905-780 3262

Heat Pump vs Window Heat Pump: Which is Best for Toronto Homes?

Toronto’s mix of historic houses, condos, and rental apartments means homeowners often need to weigh different heating and cooling options. Two energy-saving solutions on the market are the traditional heat pump (ducted or ductless mini-split) and the newer window heat pump. What’s the difference—and which is better for your comfort, budget, and long-term efficiency? Here’s the expert breakdown from Temperature Care.

How Do They Work?

Traditional Heat Pump (Ducted or Ductless Mini-Split):

Uses an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor units
Provides both heating and cooling by transferring heat in or out of your home
Can serve your whole home (ducted) or specific rooms (ductless mini-splits)

Window Heat Pump:

Looks and installs like a traditional window AC, but provides both heating and cooling
Compact, self-contained unit that fits in a standard window or wall sleeve
Ideal for condos, apartments, or rooms without central HVAC

Learn more: ENERGY STAR – Window Heat Pumps

Efficiency & Cost Comparison

Feature	Traditional Heat Pump	Window Heat Pump
Heating & Cooling	Yes (very efficient)	Yes (efficient, for one room)
Area Served	Whole home or multiple zones	Single room or small space
Noise Level	Quiet (esp. mini-splits)	Can be noisier
Installation	Professional, permanent	DIY, removable
Aesthetics	Sleek, wall/ceiling units	Blocks window, visible cord
Operating Cost	Lower (per sq ft)	Low for one room, adds up if used widely
Rebates	Generous, available	Some available, fewer options

Traditional heat pumps are best for whole-home solutions and long-term savings.
Window heat pumps are perfect for renters, condos, or when you need flexible heating/cooling in a single room.

Compare: Clean Energy Canada – Heat Pump Savings

Comfort & Air Quality

Traditional heat pumps:
- Deliver even, quiet comfort; filter air for better health
- Can heat and cool multiple rooms at once
Window heat pumps:
- Great for spot comfort but limited to the installed room
- Somewhat noisier and may bring in more outside dust/pollution

Installation & Rebates

Traditional heat pumps:
- Require professional installation (can be ducted or ductless)
- Eligible for generous rebates:
  - Canada Greener Homes Grant
  - Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate Plus
Window heat pumps:
- DIY install in minutes; remove when not needed
- May qualify for some energy incentives

See Temperature Care’s installation services

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a traditional heat pump for year-round, whole-home comfort and maximum energy savings.
Choose a window heat pump for condos, rentals, or supplementing heating/cooling in a single room.