What is the difference between a wall-mounted and a central heat pump?

In Quebec, heat pumps have become a popular choice because they combine heating and cooling in one system. But should you choose a wall-mounted heat pump or a central heat pump? Each has unique features that affect comfort, costs and efficiency. At Tran Climatisation, our experts have been helping homeowners in Montreal, Laval, the South Shore and the North Shore for over 10 years to compare these options and select the heat pump best suited to their home.

What is a wall-mounted heat pump?

Also called a mini-split (ductless heat pump):

• Consists of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor wall units.
• Does not require any air ducts.
• Quick and flexible installation.
  

What are the advantages of a wall-mounted heat pump?

• Ideal for homes without existing ductwork.
• Lower purchase and installation cost.
• Excellent energy efficiency.
• Allows you to heat or cool specific zones independently.
  

What are the limitations of a wall-mounted heat pump?

• Less discreet indoors (visible wall units).
• Less suitable for heating or cooling a large home as a whole.
  

What is a central heat pump?

• Connected to the home’s ductwork.
• Distributes warm or cool air evenly throughout every room.
• Operates with an outdoor unit and an indoor system linked to ducts.
  

What are the advantages of a central heat pump?

• Provides uniform comfort throughout the home.
• More discreet indoors (no visible wall units).
• Compatible with an electric or gas furnace (dual-energy).
  

What are the limitations for a central heat pump ?

• More expensive and complex to install.
• Requires existing ductwork or new ducts to be added.
  

What are the costs and subsidies associated with a heat pump ?

• Wall-mounted heat pump: $3,500 to $7,500 (installation included).
• Central heat pump: $8,000 to $15,000 (installation included).
• Both systems are eligible for subsidy programs (LogisVert, Chauffez Vert, Novoclimat, Hydro-Québec’s Efficient Heat Pump program).
  

How to choose between wall-mounted and central?

• No ducts: choose a wall-mounted unit.
• With ducts: central is usually the best option.
• Limited budget: wall-mounted is more affordable.
• Whole-home comfort: central ensures even distribution.
  

Tran Climatisation: your heat pump expert in Quebec

Whether you choose a wall-mounted or central heat pump, Tran Climatisation is your trusted partner for sales, installation, maintenance, cleaning and repair. Our services cover Greater Montreal, Laval, the South Shore and the North Shore. Contact us today for a free estimate and enjoy year-round comfort!