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Heat Pump vs Ducted AC: Which Cooling System Is Best for Toronto Homes?

When the summer heat strikes in Toronto, having a reliable, efficient cooling system is essential. Two popular options are the heat pump and the ducted air conditioner (AC). At Temperature Care, we help you compare both systems so you can make the best choice for comfort, savings, and your home’s needs.

How Do They Work?

Ducted Air Conditioner (Central AC):

Uses a compressor to remove heat from your home and send it outside, cooling the indoor air.
Distributes cool air through ducts and vents.
Only provides cooling—does not heat your home.

Heat Pump:

Functions as both a high-efficiency air conditioner and a heater.
In cooling mode, works just like a central AC—removing heat from your home and sending it outdoors.
In winter, reverses operation to bring heat in from outside, providing year-round comfort.

Learn more: ENERGY STAR – Heat Pumps vs AC

Efficiency and Cost Comparison

Feature	Heat Pump	Ducted AC
Cooling	Yes	Yes
Heating	Yes (efficiently)	No
Energy Use	Lower overall (year-round)	Higher (plus you’ll need a furnace for heat)
Upfront Cost	Higher (rebates available)	Lower
Rebates	Significant for heat pumps	Limited for AC only

Heat pumps may cost more to install, but save money on your utility bills and qualify for major government rebates.
Canada Greener Homes Grant
Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate Plus

Year-Round Comfort

Heat pumps give you both heating and cooling in one system—ideal for Toronto’s variable seasons.
Central AC only provides cooling, so you’ll still need a separate furnace or heating system for winter.

Environmental Impact

Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat, resulting in much lower carbon emissions (especially in Ontario with its clean grid).
Central AC also runs on electricity but doesn’t contribute to your winter heating needs, leading to more overall energy consumption.

Compare: Clean Energy Canada – Why Switch to a Heat Pump?

Comfort and Air Quality

Both systems can be paired with advanced air filtration, humidifiers, and smart thermostats.
Heat pumps tend to offer gentler, more consistent comfort and better humidity control.

Installation Considerations

If your home already has ducts, either system can be installed relatively easily.
If you’re considering upgrading both your AC and furnace, a heat pump is often the smarter, more future-proof investment.

See: Temperature Care’s installation services

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a heat pump if you want year-round savings, a single high-efficiency system, and access to rebates.
Choose ducted AC if you’re happy with your current heating system and just need to replace the cooling.