clearances from propane tanks, regulators or gas exhaust locations.
11. Indoor-Equipment Location and Access
The quote should identify where every indoor component will be installed.
Central Equipment Can Include:
- Air handler
- Indoor coil
- Furnace
- Electric heat kit
- Filter cabinet
- Condensate pan
Ductless Equipment Can Include:
- Wall-mounted heads
- Floor-mounted units
- Ceiling cassettes
- Concealed-duct air handlers
Consider Service Access
Technicians need reasonable access to:
- Filters
- Electrical panels
- Blower components
- Drain pans
- Refrigerant connections
- Control boards
Indoor-Unit Placement Affects Comfort
Avoid locations that blow continuously onto:
- Beds
- Sofas
- Desks
- Dining areas
Check Cabinet and Ceiling Clearances
Equipment should not be installed where normal maintenance requires dismantling permanent construction.
12. Refrigerant Line-Set Scope
The quote should explain whether refrigerant piping is new, reused or partly replaced.
For New Piping, Clarify:
- Approximate route
- Pipe sizes
- Exterior protection
- Insulation
- Support
- Allowable length
- Vertical separation
For Existing Piping, Clarify:
- Whether it is compatible
- Whether it will be pressure tested
- Whether flushing or other preparation is required
- Whether replacement may become necessary
- How additional work will be priced
Exterior Line Covers Should Be Included in the Design
The quote should state:
- Route
- Colour where relevant
- Number of exterior runs
- Whether line cover is included
Long or Complex Runs Can Affect Price
Clarify any included piping allowance and the price for additional length.
Do Not Leave Routing Entirely to Installation Day
The route affects:
- Appearance
- Performance
- Leak risk
- Wall penetrations
- Strata approval
13. Condensate and Defrost-Water Drainage
Heat pumps produce water in both cooling and heating operation.
Indoor Cooling Condensate
The quote should identify whether the system uses:
- Gravity drain
- Condensate pump
- Plumbing connection
- Secondary drain pan
- Overflow protection
Condensate Pump Details
Where a pump is required, ask whether the scope includes:
- Pump model
- Power supply
- Safety switch
- Accessible service location
- Discharge route
Outdoor Defrost Water
The outdoor unit can release water during winter defrost.
Avoid Drainage Toward:
- Walkways
- Stairs
- Doors
- Neighbouring property
- Lower balconies
- Areas where ice can form
Do Not Accept “It Will Drain Somewhere”
The intended water path should be considered before the mounting location is approved.
14. Wall Penetrations and Finish Repairs
Heat pump work can require openings for:
- Refrigerant piping
- Drainage
- Electrical conduit
- Control wiring
- Ductwork
The Quote Should Identify Responsibility For:
- Drilling
- Weather sealing
- Air sealing
- Fire stopping where required
- Exterior line covers
- Interior patching
- Drywall repair
- Painting
Finish Repair Is Often Excluded
Do not assume the HVAC contractor includes:
- Painting
- Wallpaper repair
- Exterior cladding repair
- Cabinet modification
- Custom carpentry
Older Buildings Can Require Hazardous-Material Assessment
The quote should state whether testing or abatement of suspect materials is:
- Included
- Excluded
- Homeowner responsibility
Strata Buildings Need Additional Detailing
Exterior penetrations may affect:
- Common property
- Rain-screen systems
- Fire separations
- Waterproofing
- Strata-approved appearance
15. Permits, Approvals and Incentive Responsibilities
The quote should identify every known permit and approval required for the proposed scope.
Possible Requirements Include:
- Electrical permit
- Gas permit
- Applicable refrigeration permit
- Municipal building approval
- Structural approval
- Strata approval
- Heritage approval
Technical Safety BC Current Guidance
Most residential heat pump installations or upgrades require an electrical permit and qualified electrical work. Modifying or removing a gas furnace or boiler also requires the applicable gas work and permit.
Review the current Technical Safety BC heat pump guidance.
