DIY Heat Pump Installation: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

A professional heat pump installation can run anywhere from $6,000 to $25,000, depending on your chosen type. That’s a big chunk of cash. So, it makes sense to look at DIY options to cut costs.

Now, is it doable? Yes.

Is it as simple as YouTube tutorials make it look? Not really.

There’s more to it than just mounting the unit and plugging it in. You need to deal with refrigerants, electrical work, and making sure it’s ready for North American winters. 

This guide for Canadian and American homeowners will walk you through what’s involved in DIY heat pump installation, what you can do yourself, and where you might need a pro.

Can I Install a Heat Pump System Myself?

Yes, you can install a heat pump yourself, but it’s not recommended in most cases. The Government of Canada advises that heat pumps should be installed by a qualified contractor to ensure proper performance, safety, and efficiency.

In the United States, laws vary by state.

That said, if you’re experienced with home improvement projects and working with HVAC systems, you might be able to handle parts of the installation—especially if you’re using a DIY-friendly ductless mini-split kit. 

However, the installation process gets tricky quickly for anything more complex, like a ducted heat pump that has to also connect to your furnace for example, or a geothermal system.

Here’s what to consider before installing a heat pump yourself:

• Skill Level: Are you comfortable drilling into your walls, running refrigerant lines, and handling electrical work? If not, this might not be the project for you.
• Aesthetics: A pro will make sure the installation looks clean and professional. Can you do the same, or will it look like a weekend DIY job?
• Legality: Many provinces require permits for HVAC installs. Are you willing to deal with the paperwork and inspections?

What Makes a Heat Pump “DIY-Friendly”?

Not all heat pumps are designed for homeowners to install on their own. Some brands, like MrCool, Pioneer, and Senville, design their mini-split systems with homeowners in mind, providing detailed manuals, step-by-step video tutorials, and customer support in case you run into trouble. 

Ductless mini-split heat pumps tend to be a bit simpler to install, as they are more ‘self-contained- units, because the outdoor compressor basically connects to the indoor unit or ‘head’ and that’s it. 

Whereas ducted heat pump systems need to connect to your furnace or an air handler in order to circulate the air throughout your home, and this often requires more complex wiring, sheet metal cutting and fitting, and integrating separate units and components.

If you’re considering a self-install, here’s what to look for:

Pre-Charged Refrigerant Lines

In Canada, handling refrigerants legally requires certification, so unless you’re trained, you can’t just connect and charge the system yourself. Some heat pumps, like certain ductless mini-splits, come with pre-charged lines that snap together without needing vacuum pumps or special gauges. 

Electrical Setup

Some DIY-friendly heat pumps plug into a standard 120V outlet, making installation much easier. Others require 220V wiring, typically running a dedicated circuit (better to be handled by an electrician). If you’re not comfortable working with high-voltage wiring, a plug-and-play system is the better choice.

Physical Installation Process

The easiest heat pumps to install come with a wall-mounted indoor unit that attaches with a simple bracket and refrigerant lines that don’t require cutting, bending, or flaring. Ideally, you should only have to drill a small hole through the wall to run the lines. 

If the system requires major modifications—like running new ductwork or installing a complex drainage system—DIY quickly becomes unrealistic.

Why Choose a DIY Heat Pump?

Installing a DIY heat pump can be a rewarding challenge for homeowners who enjoy hands-on projects. 

The biggest reason homeowners in Canada consider a DIY heat pump install is cost savings. A DIY installation can save up to a few thousand dollars, especially if you choose a ductless mini-split system with pre-charged refrigerant lines. 

However, if the installation is done incorrectly, it might backfire and cost more than hiring a professional.

If you’ve successfully tackled other home improvement projects—like mounting a TV, installing a ceiling fan, or running new electrical wiring—you might feel confident taking on the project. But that only applies if you work with a pre-charged, homeowner-friendly system. 

Three Steps for Installing a DIY Heat Pump

The process is more manageable if you’re using a DIY-friendly mini-split system, but you still need to take careful steps to ensure proper placement.

Professional heat pump installation typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the system and home layout. If you’re going the DIY route, expect it to take at least twice as long—possibly more. 

1. Assess Your Home’s Suitability

Before choosing a heat pump, you need to determine whether a ducted or ductless (mini-split) system is right for your home. The decision usually comes down to whether your home already has ductwork. If it does, a ducted heat pump might be the best choice since it can replace an existing furnace or central AC system. 

