• Posted by: Support
• 0 Comments

Upgrading your home’s cooling and heating is a big decision, but one that can pay off in comfort and savings. Whether your old air conditioner is on its last legs or you’re curious about efficient heat pump installation near me, choosing the right system and contractor is crucial. Ottawa’s climate ranges from hot, humid summers to freezing winters, so you need solutions that can handle both. In this guide, we’ll focus on air conditioner and heat pump installations. From covering the benefits of new high-efficiency systems, what to expect during the installation process, and tips for selecting a reliable Canadian contractor. With the right information (and the right team on your side), you can enjoy a smooth install and years of worry-free comfort.

Benefits of Upgrading to a New AC or Heat Pump

If you have an older AC or furnace, or if you’re considering adding a heat pump, there are compelling reasons to upgrade beyond just “because something broke.” Modern HVAC systems offer improved energy efficiency, cost savings, and environmental benefits that older equipment simply can’t match.

• Significant energy savings: Cooling technology has advanced rapidly. For example, air conditioners are rated by SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) – the higher the SEER, the less electricity needed to cool your home. Two decades ago, a 10 SEER was common; today, high-efficiency AC units reach 18–25 SEER. According to industry calculations, going from a 10 SEER AC to a modern 16 SEER unit could cut your cooling costs by around 38% . Natural Resources Canada notes that replacing an air conditioner over 10 years old can easily save you upwards of 30% on energy (and on your utility bills). Over the lifespan of the unit, those savings really add up.
  
• Lower heating costs with heat pumps: Heat pumps are a game-changer for efficient heating. Unlike a furnace that burns fuel, a heat pump moves heat from outdoors to indoors (and vice versa in summer). Because of this, heat pumps can deliver 2 to 5 times more heat energy than the electricity they consume . In fact, heat pumps can be 200–540% efficient, whereas even the best gas furnaces top out below 100% . This means switching to a heat pump can reduce your heating costs substantially, especially if you currently use an electric furnace or baseboards. Many Ottawa homeowners use heat pumps for the bulk of their heating needs and keep a gas furnace or electric resistance as a backup for the coldest days – dramatically cutting fuel use and costs.
  
• Year-round comfort from one system: A heat pump doubles as an air conditioner in summer. By upgrading to a heat pump system, you get efficient cooling and heating in one unit. This simplifies your home’s HVAC setup and can be more cost-effective than maintaining separate AC and heating systems. Plus, today’s cold-climate heat pumps are built for places like Ottawa – they remain efficient even in subzero temperatures . Some models can operate at -25°C (with over 200% efficiency at -18°C!) , ensuring you stay warm through Canadian winters without a dramatic jump in energy usage.
  
• Improved comfort and air quality: New systems don’t just use less energy; they also do a better job of keeping you comfortable. A properly sized, modern AC will remove humidity and cool your home more evenly, eliminating hot spots. Heat pumps provide gentle, continuous heat without the sudden blasts of hot air furnaces can produce. Many new units come with options for advanced filtration or humidity control, which can improve your indoor air quality and help with allergies. Overall, you’ll notice a difference in consistent temperatures and cleaner air.
  
• Environmental benefits: Using less energy means cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions – especially if you’re switching from oil or gas heating to an electric heat pump. Buildings are a major source of emissions in Canada , so electrifying your heating with efficient heat pumps is a key strategy to reduce your home’s carbon footprint. According to research, cold-climate heat pumps can reduce GHG emissions by over 95% in many scenarios when replacing fossil fuel heating . Even if you keep a gas furnace for backup, every bit of heating handled by the heat pump is fuel you’re not burning. It’s a great way to make your home more eco-friendly without sacrificing comfort.
  
• Potential rebates and future savings: Both the federal and Ontario governments have been encouraging heat pump and high-efficiency HVAC adoption through rebates (such as the Canada Greener Homes Grant) and incentives. While programs change over time, it’s worth checking what’s available when you plan your installation – you could save thousands upfront on the cost of a new heat pump or AC through rebates. Additionally, choosing an ENERGY STAR® certified unit can bring long-term savings; these models meet strict efficiency guidelines (for instance, ENERGY STAR air-source heat pumps use about 5% less energy on average than standard models ). Over a decade or more of operation, that efficiency pays back in lower bills.
  

