905-780 3262

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

Toronto homeowners, especially those living in older houses with radiator systems, often ask whether switching to a heat pump is worth it. Radiator heating has been reliable for decades, but modern heat pumps offer year-round efficiency. Let’s compare both options with insights from Temperature Care.

How Do They Work?

Radiator Heating (Boiler System):

A central boiler heats water (or steam) using gas, oil, or electricity
The hot water circulates through pipes into cast iron or baseboard radiators
Provides only heating—not cooling

Heat Pump (Air-Source):

Uses electricity to transfer heat from outdoors to indoors (works in reverse for cooling)
Can be ducted (whole-home) or ductless (mini-split for zoned rooms)
Provides both heating and cooling efficiently

Learn more: ENERGY STAR – Heat Pumps

Efficiency & Cost Comparison

Feature	Heat Pump	Radiator Heating
Heating & Cooling	Yes (year-round)	Heating only
Efficiency	200–350% (COP 2–3.5)	80–95% (modern boilers)
Operating Cost	Lower long-term	Moderate to high (fuel costs vary)
Air Quality	Filters, humidity control	No filtration, silent radiant
Rebates	Substantial, available	Limited

Heat pumps can slash utility bills thanks to high efficiency.
Radiators provide cozy, silent warmth but can be expensive to run, especially with oil or electric boilers.

Compare: Clean Energy Canada – Heat Pump Benefits

Comfort & Air Quality

Heat pumps:
- Maintain steady temperatures in both summer and winter
- Improve indoor air quality with built-in filtration
- Humidity control prevents dryness common with radiators
Radiator systems:
- Deliver even, draft-free warmth—many Toronto homeowners love the cozy feel
- Absolutely silent
- No cooling in summer

Installation & Rebates

Heat pumps:
- Require professional installation (ducted or ductless)
- Eligible for major rebates:
  - Canada Greener Homes Grant
  - Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate Plus
Radiator systems:
- Best installed during new builds or major renovations
- Limited rebate opportunities for boiler upgrades

See Temperature Care’s services

Environmental Impact

Heat pumps: Very low emissions, especially in Ontario’s clean electricity grid.
Radiators: Dependent on boiler fuel—gas and oil boilers create carbon emissions.

US DOE: Home Heating Systems

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a heat pump if you want year-round comfort, rebates, and lower bills.
Stick with radiator heating if you love the radiant feel and are planning only small upgrades.
Hybrid options exist—pairing a heat pump with a hydronic boiler for maximum flexibility.