Mini-split
Ductless heat pump
A ductless heat pump (mini-split) connects an outdoor unit to one or more slim indoor units mounted on the wall or ceiling. It's the go-to option for homes with radiators or baseboard heaters, additions, finished basements, or rooms that are always too hot or too cold.
How it works
Outdoor unit collects heat
Just like a central heat pump, it pulls heat from outdoor air using refrigerant.
A small line set runs inside
Refrigerant lines pass through a small hole in the wall to each indoor unit.
Each room is its own zone
Every indoor unit has its own settings, so you heat or cool only the rooms you use.
Is it right for your home?
Great for
- Homes without ductwork (radiators, baseboards)
- Additions, basements, garages and problem rooms
- Replacing window AC units
- Room-by-room temperature control
Think twice if
- Homes where you want no visible indoor units
- Many small rooms that would each need their own unit
Pros
- No ductwork needed — minimal renovation
- Zoned comfort, room by room
- High efficiency with no duct losses
- Eligible for Home Renovation Savings rebates
Cons
- Indoor units are visible on walls or ceilings
- Whole-home coverage may need several indoor units
- Filters in each unit need regular cleaning
Single-zone vs multi-zone
A single-zone system pairs one outdoor unit with one indoor unit — ideal for one room or open area. A multi-zone system connects several indoor units to one outdoor unit, so different rooms can have different temperatures. Your installer recommends the layout based on your floor plan and heat loss.
Ductless vs central
Both are heat pumps and both qualify for rebates. The difference is how the air gets to your rooms.
| Feature | Ductless heat pump | Ducted heat pump |
|---|---|---|
| Ductwork | Not needed | Uses existing ducts |
| Indoor units | Wall or ceiling units in each zone | Hidden — air comes through existing vents |
| Temperature control | Room by room (zones) | Whole home, one thermostat (zoning optional) |
| Best for | No ducts, additions, problem rooms | Homes with good existing ducts |
| Rebate | Eligible (same per-ton rates) | Eligible |
Home Renovation Savings
Qualifying cold-climate ductless heat pumps earn a rebate per ton of heating capacity. Pre-approval is required before installation, and the model must be on Natural Resources Canada's qualified products list.
What affects the cost
- Number of indoor units (zones)
- Line-set lengths and wall routing
- Heating capacity needed for each area
- Electrical work
- Indoor unit style (wall, ceiling cassette, ducted mini)
Every home is different — installers quote after a site visit and heat-loss calculation.
Keeping it running well
- Rinse indoor unit filters monthly during heavy use
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of snow and debris
- Annual professional cleaning of coils and drains
Common questions
Can ductless heat my whole house?
Yes, with enough indoor units placed well — especially in open-concept homes. Your installer designs the zones from a heat-loss calculation.
How big is the hole in the wall?
Usually a few centimetres — enough for the refrigerant lines, drain and cable.
Does ductless qualify for rebates?
Yes — qualifying cold-climate models are eligible for Home Renovation Savings, with the same per-ton rates as central heat pumps. Pre-approval is required before installation.