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If you’re heating your Toronto home with an electric boiler, you might be wondering if switching to a heat pump makes sense. Both rely on electricity, but the way they work—and the efficiency they deliver—are very different. Here’s a detailed comparison from Temperature Care.
How Do They Work?
Electric Boiler:
- Uses electric resistance to heat water
- Sends hot water or steam through radiators, baseboards, or in-floor heating
- Provides only heating—no cooling
Heat Pump (Air-Source):
- Transfers heat between your home and the outdoors using electricity
- Provides both heating in winter and cooling in summer
- Can be ducted (whole home) or ductless (mini-split for specific rooms)
Learn more: ENERGY STAR – Heat Pumps
Efficiency & Cost Comparison
| Feature | Heat Pump | Electric Boiler |
|---|---|---|
| Heating & Cooling | Yes (year-round) | Heating only |
| Efficiency | 200–350% (COP 2–3.5) | 100% (resistance heating) |
| Operating Cost | Much lower long-term | High (hydro bills add up) |
| Air Quality | Humidity control + filters | N/A |
| Rebates | Major, available | Limited |
- Heat pumps deliver 2–3x more heat per unit of electricity than boilers.
- Electric boilers are simple but costly to run for whole-home heating in Toronto.
Compare: Clean Energy Canada – Why Switch to a Heat Pump
Comfort & Air Quality
- Heat pumps: Provide steady, even warmth and cooling, plus air filtration and humidity control.
- Electric boilers: Deliver silent, radiant heat—comfortable in winter but no cooling and no air filtration.
Environmental Impact
- Heat pumps: Very low emissions, especially in Ontario with its clean electricity grid.
- Electric boilers: No direct emissions but waste more electricity to achieve the same comfort.
US DOE: Electric Heating Systems
Installation & Rebates
- Heat pumps:
- Require professional installation
- Eligible for major rebates:
- Electric boilers:
- Easy replacement in homes already using hydronic systems
- Not typically eligible for rebates
See Temperature Care’s heating services
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose a heat pump if you want energy savings, rebates, and year-round comfort.
- Choose an electric boiler only if you prefer radiant heating, already have hydronic infrastructure, and don’t need cooling.
- Some homeowners use a hybrid system: a heat pump for most days and an electric boiler as backup.
Why Trust Temperature Care?
- Toronto’s specialists in both electric boilers and heat pumps
- Honest, customized recommendations
- Full rebate support and professional installation
Contact Us Today
📞 905-780-3262
Book your consultation online
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