What to Expect During an HVAC Installation

If you’ve never gone through a major HVAC installation before, it can seem daunting. However, a professional installer will guide you through each step. Here’s what a typical AC or heat pump installation process looks like with a reputable contractor:

1. In-Home Evaluation and Quote: First, the contractor will schedule a consultation at your home. They’ll assess your current system (if you have one), measure your home’s size and layout, and discuss your comfort needs and budget. A good installer doesn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach – they will perform calculations (sometimes called a load calculation or heat loss/heat gain analysis) to determine the right capacity for your new system. “A bigger system isn’t always better,” as Energy Star advises; the unit must be properly sized to your home’s requirements . This evaluation is crucial to make sure you get a system that isn’t too small (which would struggle to keep up) or too large (which would short-cycle and waste energy). After this assessment, you’ll receive a clear, written estimate for recommended equipment and the installation cost. Reputable companies will also discuss any available financing or rebates, so you know your options.
   
2. Choosing Your System: You might have a choice of systems at different efficiency levels or price points. For example, Climate Keepers offers high-efficiency central AC units from top brands, as well as ductless mini-split heat pumps for homes without ductwork or for supplemental cooling/heating in specific areas. We’ll help you compare features like efficiency ratings (SEER/HSPF), capacity, warranty terms, and any smart technology or add-ons (like a smart thermostat). Take this opportunity to ask questions – a quality contractor will happily explain why they recommend a certain model and how it will perform in Ottawa’s climate.
   
3. Scheduling the Installation: Once you’ve approved the quote and chosen a system, we’ll set an install date. Typically, the installation of a new air conditioner or heat pump can be done in a single day (for straightforward replacements) or two days for more complex jobs (like adding new ductwork or removing old equipment). We strive to work around your schedule for minimal disruption. If your old system has failed completely, we prioritize getting you cooling or heating again as soon as possible.
   
4. Professional Installation Day: On installation day, expect a team of trained technicians to arrive on time with all the equipment needed. They will start by protecting your home (laying down drop cloths, etc.) and carefully removing the old unit (if there is one) for proper disposal. Then, the new AC or heat pump is positioned and installed. This can involve placing an outdoor condenser unit, setting or hanging an indoor evaporator/air handler, connecting refrigerant lines, and hooking up electrical and thermostat controls. Quality installers will also ensure your ductwork is compatible and leak-free (sealing any gaps) or properly connect a new ductless system’s air handlers. All connections – electrical, plumbing (condensate drains), and refrigeration – are done to code and manufacturer specifications. The team will work efficiently but also take care to do things right (for example, vacuuming the refrigerant lines to remove moisture, calibrating the thermostat, etc.). Climate Keepers’ technicians are licensed & certified, so every step meets safety and quality standards.
   
5. Testing and Walkthrough: After installation, the crew thoroughly tests the new system. They will run the air conditioner or heat pump through its paces, checking that it cools and heats properly, that pressures and voltages are in the correct range, and that there are no leaks or unusual noises. We also verify things like airflow at the vents and that the thermostat communication is seamless. Once satisfied, we’ll walk you through the system. This homeowner orientation is important – we show you how to change filters, how to operate the thermostat or any new features, and go over the warranty and maintenance schedule. Feel free to ask questions at this stage; we want you to be completely comfortable with your new HVAC setup.
   
6. Final Cleanup and Follow-Up: A professional team will leave your home as clean as they found it. We remove the old equipment and all debris. You’ll receive any necessary documentation, manuals, and warranty papers. At Climate Keepers, we also make sure you know how to reach us if any questions or issues arise after installation. We stand by our work with a satisfaction guarantee – if there’s any problem, we’ll be there to fix it. Additionally, we often schedule a follow-up call or visit after a few weeks to ensure everything is working perfectly and you’re happy with your new system.
   

Overall, the process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free for the homeowner. We know having technicians working in your home can be disruptive, so we prioritize professionalism, clear communication, and respect for your space and time. Our goal is to turn what could be a stressful event – living without AC on a hot day or coordinating a big install – into a positive experience where you feel informed and taken care of every step of the way.

Tips for Choosing a Reliable HVAC Contractor

A heating or cooling system is a major investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency. Equally important to buying the right equipment is choosing the right contractor to install it. Even the best furnace or heat pump will underperform if it’s not installed correctly. So how do you find a company you can trust with this job? Here are some tips to ensure you’re hiring a reliable, qualified HVAC contractor in Canada:

• Look for proper licensing and experience: HVAC work in Ontario should be done by licensed technicians (for example, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics require special certification). Make sure any contractor you consider is fully licensed and insured – this protects you in case of accidents and ensures the work meets local code. Beyond paperwork, ask how long they’ve been in business and if they have experience with the specific system you want (e.g., installing ductless heat pumps). Climate Keepers, for instance, is a Canadian-owned company with years of experience in Ottawa HVAC installations and service, so we’re very familiar with what homes in this area need.
  
