A ducted heat pump uses existing home ductwork to deliver both heating and cooling from a single system — replacing both the furnace and the air conditioner simultaneously in a Greater Vancouver home.
HeatLand Heating & Cooling installs and services heat pumps across Greater Vancouver.
Call (604) 330-3812 Get a Free QuoteWhat This Means
Where ductless mini-splits are appropriate for homes without existing ducts, a ducted heat pump is the right choice for homes with a forced-air furnace and existing duct system. It delivers conditioned air through the same vents already in place.
Common Causes
- A ducted heat pump consists of an outdoor compressor unit and an indoor air handler (replacing the furnace) connected to existing ductwork
- Ductwork adequacy matters — older duct systems may need modifications to handle heat pump airflow requirements
- A variable-speed ducted heat pump offers excellent efficiency and quiet operation
What Homeowners Can Check Safely
- Check that all supply and return vents are open and unobstructed before and after installation
- Regularly replace the air filter — ducted systems recirculate all home air through the filter
When to Call a Licensed Technician
Heat pumps contain refrigerant under pressure, electrical components at line voltage, and control systems that require specialized diagnostic tools. Do not open refrigerant circuits, bypass safety switches, or attempt to recharge refrigerant without proper certification.
- Duct system assessment — static pressure testing to determine if existing ducts are adequate for heat pump airflow
- Duct sealing to reduce distribution losses before or concurrent with heat pump installation
- Correct heat pump air handler sizing for the duct system
- Supplementary electric heat strip sizing for backup heat during cold snaps
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a ducted heat pump replace my gas furnace in Greater Vancouver?
Yes. A ducted heat pump air handler installs in place of the existing furnace, using the same duct connections. The furnace is removed and the heat pump air handler takes its place. Most Greater Vancouver homes with a natural gas furnace and central air conditioning are good candidates for this upgrade. Rebates are available under CleanBC for switching from gas furnace to heat pump.
What is a heat pump air handler?
The air handler is the indoor component of a ducted heat pump — it contains the indoor coil (evaporator in cooling, condenser in heating), the electric backup heat strips, and the blower fan. It connects to the existing duct system just like a furnace does, and to the outdoor unit via refrigerant lines. Some air handlers also include the thermostat controls; others work with existing or new smart thermostats.
HeatLand services and installs heat pumps throughout Greater Vancouver. Call for expert diagnosis.
Call (604) 330-3812 Book a Heat Pump Check