Heat pumps come in two primary configurations for residential use: ductless mini-splits and ducted central systems. Both use the same refrigerant-cycle technology. The difference is how they distribute heat through the home — and that difference has significant implications for installation cost, comfort, and which homes each option suits best.
Ductless mini-split systems
A ductless mini-split consists of an outdoor compressor unit connected by refrigerant lines to one or more indoor air handlers (called heads) mounted on walls or ceilings. Each head serves one zone, and the system can heat or cool independently by zone. There are no ducts.
Mini-splits are the standard choice for homes without existing ductwork — common in Ontario homes with hot water baseboard or radiator heating, which were never designed around a central air distribution system. Installing ducts in these homes is a major renovation; a mini-split system avoids it entirely.
Multi-zone mini-splits can serve an entire home from one outdoor unit, with heads in each major room or zone. Zoning means different areas can be set to different temperatures — practical for households where comfort preferences vary or where some rooms are rarely occupied.
Ducted central heat pump systems
A ducted heat pump connects to existing forced-air ductwork, replacing the heating and cooling functions of a central gas furnace and air conditioner. From the occupant's perspective, it operates like a conventional central system — one thermostat, one set of registers, consistent temperature distribution.
Ducted systems are the natural choice when: your home already has forced-air ductwork in reasonable condition, you're replacing an end-of-life gas furnace, or you prefer the simplicity and familiarity of a central system. Installation is typically less expensive and disruptive than adding ductwork to a home that lacks it.
Duct condition matters more than most homeowners realize
Leaky ductwork in unconditioned spaces (attics, crawlspaces) can lose 20–30% of heating and cooling capacity before it reaches living areas. If your home has existing ductwork, duct sealing or replacement may be as important as the heat pump selection itself. We assess duct condition as part of the audit process.
Cost comparison
Installation costs vary widely by home size, number of zones, and existing conditions. As a rough benchmark:
- Single-zone ductless mini-split: $3,000–$6,000 installed
- Multi-zone ductless system (whole-home, 3–4 zones): $12,000–$20,000 installed
- Ducted central heat pump (replacing existing forced-air): $6,000–$14,000 installed
These ranges overlap significantly, and the "right" choice isn't always the less expensive one. A ducted system in a home with poor ductwork may require duct sealing or replacement that pushes total cost above a multi-zone mini-split option.
Rebate eligibility for both types
Both ductless and ducted air source heat pumps can qualify for the HRS Program rebate (up to $4,000) provided they meet current efficiency rating requirements. The equipment type doesn't affect eligibility — the efficiency specification does. We verify current qualifying specifications before any equipment purchase.