• Ask for referrals and read reviews: A reputable contractor should be able to provide references from past customers. Don’t hesitate to ask friends, neighbors, or coworkers if they have an HVAC company they trust. Online reviews are useful too – look for consistent praise for things like professionalism, punctuality, and quality of work. If a company has many loyal, repeat customers, that’s a great sign. Energy Star recommends asking references whether the contractor’s work was completed on time and within budget . Doing this homework will give you peace of mind that you’re choosing someone with a proven track record.
  
• Get a detailed, written quote: When comparing HVAC installation quotes, make sure each one includes the same scope of work so you can compare apples to apples. A quality contractor will provide a written, itemized estimate that spells out the equipment model numbers, warranty information, and all costs (equipment, labor, any extras) . Be cautious of any quote that is significantly lower than others – if it’s cheap due to subpar equipment or shortcuts in installation, you could pay more down the road in higher bills or problems. The quote process is also a good test of the contractor’s knowledge and communication: did they answer your questions and explain the options clearly? Transparency now is indicative of reliable service later.
  
• Check for value-added services: Installation is one part of the relationship – after that, you may need maintenance or support. Does the contractor offer maintenance plans or after-installation service? Do they handle warranty repairs? Climate Keepers, for example, provides ongoing support and maintenance packages to keep your system running efficiently long after the initial install. We also help customers navigate rebates and will fill out any documentation needed for energy-efficiency incentive programs, which can be a big help. Choosing a contractor who will partner with you over the long term, rather than one who just vanishes after installation, is definitely preferable.
  
• Prioritize professionalism and knowledge: When you meet or speak with a potential installer, note their professionalism. Are they on time, courteous, and attentive? A good contractor should also be able to answer technical questions in an accessible way – you shouldn’t feel talked down to or overwhelmed with jargon. For instance, if you ask about why a certain size of heat pump is recommended, they should explain it in terms of your home’s square footage and insulation, not just throw numbers at you. This approachable, informative style is something we pride ourselves on at Climate Keepers. We want our customers to feel confident and informed about their choices. Remember, you’re not just buying a piece of equipment – you’re buying the expertise of the team installing it.
  
• Look for affiliations or certifications: Membership in professional organizations (like HRAI – Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada) or certifications (like being an authorized dealer for a major HVAC brand, or having technicians with NATE certification) can indicate a higher level of training and commitment to best practices. Also, keep an eye out for ENERGY STAR Retailer/Contractor designations or other credentials that show the company stays up to date with energy-efficient technologies.
  

By taking these steps, you’ll greatly increase the chances of a smooth installation and a system that performs to its full potential. Poor installation can reduce a system’s efficiency by 30% or more, according to some studies , so who you hire truly makes a difference. It’s worth the time to choose wisely.

Ready for Year-Round Comfort? Climate Keepers Can Help

Investing in a new air conditioner or heat pump is an investment in your home’s future – and you deserve the confidence that it’s done right. With the benefits of modern, efficient equipment and a professional installation, you can look forward to lower energy bills, improved comfort, and fewer worries about breakdowns when extreme weather hits. Ottawa homeowners have a great opportunity now to upgrade, especially with various incentives encouraging efficient electric heating and cooling.

Strong Call to Action: If you’re considering an HVAC upgrade or even if you need guidance on whether to repair or replace, reach out to Climate Keepers for honest, expert advice. As a locally owned company, we take pride in treating our customers like neighbours. We offer free in-home consultations and no-obligation quotes so you can make an informed decision. From helping you find the perfect furnace install near me solution to providing heat pump installation that suits your needs, our certified team is dedicated to quality every step of the way.

Don’t endure another sweltering summer day or shiver through a winter night with an old, inefficient system. Contact Climate Keepers today to schedule your consultation or to get a free estimate on AC or heat pump installation. We’ll guide you through the process with a friendly, professional touch and ensure your home stays cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. With top-notch equipment, skilled installation, and Canadian-friendly service, we make upgrading your HVAC easy and rewarding. Trust Climate Keepers to keep your climate – and your comfort – exactly where you want it, all year long. Stay cool, stay warm, and save energy – we’ve got you covered!