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Heat Pump vs Hydronic Heating: Which Is Best for Toronto Homes?

Toronto homeowners often consider hydronic heating (using hot water through pipes and radiators or in-floor systems) or modern heat pumps. Both provide comfort, but they work differently and come with unique pros and cons. At Temperature Care, we help you understand which option suits your home best.

How Do They Work?

Hydronic Heating (Boiler System):

A boiler heats water using gas, oil, or electricity
Hot water circulates through radiators, baseboards, or underfloor tubing
Produces steady, radiant warmth but no cooling

Heat Pump (Air-Source):

Transfers heat from outside to inside (and reverses for cooling in summer)
Runs on electricity, highly efficient
Provides heating and cooling in one system

Learn more: ENERGY STAR – Heat Pumps

Efficiency & Cost Comparison

Feature	Heat Pump	Hydronic Heating
Heating & Cooling	Yes (dual function)	Heating only
Efficiency	200–350% (COP 2–3.5)	80–95% (modern boilers)
Operating Cost	Lower (hydro-efficient)	Moderate to high (fuel costs vary)
Comfort	Even warmth, humidity control	Radiant, draft-free warmth
Rebates	Substantial, available	Limited (boilers rarely qualify)

Heat pumps save significantly on bills thanks to high efficiency.
Hydronic heating feels luxurious, especially in-floor systems, but running costs can be high.

Compare: Clean Energy Canada – Heat Pump Savings

Comfort & Air Quality

Heat pumps:
- Even heating and cooling, with built-in filtration
- Manage indoor humidity for year-round comfort
Hydronic heating:
- Silent, radiant warmth—very comfortable in winter
- No air circulation (good for allergies), but no cooling in summer

Environmental Impact

Heat pumps: Ultra-low emissions, especially in Ontario’s clean electricity grid.
Hydronic heating: Depends on boiler fuel—gas and oil boilers release carbon emissions, while electric boilers consume more power.

US DOE – Heating Systems

Installation & Rebates

Heat pumps:
- Can be installed ducted or ductless
- Eligible for major rebates:
  - Canada Greener Homes Grant
  - Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate Plus
Hydronic systems:
- Ideal for new builds or major renovations
- Rarely eligible for rebates unless paired with renewable energy

See Temperature Care’s heating & cooling services

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a heat pump for all-in-one heating and cooling, energy savings, and rebates.
Choose hydronic heating if you want the luxurious feel of radiant warmth and already have a boiler system in place.
For the best of both worlds, some homeowners pair a heat pump with hydronic in-floor heating for maximum comfort.