Heat pumps

Steps to getting a permit for a heat pump

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  Step 1: Review the noise impact of heat pumps and installation guide

  Noise by-law: heat pump fans and compressors produce noise which can disturb neighbours if not located or installed properly

  Read the 2-page Heat Pumps and Noise: A Neighborly Installation Guide PDF file (576 KB)

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  Step 2: Review the bulletins for your building type and apply for a permit

  Installing a heat pump may require different permits depending on your specific circumstances. 

  If you are constructing a new building, your heating system will be reviewed as part of your building and development permit application. Find out more

  A. Review bulletin related to building type

  To determine what permits and documents you will need, refer to the administrative bulletins and guidance documents related to your building type:

  • Ground-oriented homes including 1&2 family: Heat pumps for ground-oriented dwellings PDF file (87 KB)
  • Multi-family buildings (balcony installations): Air conditioning and/or heat pump units on balconies PDF file (161 KB)

  B. Apply for permit

  • Some projects allow for online applications (see bulletins)
  • All other projects, visit the Development and Building Services Centre to review your project and determine the type of permits or reviews you will need

About heat pumps

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  What is a heat pump?

  A heat pump is an appliance that moves heat in and out of your home using electricity. A single system can both heat and cool your house year-round and there is a wide range of systems to supplement or fully replace your existing heating or hot water systems.

  • Central heat pumps External website, opens in new tab
  • Ductless mini-splits External website, opens in new tab
  • Heat pump hot water tanks External website, opens in new tab

  A heat pump requires an exterior condenser unit that can be installed on the ground or mounted on a wall. The heated or cooled air can be transferred inside the house either in ducts or with ‘ductless’ systems. 

  • Watch our webinar to learn more about installing a heat pump External website, opens in new tab
  • Learn more about the role of heat pumps in green home retrofits
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  Benefits of a heat pump

  The electrical grid in British Columbia is over 92% renewable energy, so switching to a heat pump from fossil-fuel systems can significantly reduce a home’s carbon emissions. 

  Recent technology improvements have allowed for:

  • Active air filtration and better indoor air quality
  • High efficiencies of 300% and higher
  • Quieter fans and condensers
  • Smaller and more streamlined units
  • More cost effective and flexible solutions

  Find more answers to commonly asked questions: BetterHomesBC heat pump FAQ External website, opens in new tab

Industry resources

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  Heat pump installer training

  As a Climate Emergency Response action, gas fired heating and hot water systems will no longer be permitted in most new construction of 1-3 storey residential homes as of January 1, 2022. We are preparing training for compliant systems focused on heat pumps. 

  • Register for training - Review the summary on the HVAC information card PDF file (588 KB) at your local mechanical wholesalers and contractors
  • Get training details - Review the heat pump installation training FAQ PDF file (163 KB)
  • Join the mailing list for updates on registration dates and further information, email: cleanenergy@vancouver.ca

  Other courses available:

  • TECA quality first heat loss or heat gain course External website, opens in new tab
  • HRAI residential heat loss or heat gain calculation course External website, opens in new tab External website, opens in new tab
  • BCIT heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration course
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  Heat pump guides

  Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) tools for air source heat pump sizing and selection External website, opens in new tab

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