Heat Pump Installation Guide in BC: Planning a Dual Fuel System
Heat Pumps · 7 min read · 2026-10-06
Plan a dual-fuel heat-pump installation in BC with a heat-load calculation, matched-system documentation, qualified contractor and FortisBC program checks.
Plan the full system before installation
For the announced dual-fuel rebate, the existing primary gas furnace must be at least 15 years old.
A dual-fuel installation is more than adding a heat pump beside an existing furnace. The heat pump, indoor unit, furnace and controls must be planned together. For a potential FortisBC dual-fuel rebate project, confirm the equipment match and program requirements before the work starts.
The announced FortisBC program
FortisBC announced that eligible dual-fuel heating-system installations after October 15, 2026 may have a residential maximum of up to $4,000 or an income-qualified maximum of up to $8,000. These are announced maximum amounts. They do not guarantee an individual rebate or determine which system is right for a home.
Installation planning sequence
- Assess the existing primary gas furnace, age, ductwork, electrical service and site conditions.
- Complete the applicable CSA P280-12 heat-load calculation.
- Select an AHRI-certified matched reference for the heat pump, indoor unit and furnace.
- Set the regional switchover design point: 5°C or lower in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island, or 2°C in the Southern Interior and Northern B.C.
- Use a Technical Safety BC-licensed gas contractor that is an HPCN member in good standing and trained for the program.
- Complete DSMAlly commissioning and retain invoice and supporting documents.
After installation
Keep the project records together and use the current FortisBC application instructions. Re-check program terms and deadlines at the time of application because programs can change.
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 should be checked before a dual-fuel heat-pump installation?
Check the existing primary gas furnace age, the CSA P280-12 heat-load calculation, the AHRI-certified matched reference, regional switchover setting and contractor qualifications.
What switchover setting applies to the Lower Mainland?
For the announced FortisBC dual-fuel rebate, the maximum switchover setting is 5°C or lower in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island.
What announced rebate amounts apply to a dual-fuel project?
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.
Why should project records be retained?
The announced process includes commissioning, invoices and supporting documentation. FortisBC may require current program documents to assess an application.