Permit Responsibility Should Be Written
The proposal should state:
- Who applies
- Who pays the fee
- Who coordinates inspection
- Which documentation the homeowner receives
Strata Approval Is Separate
The quote should not imply that an electrical permit gives permission to alter:
- Exterior walls
- Balconies
- Roofs
- Common property
Incentive Responsibilities Should Be Clear
Identify who confirms:
- Homeowner eligibility
- Contractor eligibility
- Equipment eligibility
- Pre-approval requirements
- Required load documentation
- Invoice requirements
Do Not Treat an Incentive as Guaranteed Payment
The contractor can provide documentation and technical information, but final program approval belongs to the program administrator.
16. Installation and Commissioning Procedures
A quote should describe what happens after the equipment is physically mounted.
Installation Scope Can Include:
- Correct refrigerant piping
- Leak testing
- Evacuation
- Charge adjustment where required
- Electrical testing
- Drain testing
- Control configuration
- Equipment startup
Commissioning Is More Than Startup
Depending on system type, commissioning should verify:
- Heating operation
- Cooling operation
- Indoor and outdoor fans
- Thermostat configuration
- Supplementary heating
- Dual-fuel changeover
- Airflow
- Static pressure
- Condensate drainage
- Fault-free operation
For Ducted Systems, Ask Whether the Contractor Will Record:
- Blower setup
- External static pressure
- Delivered airflow
- Supply and return temperature data
For Ductless Systems
Every indoor unit should be tested for:
- Heating
- Cooling
- Fan operation
- Communication
- Drainage
- Controls
Include Homeowner Handover
The final scope should include:
- Operating instructions
- Filter instructions
- Normal defrost explanation
- Warranty documentation
- Fault-reporting guidance
17. Warranty and Future Service Support
The quote should distinguish manufacturer coverage from contractor coverage.
Manufacturer Warranty Can Include:
- Parts
- Compressor
- Heat exchanger
- Other manufacturer-specific components
Contractor Warranty Can Include:
- Installation workmanship
- Labour
- Service response
- Specified installation materials
Ask Whether Registration Is Required
The quote or handover should state:
- Who registers the equipment
- The registration deadline
- What information the homeowner receives
Parts Warranty Does Not Necessarily Cover:
- Diagnostic appointments
- Labour
- Refrigerant
- Recovery and evacuation
- Shipping
- Additional materials
Ask Who Provides Warranty Service
Confirm whether the installer:
- Services the equipment
- Processes manufacturer claims
- Has access to technical support
- Can source proprietary parts
Get Verbal Promises in Writing
If the salesperson promises:
- Extended labour coverage
- Free maintenance
- Priority service
- Specific response times
the written quote should reflect that promise.
18. Price, Exclusions, Payment and Change Orders
The quote should provide a clear complete price or clearly identified allowances.
Possible Price Categories Include:
- Equipment
- HVAC labour
- Electrical work
- Ductwork
- Controls
- Permits
- Equipment removal
- Commissioning
- Taxes
Read Every Exclusion
Common exclusions can include:
- Electrical service upgrade
- Drywall and painting
- Asbestos testing or abatement
- Structural engineering
- Roofing
- Plumbing modifications
- Strata engineering
- Unexpected concealed damage
Allowances Should Have a Basis
If the price includes a line-set or electrical allowance, clarify:
- What quantity is included
- The unit price for additional work
- Who approves added cost
Payment Schedule
The contract should state:
- Deposit
- Progress payments
- Final payment
- Payment method
- Conditions for final payment
Change Orders Should Be Written
Additional work should identify:
- Reason for change
- Scope
- Added or reduced price
- Schedule impact
- Homeowner approval
Cancellation and Equipment-Order Terms
Clarify:
- Whether equipment is returnable
- Restocking fees
- Cancellation charges
- What happens if permits or strata approval are denied
Heat Pump Installation Quote Comparison Table
| Quote Item | Contractor A | Contractor B | Contractor C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project objective and areas served | |||
| Heating load and design temperature | |||
| Cooling load | |||
| Outdoor model | |||
| Indoor model or models | |||
| AHRI reference where applicable | |||
| Cold-weather heating capacity | |||
| Minimum capacity | |||
| Supplementary heat | |||
| Duct or room-distribution work | |||
| Thermostat and controls | |||
| Electrical work | |||
| Outdoor mounting and location | |||
| Line-set route and protection | |||
| Condensate and defrost drainage | |||
| Permits and fees | |||
| Existing-equipment removal | |||
| Commissioning measurements | |||
| Parts warranty | |||
| Labour warranty | |||
| Major exclusions | |||
| Total before tax | |||
| Total after tax |
Do Not Score Every Row Equally
Load calculation, distribution design, electrical safety and commissioning usually matter more than minor accessory differences.