If your home doesn’t have ductwork, because you have a boiler for instance, a ductless mini-split is the better option since it only requires a small hole through the wall to run the refrigerant lines.

Another important step is choosing the right heat pump size for your space. Our heat pump size calculator can help you find the ideal unit capacity based on your square footage, climate, and insulation level.

Speaking of insulation, make sure your home is properly insulated before installing a heat pump. Heat pumps work best in well-sealed homes where warm or cool air isn’t constantly escaping. 

If your home has poor insulation, you’ll overwork the system, leading to higher energy bills and uneven temperatures. If insulation is lacking, consider upgrading before investing in a heat pump.

2. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

While a DIY-friendly mini-split system typically comes with most of the components you need, you’ll still require basic tools for mounting, drilling, and sealing connections. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

Basic Tools

• Drill with hole saw attachment
• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Adjustable wrench
• Level
• Tape measure
• Utility knife
• Stud finder

Additional Materials

• Mounting bracket (usually included with the unit)
• Insulation tape
• Weatherproof sealant
• Pipe clamps or zip ties
• Caulking gun

3. Install Indoor and Outdoor Units

Follow these steps to install each unit and ensure smooth and secure operation.

• The indoor unit should have at least 6 inches of clearance above and on the sides and be positioned away from heat sources like stoves or radiators.
• For outdoor units in Canada, a south or southwest-facing wall is ideal. These walls receive more heat from the sun.
• Ensure the wall is strong enough to support the unit. Heat pumps are heavy (about 80–150 kg), and wall-mounted units must be secured to studs or a solid surface.
• Drill a hole (typically 2–3 inches in diameter) through the wall to run the refrigerant lines, drain tubing, and electrical cables.
• Angle the hole slightly downward toward the exterior to allow condensation and drainage to flow out naturally.
• Check for obstructions on both sides of the wall before drilling. Avoid electrical wiring, plumbing, and structural beams.
• Clear a level space for the outdoor unit. If it’s being installed on the ground, place it on a concrete pad or mounting brackets to keep it stable and prevent snow accumulation.
• Allow for proper airflow around the outdoor unit. Leave at least 12 inches of clearance on all sides and at least 24 inches above the unit to ensure it operates efficiently.

Challenges Of DIY Heat Pump Installation

Here are some of the biggest challenges you might face when installing a heat pump yourself:

Technical Complexity

Installing a heat pump requires a solid understanding of thermodynamics, electrical work, and fluid mechanics. A mistake in installation can lead to inefficient heating and cooling or even system failure.

Handling refrigerant lines is another challenge. If the system doesn’t have pre-charged refrigerant lines, you’ll need specialized tools like a vacuum pump and manifold gauge set to remove moisture and air from the system before charging it. 

Heat pumps require a dedicated circuit, and many systems run on 220V power, which can be dangerous if wired incorrectly. 

Most homeowners also don’t have the necessary tools and materials for a proper installation. Things like torque wrenches, flaring tools, and vacuum pumps aren’t common household items.

Beyond the technical side, there’s also the risk to personal safety. Drilling through walls, working with high-voltage wiring, and handling refrigerants all come with hazards. 

Legal and Warranty Implications

While DIY can save money upfront, a mistake in this area could cost you thousands later if something goes wrong.

Most manufacturers require professional installation for their heat pumps to maintain warranty coverage. If you install the unit yourself and it malfunctions within the warranty period, the manufacturer might refuse to cover repairs or replacements. Many companies only process warranty claims through the original installer or an authorized service provider. 

Another legal consideration is refrigerant handling. In Canada, managing refrigerants requires certification due to environmental and safety regulations. Refrigerant leaks contribute to ozone depletion and climate change, so the government takes it seriously. You could face legal penalties if you’re caught handling refrigerants without the proper license.

Potential for Increased Costs

Mistakes in heat pump installation can lead to higher energy bills and expensive repairs.

For example, imagine a homeowner installs a ductless mini-split without properly sealing the refrigerant lines. The system appears to work fine at first, but over time, a small refrigerant leak causes the unit to lose efficiency. 

The homeowner notices that their energy bills are creeping up, but they don’t realize it’s because the system is struggling due to low refrigerant levels. Eventually, the compressor burns out—an expensive fix that could cost $1,500 to $3,000. The manufacturer will likely refuse to honour the warranty since a licensed professional didn’t install the unit.

