Cold climate heat pumps are no longer niche products in Ontario. They’re solidifying their place as an integral part of residential and light commercial HVAC projects across the GTA. But many HVAC contractors in Ontario still hear the same objections:  “They don’t work below –10°C.” “They freeze up in winter.” “They can’t handle a real Ontario cold snap.”  

If you are going to make the most popular mistakes for the sake of this, break down the following myths — and even the reality of what is happening in today’s cold climate heat pump systems.  

Myth #1: Heat Pumps Don’t Work in Ontario Winters  

Maybe that was true 15-20 years back. It’s not true today. Contemporary cold climate heat pumps are designed to work in sub-zero levels. The majority of the systems installed in Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are rated well below -20°C and are capable of maintaining heating capacity in typical winter conditions. Winter design temperatures for cities such as Toronto, Vaughan, Markham, Mississauga and Brampton are well within the operating range for many existing cold-climate models. For HVAC contractors, the important thing is not whether the technology works but the correct selection and sizing of systems.  

Myth #2: Heat Pumps Freeze and Shut Down  

Outdoor units frost. That’s normal. Cold climate heat pumps are built with automatic defrost cycles. The system then temporarily reverses its operation to clear the frost build-up, and resumes heating. When a unit keeps icing over, it is most commonly attributed to:  
Poor airflow. Incorrect installation. Improper drainage. Undersized equipment.  
Proper placement and drainage planning make a big difference during freeze-thaw cycles in Ontario installations.  

Myth #3: They Can’t Handle -30°C in the GTA  

Ontario sees cold snaps. However, sustained -30°C weather is not the daily norm in most of the GTA. Cold climate heat pump systems may be employed in combination with:  
Electric heat backup. Furnace dual-fuel setups. Hybrid configurations.  
For HVAC contractors from Ontario, that won’t be a conversation of “heat pump vs furnace.” It’s design around the load and climate zone. Hybrid and dual-fuel systems are increasingly used in the Greater Toronto Area region as they allow adaptability in extreme conditions.  

Myth #4: Heat Pumps Are Not Practical for Ontario Retrofits  

Retrofit work comprises a large portion of HVAC work done in the GTA. Contractors will be able to:  
Cold climate ductless systems and air handler combinations  
Add zoning. Upgrade from baseboard heating. Integrate with existing duct systems. Improve efficiency without major structural changes.  
Homeowners in Ontario are increasingly asking about electrification. Contractors who know how to use cold climate heat pumps can make use of that demand.  

What Actually Matters in Ontario Installations  

The HVAC contractors working in Ontario and the GTA are to win success based on:  
Proper heat load calculations. Do not use rule-of-thumb sizing.  
Correct equipment selection. Use systems rated for true cold climate.  
Backup strategy planning. Design for peak winter conditions.  
Installation quality. Drainage, clearances, airflow and commissioning are more important than brand debates.  

Why This Matters for Ontario HVAC Contractors  

The Ontario market is changing. The rise of rebate programs, electrification, and increased energy costs are making more projects more inclined toward cold climate heat pump systems. Contractors in Toronto, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, and the rest of the GTA are already seeing higher demands. Knowing the facts — not the myths — keeps you:  
Quote confidently. Educate customers clearly. Reduce callbacks. Make your business sound sustainable for the long term.  

Final Thoughts  

Cold climate heat pumps are no longer experimental in Ontario. They’re a fixture in the GTA mainstream HVAC landscape. For contractors, you don’t have the option of whether to adopt the technology — the real question is how it can properly be designed and installed. HVAC contractors across Ontario are serviced by Airtek, which provides cold climate heat pump systems, application guidance, and project assistance for their clients. If you are planning an upcoming project in the GTA: Meet your Airtek Ontario sales representative to explore options and review configurations.