What Should a Central Ducted Heat Pump Quote Include?
- Exact outdoor unit and air-handler models
- Heating and cooling loads
- Cold-weather capacity
- Indoor coil and filter information
- Existing duct assessment
- Required return and supply modifications
- Blower and airflow setup
- Static-pressure verification
- Electric or furnace supplementary heat
- Thermostat and controls
- Condensate drainage
- Electrical work
Ask About Existing Duct Limitations
The contractor should explain whether the ducts can support the proposed:
- Heating airflow
- Cooling airflow
- Electric heat-kit airflow
- Furnace airflow where applicable
Ask What Happens to the Existing Furnace
The quote should identify whether it is:
- Removed
- Replaced
- Retained in a dual-fuel configuration
What Should a Ductless Heat Pump Quote Include?
- Exact indoor and outdoor model numbers
- Number of indoor units
- Room served by each indoor unit
- Indoor mounting locations
- Outdoor mounting location
- Refrigerant-line routes
- Exterior line-cover scope
- Condensate-drain routes
- Electrical circuits
- Controllers
- Wall penetrations
- Finish-repair exclusions
Ask How Closed Rooms Will Be Heated
Do not assume one living-room unit will reliably serve bedrooms behind closed doors.
Ask Whether Gravity Drainage Is Possible
Where a pump is required, its location and maintenance implications should be stated.
What Should a Multi-Zone Heat Pump Quote Include?
- Exact outdoor model
- Exact model of every indoor unit
- Certified equipment combination where applicable
- Room-level design information
- Minimum outdoor-unit capacity
- Total connected indoor capacity
- Refrigerant branch arrangement
- Individual line-set lengths
- Drainage for every indoor unit
- Controller for every zone
Ask What Happens When Only One Small Zone Calls
The system’s minimum capacity can affect cycling and comfort.
Ask About Simultaneous Heating and Cooling
Many conventional residential multi-zone systems cannot heat one room while cooling another.
Compare With Separate Single-Zone Systems
The quote should make it possible to compare:
- Installed cost
- Outdoor-unit count
- Redundancy
- Minimum capacity
- Piping complexity
What Should a Dual-Fuel Heat Pump Quote Include?
- Heat pump model
- Indoor coil
- Furnace model
- Certified match where applicable
- Duct and blower assessment
- Thermostat or dual-fuel controller
- Changeover temperature or logic
- Gas work and gas permit
- Electrical work and electrical permit
- Venting and condensate work
- Commissioning of both heat sources
Do Not Assume the Existing Furnace Can Be Reused
Its:
- Condition
- Blower
- Controls
- Coil compatibility
- Physical configuration
must be evaluated.
What Should a Full-Electric Heat Pump Quote Include?
- Heat pump capacity
- Electric heat-kit capacity
- Heat-kit stages
- Peak electrical demand
- Panel and service assessment
- Electrical circuits
- AUX Heat controls
- Emergency Heat function
- Removal of fuel-burning equipment
- Gas deactivation where applicable
Ask How Backup Capacity Was Selected
The answer should refer to the building load and heat-pump capacity rather than breaker availability alone.
Ask How Unnecessary Resistance Heating Will Be Limited
Control configuration can materially affect operating cost.
What Should a Condo or Townhouse Heat Pump Quote Include?
