Alternatives to Oil Heating: All You Need to Know to Switch From Oil to Heat Pumps

Switching from oil heating can feel like a big step, but it’s actually becoming more popular and affordable. In fact, by August 2024, 8,182 new heat pumps were installed across Canada, and $65.3 million in grants were handed out to help homeowners make the switch.

Nova Scotia is leading the charge with over 10,000 applications, making our province the champion of this transition! For example, grants from the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) program are helping each household save an average of $1,337 a year on heating costs while cutting greenhouse gases by almost 3 tonnes. How much is 3 tonnes? It's like taking 6,979 cars off the road — and that’s just the start! Let’s explore your options to keep warm, contribute to a better environment and save money.

Oil Heating Replacement Alternatives

If you have already decided to switch from oil heating to a more efficient, sustainable alternative or are just considering this step, let us give you a quick overview of some of the best options available.

Natural Gas Heating

A cleaner and more efficient fuel source, natural gas significantly reduces emissions and maintenance costs. However, it requires access to natural gas infrastructure, limiting its availability in rural areas.

Propane Heating

Propane offers a clean-burning alternative for homes without access to natural gas. It’s ideal for remote locations, though it requires a storage tank that takes up outdoor space.

Electric Baseboard Heating

Electric baseboard heating is affordable to install but can result in higher operational costs due to its lower efficiency. It’s most effective in homes with mild climates or for use as supplementary heat.

Wood and Pellet Stoves

Renewable and cost-effective, wood and pellet stoves are a traditional solution. However, they need regular maintenance, storage for fuel, and are less convenient for heating large areas.

Heat Pump Heating

It is the most efficient, eco-friendly, and versatile alternative to oil heating. And there are many reasons for that.

Why Heat Pumps are the Best Long-Term Option

Heat pumps are widely recognized as the most efficient, environmentally friendly, and versatile alternative to oil heating, for a variety of compelling reasons.

Energy Efficiency. Heat pumps can be up to 300% more efficient than oil heating, using less energy to deliver the same comfort. In the long run, this can mean lower utility bills. As we mentioned earlier, on average, families save $1,337 per year by switching to a heat pump.
Year-Round Comfort. Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, ensuring comfortable indoor temperatures regardless of the season. This versatility reduces the need for additional systems and lowers overall energy use.
Lower Carbon Footprint. Heat pumps are powered by electricity and rely on the ambient air for energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In Canada alone, the transition has already led to the reduction of 22,746 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Lower Maintenance. Compared to oil heating systems, heat pumps require less frequent maintenance, helping homeowners save on ongoing service costs.
Government Incentives. As part of Canada’s effort to reduce carbon emissions, homeowners who install heat pumps are eligible for government rebates and grants. The average grant is $7,158, making this an affordable long-term investment.

So, if you’re considering transitioning from oil heating, there are a variety of options available, but heat pumps offer the best combination of energy efficiency, long-term savings, and environmental impact. Plus, with government incentives helping to offset installation costs, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Switching to a Heat Pump

Step 1: Assess Your Heating Needs
Evaluate your current oil heating system and determine if a heat pump would meet your home’s requirements. Heat pumps are versatile and work well in most climates. We recommend turning to one of our qualified professionals and getting a FREE Home Assessment. Assessments usually take between 30-60 minutes based on the size of your home, and the type of system you may require. You will save a lot of time on research and get the best advice you need to go ahead, including information about available financial programs you can apply for.

Step 2: Get Quotes from Certified Installers
Contact a few licensed heat pump installers to get detailed quotes. Compare prices and services to find the best fit for your budget. Apply for grants and rebates if you are eligible.

Step 3: Schedule Installation
Once your grant is approved and you’ve selected an installer, schedule the installation at a convenient time. The process is typically quick and hassle-free.

Step 4: Start Saving and Enjoy the Comfort of Your Home

After the heat pump is installed, you’ll start saving on energy costs immediately. Heat pumps are known for providing consistent, even heating throughout your home. Unlike oil furnaces that create bursts of heat, heat pumps maintain a steady temperature, so you don’t experience those uncomfortable temperature swings. In addition to heating, they also offer cooling during the summer, keeping your home comfortable year-round. Because they use ambient air, the air quality tends to feel fresher and less dry than with traditional heating systems, making it a much more pleasant living environment overall.

By following these steps, you’ll transition to a more efficient heating system and enjoy long-term benefits!