Dual Fuel vs. All-Electric Heat Pump in BC
Heat Pumps · 7 min read · 2026-10-06
A dual-fuel system keeps a gas furnace as backup, while an all-electric heat pump relies on electric heating design and equipment selection.
Two different heating approaches
For the announced dual-fuel rebate, the existing primary gas furnace must be at least 15 years old.
A dual-fuel system combines a heat pump with a new gas furnace. An all-electric heat-pump system uses electric heat-pump equipment as the primary heating approach and may have electric backup where the design requires it. The appropriate option depends on the home, existing fuel, ductwork, comfort goals and available programs.
What the announced dual-fuel rebate is for
FortisBC announced a dual-fuel rebate return for eligible installations after October 15, 2026. The announced FortisBC residential rebate maximum is up to $4,000 and the announced FortisBC income-qualified rebate maximum is up to $8,000. The program requires replacement of an existing primary gas furnace that is at least 15 years old, among other requirements.
Compare the project checks
- Dual fuel: verify an AHRI-certified matched heat pump, indoor unit and furnace combination.
- Dual fuel: confirm the regional switchover limit, 5°C or lower in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island.
- All electric: verify the applicable heat-pump program and equipment requirements directly with the program administrator.
- Either approach: complete an appropriate heat-load calculation and confirm permits, electrical capacity, ductwork and installation details.
Do not assume programs combine
Program rules, funding, overlap restrictions and eligibility can change. A rebate amount is not a project estimate and does not confirm what a homeowner will receive. Review the current terms before signing a contract.
Explore heat pump services, heat pump installation, heat pump installation in Surrey, or use the rebate tool to organize your project questions.
Program information can change. Review the current FortisBC rebates page and the FortisBC income-qualification-code information before buying equipment or relying on an amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between dual fuel and all electric?
Dual fuel combines a heat pump with a gas furnace under coordinated controls. An all-electric heat-pump system uses electric heat-pump equipment as the primary heating approach.
What announced dual-fuel amounts should homeowners know?
FortisBC announced up to $4,000 for the residential path and up to $8,000 for the income-qualified path for eligible installations after October 15, 2026.
Can a homeowner assume different rebates will combine?
No. Program overlap, funding and eligibility rules must be checked with the relevant program administrator before a project proceeds.
Does a dual-fuel project need a heat-load calculation?
Yes. The announced contractor requirements include the applicable CSA P280-12 heat-load calculation and supporting documentation.