- Strata-approved equipment location
- Outdoor-unit dimensions and weight
- Sound information
- Mounting and vibration isolation
- Exterior line-cover route
- Wall-penetration detail
- Condensate and defrost-water plan
- Electrical source and metering
- Contractor insurance documents
- Permit responsibility
- Approval-related exclusions
Do Not Finalize the Installation Location Verbally
The approved location and route should be recorded in the quote and strata documentation.
Clarify Engineering Costs
If the strata requests structural, acoustic, envelope or electrical review, state whether that work is included.
Confirm Pre-Approval Before Purchasing Equipment
Some current condo and apartment incentive pathways require approval before equipment is purchased or installed.
Heat Pump Installation Quote Red Flags
No Site Visit
A complete replacement project is quoted without reviewing the home, equipment locations, electrical system or distribution.
No Load Calculation
The heat pump is selected from square footage or the old furnace label.
No Exact Model Numbers
The quote identifies only a brand or marketing series.
No Cold-Weather Capacity
Nominal tonnage is presented as complete winter performance.
Ductwork Is Not Discussed
The existing ducts are assumed to be suitable without assessment.
Whole-Home Coverage Is Promised Without a Room Plan
The proposal does not explain how closed bedrooms or separate floors are served.
Electrical Work Is “Extra” With No Estimate
A major required project component has no scope or allowance.
The Outdoor Location Is Undecided
Sound, airflow, drainage and line-set routing are postponed until installation day.
Permits Are Treated as Optional
Required regulated work is excluded to make the quote appear cheaper.
Commissioning Is Not Mentioned
The scope ends when the equipment powers on.
Rebate Approval Is Guaranteed
The contractor has not reviewed every homeowner, property and program requirement.
Large Deposit With Vague Cancellation Terms
The contract does not explain equipment ordering, refunds or restocking charges.
Verbal Warranty Only
The written contract does not contain the promised labour or service coverage.
Unapproved Equipment Substitution
The contract allows the installer to replace models without documenting performance differences.
Final Heat Pump Quote Checklist Before Signing
- The quote is written and property-specific.
- The project objective and areas served are clear.
- The heating and cooling loads are documented.
- Exact indoor and outdoor models are listed.
- Cold-weather and minimum capacity have been reviewed.
- Ductwork or room distribution is explained.
- Supplementary and emergency heating are defined.
- The thermostat or controller is identified.
- The complete electrical scope is included.
- Indoor and outdoor locations are agreed upon.
- Refrigerant piping and line covers are included.
- Condensate and defrost-water drainage are planned.
- Wall penetrations and finish exclusions are clear.
- Permit and approval responsibility is written.
- Incentive eligibility has been independently checked.
- Commissioning is included.
- Warranty and service terms are written.
- Payment, cancellation and change-order terms are understood.
Heat Pump Installation Quotes in Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley
Bernoulli Heating and Cooling provides free estimates for new heat pump installation and replacement projects across Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley.
An installation assessment can consider the home’s heating and cooling loads, existing equipment, duct or room-distribution design, cold-weather heat-pump capacity, electrical requirements, supplementary heating, equipment locations, controls and installation scope.
New heat pump installation and replacement estimates are free.
The current $135 diagnostic appointment charge applies to troubleshooting an existing heat pump. Repair labour, replacement parts, refrigerant and additional materials are separate.
Call 604-518-4438 or email heatingbernoulli@gmail.com.
For local heat pump installation information, review:
Heat Pump Installation Quotes: Frequently Asked Questions
What should be included in a heat pump quote?
It should include design loads, exact equipment, areas served, winter capacity, ducts or zones, electrical work, backup heat, equipment locations, piping, drainage, permits, commissioning, warranty, exclusions and total price.
Is a verbal heat pump quote acceptable?
Use a written quote for any significant installation project. Verbal discussions should be incorporated into the final written contract.
Should the quote include the heat pump model number?
Yes. It should list exact indoor and outdoor models.
Is the outdoor-unit model enough?
No. Indoor equipment, controls and supplementary heating can materially change performance.
