TruFinity Plumbing Heating & Cooling

Upgrading your home's heating and cooling is a big decision, but right now, it’s also a major financial opportunity. With BC rebates offering up to $24,000 for energy-efficient upgrades, the cost of a new heat pump is more accessible than ever. For mobile homeowners, this is the perfect time to switch to a system that lowers monthly bills and provides year-round comfort. This article will walk you through the key considerations of how to install a heat pump in a mobile home, ensuring you can take full advantage of these incentives. We’ll cover everything from professional sizing to financing, helping you make a smart investment.

Key Takeaways

Heat pumps offer a dual benefit: They provide consistent, year-round heating and cooling from a single system, leading to lower energy bills. Plus, significant government rebates can make the upgrade surprisingly affordable.
Insist on a professional load calculation: The single most important factor for an efficient heat pump is correct sizing. A unit that's too large or small wastes energy, so make sure your installer performs a Manual J load calculation to match the system perfectly to your mobile home.
Protect your investment with a professional installer: A heat pump is a complex system that requires certified technicians for safe installation, proper refrigerant handling, and warranty validation. Hiring a qualified pro is the best way to ensure your system runs efficiently and reliably for years.

Why Put a Heat Pump in Your Mobile Home?

If you live in a mobile home, you know that finding the right heating and cooling solution is key to staying comfortable without breaking the bank. An old furnace or a collection of window AC units can struggle to keep up, often leading to high energy bills and rooms that are either too hot or too cold. That’s where a modern heat pump comes in. It’s a single, highly efficient system that handles both heating and cooling, making it a fantastic upgrade for mobile homeowners right here in the Okanagan.

Making the switch is a big decision, but the benefits are clear. You get a more comfortable home, lower monthly costs, and can even take advantage of some incredible financial incentives. Let's walk through why a heat pump might be the perfect fit for your home.

Lower Your Energy Bills

Let’s be honest, no one likes opening a surprisingly high utility bill, especially during a cold snap or a summer heatwave. Older heating systems, particularly the electric furnaces common in many mobile homes, can be incredibly inefficient. A heat pump works differently by moving heat rather than creating it from scratch, which means it uses far less energy. In fact, modern heat pumps can greatly lower your energy use and utility bills. Today’s cold-climate models are designed to work efficiently even in chilly Okanagan winters, providing reliable warmth without the high cost. By upgrading, you’re not just getting new equipment; you’re making a long-term investment in lower monthly expenses.

Enjoy Year-Round Comfort

One of the best things about a heat pump is its versatility. It’s an all-in-one solution that provides powerful cooling in the summer and consistent heating in the winter. This means you can say goodbye to juggling a separate furnace and air conditioner. A single system keeps your home comfortable all year long, simplifying maintenance and giving you one less thing to worry about. A heat pump also delivers more even, consistent air distribution than older systems, helping to eliminate those frustrating hot and cold spots. It’s about creating a truly comfortable living space you can enjoy no matter the weather. Our goal at TruFinity is to provide that reliable, year-round comfort with our expert heat pump services.

Get Money Back with Rebates

The upfront cost of a new heat pump can feel like a hurdle, but it’s important to look at the bigger picture. While the initial investment is often higher than a traditional furnace, the long-term energy savings and available incentives can make it a very smart financial move. The government is actively encouraging homeowners to switch to energy-efficient technology. Here in British Columbia, homeowners can access significant rebates and offers that can cover a large portion of the installation cost. When you combine these programs with flexible financing options, a new heat pump becomes much more accessible. It’s an opportunity to upgrade your home’s comfort and efficiency while taking advantage of programs designed to save you money.

How to Choose the Right Heat Pump

Picking the right heat pump for your mobile home is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. The best choice comes down to understanding your home's specific needs, your budget, and your goals for year-round comfort. Think of it less as a technical challenge and more as a matching game—finding the system that fits your life perfectly. With so many efficient models on the market, you can find a solution that keeps you comfortable through hot Okanagan summers and chilly winters.

The key is to focus on a few core factors: the type of system, its size, its performance in our local climate, and the overall cost. Getting these right ensures you’ll be happy with your investment for years to come. At TruFinity, our NATE-certified technicians help homeowners work through these choices every day, ensuring you get a system that’s not just installed correctly, but is the absolute best fit for your home. We start with a thorough assessment to give you clear, honest advice tailored to your unique situation.

Explore Your Heat Pump Options

When it comes to heat pumps for mobile homes, you have a few great options. Ductless mini-split systems are incredibly popular because they don't require existing ductwork, making them flexible and easy to install in almost any space. They consist of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor heads, giving you zoned heating and cooling. If your home already has ductwork, a central air-source heat pump can be a straightforward and effective choice, working much like a traditional furnace and AC system. Exploring these modern heat pump systems will help you find the perfect match for your home's layout and your family's needs.

