If you’re preparing your home for another harsh Canadian winter, you’ve probably asked yourself: Should I go with a heat pump or a furnace? It’s a big decision—and the right choice depends on your home, your heating needs, and just how cold it gets where you live.
At Cross Country Mechanical, we’ve spent decades helping homeowners across Spruce Grove, Parkland County, Edmonton, and surrounding areas choose the right HVAC systems. As an award winning factory authorized dealer, we know what works in our climate—and what doesn’t.
Let’s take a closer look at heat pumps vs furnaces, how they work, their pros and cons, and which one makes the most sense for Canadian winters.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a system that moves heat—it doesn’t generate it like a furnace. In winter, it pulls heat from the air outside (even when it’s cold outside, there’s still some heat in the air) and brings it inside. In summer, it does the reverse to cool your home.
So, what is a heat pump good for? It’s perfect for homeowners who want a single system for both heating and cooling, and who are looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint.
Types of Heat Pumps You’ll Hear About
Before you dive into heat pump installation, it helps to know what’s out there:
- Air-Source Heat Pumps – Most common and cost-effective. Some models now work in temps as low as -25°C, but performance drops the colder it gets.
- Geothermal (Ground-Source) – Ultra-efficient but expensive to install. Great long-term investment if you plan to stay put.
- Ductless Mini-Splits – Mini-splits are great for homes without ductwork or for heating specific rooms like additions or garages.
Why Some Homeowners Choose Heat Pumps
People choose heat pumps because:
- They’re energy-efficient. You use less electricity than baseboard or electric furnaces.
- They offer both heating and cooling in one unit.
- They’re more eco-friendly, reducing your carbon footprint.
- They can lead to lower monthly energy bills, especially in milder months.
But here’s the thing: in deep cold, they may need backup. That’s where dual systems work best.
What Is a Furnace?
A furnace is a tried-and-true heating system that generates heat by burning fuel (like gas or oil) or using electricity. That heat is then distributed throughout your home via ductwork.
If you’re wondering what is a furnace, the answer is simple:
It’s the old reliable. And in Spruce Grove winters, where it can drop to -30°C, reliability is everything.
Types of Furnaces You’ll See in Alberta Homes
When looking at furnace installation, you’ll typically see:
- Gas Furnaces – The most popular in our area. High efficiency, lower operating cost.
- Electric Furnaces – Easier to install but more expensive to run over time.
- Oil/Propane Furnaces – Mostly used in rural areas without natural gas lines.
Heat Pump vs Furnace: What’s Better for Canadian Winters?
Let’s get to the question you’re really here for:
Is a heat pump enough for Alberta winters, or should I stick with a furnace?
Here’s a breakdown:
| Feature | Heat Pump | Furnace |
| Cold Weather Performance | Works to about -15°C (some models -25°C), then needs backup | Heats reliably even in -30°C |
| Efficiency | Very efficient in milder temps | Gas models are highly efficient in cold weather |
| Energy Source | Electricity | Natural gas, oil, propane, or electric |
| Cooling Function | Yes – doubles as an air conditioner | No–heat only |
| Installation Cost | Higher upfront | Mid-range to high, depending on the system |
| Monthly Costs | Lower when temps aren’t extreme | Lower in deep cold (especially gas) |
| Best Fit For | Energy-conscious homes, moderate climates, and hybrid systems | Homes in extreme cold needing consistent, powerful heat |
The Best Heating System for Alberta Homes
For homeowners in Spruce Grove, Parkland County, or Edmonton, where winter temperatures regularly drop below -20°C, a gas furnace is often the more dependable choice. It’s designed to produce powerful heat and maintain comfort no matter how cold it gets outside.
That said, many Albertans are now opting for dual-fuel systems—combining a heat pump with a gas furnace. You get the energy savings of a heat pump during fall and spring, and the reliability of a furnace when winter really kicks in.
Why Work With Cross Country Mechanical?
We’re not here to upsell you. We’re here to help you make the right decision for your home, your family, and your budget. What makes us different?
- We are an award winning factory authorized dealer across all HVAC systems.
- We service every make and model—from legacy furnaces to high-tech heat pumps.
- 24/7 emergency HVAC support—because your heat shouldn’t cut out at 2 a.m.
- Local, trusted, and proudly serving Spruce Grove, Edmonton, and Parkland County.
Get a Free Consultation
Heat pump vs furnace—it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re focused on eco-friendly heating and energy efficiency, a heat pump (or a hybrid system) might be your best bet. But if you need reliable, high-performance heating during Alberta’s harsh winters, a gas furnace remains the gold standard.
Still not sure which system is right for you? Contact us today at Cross Country Mechanical today for a personalized consultation and expert installation service. We’re proud to keep Spruce Grove, Edmonton, and surrounding areas warm, no matter what winter throws your way.