Should the AHRI number appear on the quote?
It is useful where certified matching, efficiency or incentive eligibility depends on the exact equipment combination.
Why can one outdoor unit have several AHRI numbers?
It can be matched with different indoor coils, air handlers, furnaces or indoor heads.
Should the quote include a heat-load calculation?
Whole-home equipment selection should be supported by an appropriate heating and cooling load calculation.
Should I receive the load report?
Request the report or summary showing the loads, design temperatures and major assumptions.
Can a contractor size the heat pump from square footage?
Square footage alone does not account for insulation, leakage, windows, construction or climate.
Can the old furnace size be used?
No. The old furnace may be oversized and does not establish the home’s current heat loss.
Should cold-weather capacity appear on the quote?
The contractor should provide or explain capacity at relevant colder outdoor conditions.
Is nominal tonnage enough?
No. Heating capacity changes with outdoor temperature.
Should minimum capacity be compared?
Yes, particularly for small homes, condos and multi-zone systems.
Why does minimum capacity matter?
It affects how well the system matches small loads during mild weather without excessive cycling.
Should the quote say which rooms are served?
Yes, especially for partial-home and ductless systems.
Can one ductless head serve several bedrooms?
Not reliably when doors are closed or rooms are separated by corridors and walls.
Should retained baseboards be listed?
Yes. The proposal should identify which heaters remain and why.
Should a ducted quote include duct modifications?
Yes when modifications are needed for airflow, return capacity, leakage or balancing.
Should static pressure be checked?
It is an important assessment and commissioning measurement for many ducted retrofits.
What is a duct allowance?
It is an estimated amount included for duct work when the exact scope is not fully known. The allowance and added-work rate should be clear.
Should the quote include a filter cabinet?
It should identify the proposed filtration arrangement and any new filter cabinet.
Can a high-efficiency filter affect the quote?
Yes. A larger or improved cabinet may be needed to manage airflow resistance.
Should backup heat be included?
The quote should identify the backup or supplementary-heating strategy, even when no additional heater is proposed.
Should the electric heat-kit size be written?
Yes.
Can a large heat kit require more electrical work?
Yes. Resistance-heater capacity can substantially affect circuits and service demand.
Should a dual-fuel quote include the furnace model?
Yes, unless an existing compatible furnace is being retained and clearly identified.
Should a dual-fuel quote include the changeover temperature?
It should explain the intended changeover strategy or control logic.
Should the thermostat model be listed?
Yes.
Can a generic thermostat reduce system functions?
On some communicating or variable-capacity systems, it can reduce modulation or diagnostic functions.
Should electrical work be included in the HVAC quote?
It should either be included or clearly separated with the responsible electrical contractor and expected cost identified.
Does every heat pump need a panel upgrade?
No. The need depends on the proposed loads and the home’s available electrical capacity.
Should the electrician complete a load calculation?
The electrical capacity should be assessed using an appropriate method before adding the new loads.
Should an electrical permit be included?
The quote should state who obtains the permit and whether the fee is included.
Does a residential heat pump usually need an electrical permit in BC?
Technical Safety BC currently states that most residential installations or upgrades require an electrical permit and qualified electrical work.
Does removing a gas furnace require a gas permit?
Applicable gas work and permitting are required when a gas furnace or boiler is modified, removed or deactivated.
Should the gas contractor be identified?
Yes when the scope includes regulated gas work.
Should the quote include the outdoor-unit location?
Yes. It affects airflow, sound, drainage, piping, electrical work and service access.
Should the mounting method be listed?
Yes. The proposal should identify a pad, stand, bracket, roof support or other arrangement.
Can wall brackets cause vibration?
They can transmit vibration into some structures, so location and isolation should be evaluated.
Should sound information be included?
It is useful, especially near bedrooms, neighbours and strata properties.
Should defrost drainage be included?
Yes. Winter water should not create ice on walkways, stairs or neighbouring property.
Should the line-set route be shown?
Yes, particularly where piping is visible or crosses strata property.
Should exterior line covers be included?