If a future buyer or home inspector sees an improperly installed HVAC system, they might question the quality of work done elsewhere in the home. Many buyers are wary of DIY electrical and HVAC work because of the risks involved. 

DIY Heat Pump Brands Available in Canada and the USA

Below are some notable brands available in Canada and the United States that offer DIY-friendly or high-efficiency heat pumps.

MRCOOL DIY Series

The MRCOOL DIY® Series is one of the most well-known DIY-friendly heat pumps. Depending on the model and retailer, its price range may vary from $2,500 to $4,500.

Each MRCOOL DIY® unit includes a 25ft DIYPRO™ armoured communication cable, which allows for a secure and simple connection between the indoor air handler and the outdoor condenser. The system also comes with mounting brackets.

Many of their products are ENERGY STAR® certified and meet high energy-efficiency standards.

Additionally, they provide:

• 7-year unit replacement warranty for the compressor
• 5-year parts warranty

Kanartic

Unlike MRCOOL, which is American-based, Kanartic is a Canadian HVAC manufacturer based near Montréal. Designed for harsh Canadian winters, Kanartic heat pumps are built to handle extreme cold, with operation down to -30°C (-22°F). 

These systems are certified by AHRI (Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute) for energy efficiency levels up to 26 SEER and 13 HSPF.

Kanartic provides a 10-year warranty on the compressor and a 5-year warranty on all other parts connected to the Kanartic Mini Split EOS and EOS DIY heat pump system.

Incentives and Rebates in Canada

DIY installation isn’t the only way to save money on a heat pump. In Canada, federal and provincial programs offer rebates, grants, and financing options for heat pump installations. 

Note that in most cases, qualifying for government rebates will require additional steps, like having a pre and post-upgrade energy audit done. The upgrades may also need to be completed by a registered contractor.

Here’s an overview of the key incentives available.

Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program (OHPA)

Eligibility: Income-qualified homeowners currently using oil as their primary heating source.

This program provides up to $10,000 for low- to median-income households to switch from oil heating to a heat pump system. In some provinces, additional funding increases the total grant to $15,000. There’s also a $250 bonus payment to help with extra costs like removing the oil tank or upgrading electrical connections.

Canada Greener Homes Loan

Eligibility: Homeowners who have completed a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation.

This program offers interest-free loans between $5,000 and $40,000 to help homeowners finance energy-efficient upgrades, including heat pump installations.

Provincial and Territorial Incentives

• British Columbia: The CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program offers up to $3,000 for heat pump installations, with additional incentives for other energy-saving projects.
• Alberta: The Clean Energy Improvement Program allows homeowners in select municipalities to finance energy-efficient upgrades through property tax bill repayments, including heat pumps.
• Saskatchewan: The Home Efficiency Retrofit Rebate (HERR) provides up to $1,800 for energy-saving projects, including air-sealing, insulation, and ENERGY STAR-certified windows and doors.
• Manitoba: Efficiency Manitoba offers rebates for heat pump installations, varying amounts based on home size and heat pump type. Financing is available through Manitoba Hydro’s Home Energy Efficiency Loan.
• Ontario: The Energy Affordability Program (EAP) provides free cold-climate air-source heat pumps for income-qualified homeowners, renters, or leaseholders.
• Quebec: The LogisVert Efficient Homes Program provides up to $6,700 in financial assistance to install a heat pump.
• Nova Scotia: Efficiency Nova Scotia provides up to $2,000 rebates for eligible heat pump installations.
• Newfoundland and Labrador: The takeCHARGE Program offers financing of up to $10,000 with repayment terms of up to 60 months for installing qualifying heat pumps.

For detailed information about your city and province, check our updated guide on Canadian Government Rebates.

Get a Helping Hand for Heat Pump Installation

Let’s be real. DIY heat pump installation isn’t for everyone. We’ve covered the legal headaches, warranty risks, and technical challenges of doing it yourself. 

Rebates can help bring down the cost. But at the end of the day, you still need a proper install to get the best performance out of your heat pump.

If you’re looking for affordable, high-quality installation, we can help. Get a quote from one of our trusted partners—we work exclusively with the top 1% of HVAC companies in Canada, as well as a network of contractors in many US states. 

Get free estimates in professional heat pump installations today!

FAQs About DIY Heat Pump Installation