The Short Version
BC Hydro and the CleanBC Better Homes program both offer rebates for qualifying heat pump installations in British Columbia. If you're a Burnaby homeowner replacing a gas furnace, electric baseboard heaters, or an older inefficient heat pump, you can qualify for rebates that meaningfully reduce the upfront cost of a new system.
The exact amount depends on:
- The type of heat pump you install (air source single zone, air source multi-zone, or cold-climate)
- Your current heating source
- Whether you're replacing the whole system or adding cooling
BC Hydro Heat Pump Rebate
BC Hydro customers who install a qualifying air-source heat pump are eligible for rebates through their conservation program. The program focuses on homes currently using electric baseboards or electric forced-air systems.
Key points:
- Rebates are available for single-zone and multi-zone mini-split systems
- The heat pump must meet minimum HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings
- A qualifying contractor must perform the installation
- You'll need to submit the rebate application with the contractor invoice and equipment documentation
CleanBC Better Homes Program
The provincial CleanBC Better Homes program offers additional incentives layered on top of BC Hydro's program for homes replacing fossil fuel heating. If you have a gas furnace, this is where the more significant rebates are.
For homes replacing gas heating with a heat pump:
- Rebates are higher when the heat pump replaces the primary heating source
- Cold-climate heat pumps (rated for lower temperatures) may qualify for enhanced amounts
- Stacking BC Hydro and CleanBC rebates in the same installation is permitted
How to Claim Your Rebate
The rebate process is paperwork-heavy but manageable. Here's the general flow:
1. Get a quote from a registered contractor
2. Confirm the specific equipment meets program requirements before purchasing
3. Have the installation completed by the registered contractor
4. Collect the invoice, equipment spec sheets, and any required efficiency certifications
5. Submit the rebate application through the appropriate program portal
Most property owners find that working with a contractor familiar with the programs simplifies this significantly — they know which equipment qualifies and can provide the documentation in the right format.
What to Watch For
A few common issues that delay or disqualify rebate applications:
**Equipment specifications must match.** The specific model installed needs to meet the program's minimum efficiency ratings. Confirm this before the install, not after.
**Installation must be done by a registered contractor.** Both BC Hydro and CleanBC require installation by a contractor registered with the program. Ask your installer to confirm this upfront.
**Keep all documentation.** Equipment model and serial numbers, installation date, contractor invoice, and efficiency certifications are all typically required.
The Bottom Line
BC heat pump rebates are real and worth claiming. For a typical residential heat pump installation replacing gas heating, the combined BC Hydro and CleanBC rebates can offset a meaningful portion of the total project cost. The exact amounts change periodically, so it's worth confirming current program details before your installation.
We handle the documentation for every installation and walk our customers through what they're eligible for.