The quote should state whether line covers are included, their route and any colour requirement.
Can existing refrigerant lines be reused?
Sometimes, after compatibility, size, condition, cleanliness and manufacturer requirements are assessed.
Should the quote explain what happens if existing piping cannot be reused?
Yes. It should identify possible added scope and pricing.
Should condensate drainage be shown?
Yes. The route and termination should be defined.
Should a condensate pump be listed?
Yes when one is required.
Can a condensate pump fail?
Yes. It should remain accessible and may require overflow protection.
Should drywall repair be included?
Only when the written quote says so. Many HVAC quotes exclude drywall, painting and finish repairs.
Should asbestos testing be included?
The contract should state whether hazardous-material assessment and abatement are included or excluded.
Should strata approval be included?
The quote should identify what contractor documents are provided, but the property owner usually remains responsible for securing final strata approval unless the contract states otherwise.
Does a permit replace strata approval?
No. They are separate requirements.
Should I obtain strata approval before ordering equipment?
Yes, particularly when the equipment or location is non-returnable or property approval is uncertain.
Should rebate eligibility be written into the quote?
The quote should identify the equipment and contractor information needed for the application, but final eligibility should be independently verified.
Can a contractor guarantee my rebate?
Final approval belongs to the program administrator, so an unconditional guarantee is risky unless the contractor separately assumes that financial responsibility in writing.
Should I subtract the rebate before comparing quotes?
Compare gross installed scope first, then consider only incentives for which the project appears currently eligible.
Can rebate rules change after I receive a quote?
Yes. Confirm current requirements before equipment is ordered or work begins.
Should commissioning be listed?
Yes.
Is startup the same as commissioning?
No. Commissioning includes configuration and verification of relevant system performance.
Should airflow be measured?
For ducted systems, airflow and static-pressure verification can be important parts of commissioning.
Should every ductless head be tested?
Yes.
Should the backup heater be tested?
Yes when the system includes supplementary or emergency heat.
Should dual-fuel changeover be tested?
Yes.
Should the quote include homeowner training?
It should include a handover covering controls, filters, defrost and normal operation.
Should model and serial numbers be provided after installation?
Yes.
Should warranty registration be included?
The contract should identify who completes registration and what documentation is provided.
Does a ten-year parts warranty include labour?
Not necessarily. Labour coverage should be stated separately.
Does warranty cover refrigerant?
Not necessarily.
Should labour warranty terms be written?
Yes.
Should future service-call fees be listed?
Where known, clarify whether warranty service still involves diagnostic or travel charges.
Why is one quote much cheaper?
It may use different equipment or exclude electrical work, ducts, permits, drainage, removal, warranty labour or commissioning.
Should taxes be shown?
The contract should make clear whether the total includes applicable taxes.
How large should the deposit be?
Deposit terms vary. The contract should clearly state the amount, purpose, refund conditions and cancellation consequences.
Should I pay the complete price before installation?
Use the written payment schedule and ensure it is consistent with the contract, equipment ordering and completion milestones.
What is a change order?
It is a written modification to the agreed scope, price or schedule.
Should change orders be approved before the added work?
Except for genuine urgent safety conditions, added work and cost should be documented and approved before proceeding.
What if hidden damage is found?
The contract should explain how concealed damage and unexpected conditions are handled.
Can the contractor substitute another model?
Only with review and written approval because capacity, efficiency, compatibility and incentive eligibility can change.
Should I compare at least three quotes?
Multiple detailed quotes can help identify differences in design and scope. The quality and completeness of each proposal matter more than reaching a ceremonial number.
Should the lowest quote win?
No. Select the best complete project for the home rather than the smallest initial total.
Does Bernoulli charge for a new heat pump quote?
No. New heat pump installation and replacement estimates are currently free.
Does the free estimate include repairing an existing heat pump?
No. The free estimate applies to new installation or replacement planning.
How much is diagnosis for an existing heat pump?
The current diagnostic appointment charge is $135. Repair labour, replacement parts, refrigerant and additional materials are separate.