Why Sizing Is So Important

It’s easy to think that bigger is better, but when it comes to heat pumps, that’s not the case. The size of your unit—measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units)—is critical for both comfort and efficiency. A unit that’s too large will cycle on and off too frequently, failing to properly dehumidify your home and wasting energy. A unit that’s too small will run constantly without ever reaching the set temperature, leading to high energy bills and unnecessary wear and tear. Proper sizing depends on your home’s square footage, insulation levels, and window quality. That’s why we always perform a professional Manual J load calculation to determine the exact size your home needs, taking the guesswork out of the equation.

Consider Our Local Climate

Living in the Okanagan means we get to enjoy beautiful, distinct seasons—and your heating and cooling system needs to be ready for all of them. A common myth is that heat pumps don’t work well in the cold, but today’s technology has changed the game. Modern cold-climate heat pumps are specifically designed to perform efficiently even when temperatures drop, with many models working effectively down to -25°C. While it’s true that all heat pumps work harder in extreme cold, choosing a model rated for our climate ensures you’ll stay warm and cozy. The CleanBC program provides excellent resources and rebates for systems that are proven to handle British Columbia’s winters, so you can invest with confidence.

Understand the Costs and Financing

Let’s talk about the budget. The upfront cost of a heat pump is typically higher than a traditional furnace, but it’s important to look at the full picture. First, heat pumps are incredibly energy-efficient, which means you’ll see significant savings on your monthly utility bills. Second, generous provincial and federal rebates can drastically reduce your initial investment—sometimes by thousands of dollars. To make the remaining cost more manageable, we offer flexible financing options, including plans with zero interest and zero payments for three months. We believe everyone deserves a comfortable home, and our team is here to help you find a solution that fits your budget without any high-pressure sales tactics or surprises.

Your Pre-Installation Checklist

A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth and successful heat pump installation. Before your technicians arrive, running through a few key checks can save time, prevent surprises, and ensure your home is ready for its comfort upgrade. Think of it as setting the stage for an efficient installation day. This checklist covers the essential steps, from clearing the physical space to understanding the necessary permits. By tackling these items beforehand, you can feel confident and prepared for the process.

Prepare the Installation Site

First, take a look at where the indoor and outdoor units will go. You’ll want to clear a path for the technicians and their equipment. Outside, this means trimming back any shrubs or plants and moving patio furniture, toys, or garden tools to create at least a few feet of clear space around the planned location for the outdoor unit. Inside, make sure the area for the indoor unit is easily accessible. A clean, clear workspace helps the installation team work safely and efficiently, ensuring your new system is positioned for optimal performance.

Check Your Electrical Setup

Heat pumps are powerful systems that require a dedicated electrical circuit. While a professional will handle the final connections, you can do a quick preliminary check. Take a look at your home’s main electrical panel. Is there any open space for new breakers? Mobile homes sometimes have smaller panels with limited capacity. Your system will likely need a new 240-volt circuit, which takes up two slots in the panel. Don’t worry if you’re not sure what you’re looking at—our certified technicians will perform a full electrical assessment to confirm your setup can safely handle the new load.

Handle Permits and Local Codes

Installing a new HVAC system isn't just a technical job; it often requires official approval. Most municipalities in the Okanagan, from Kelowna to Penticton, require a permit for heat pump installations to ensure the work meets safety and building codes. These regulations can be slightly different for mobile homes. The good news is that you don't have to sort through the paperwork yourself. A reputable contractor will be familiar with local building requirements and will manage the entire permitting process for you, ensuring your installation is fully compliant and safe.

A Note on Tools and Materials

A professional heat pump installation relies on a specific set of tools and materials that go far beyond a standard toolbox. Technicians arrive with equipment like vacuum pumps to properly handle refrigerant lines, digital manifolds for precise system charging, and specialized tools for flaring copper tubing. They also bring all the necessary components, from PVC pipes and condensate pumps for moisture management to the correct wiring and mounting hardware. This is a key reason why DIY installation is not recommended; having the right professional-grade HVAC tools ensures the job is done safely and correctly the first time.

Put Safety First

Your family’s safety is the top priority during any installation. A professional installation process includes several critical safety checks. This involves verifying the electrical work is up to code to prevent fire hazards, ensuring refrigerant lines are sealed perfectly to avoid leaks, and positioning the units for proper airflow and ventilation. Our NATE-certified technicians are trained to follow strict safety protocols that protect both your home and your family. By working with a qualified professional, you get peace of mind knowing that every connection is secure and your system will operate reliably for years to come, as outlined by organizations like Technical Safety BC.

What to Expect on Installation Day

When installation day arrives, you can feel confident knowing our professional team has everything under control. A typical mobile home heat pump installation is a well-organized process designed to be as undisruptive as possible. Our NATE-certified technicians arrive with all the necessary tools and equipment, ready to get your new system up and running. We start by protecting your home, laying down drop cloths and ensuring our workspace is tidy. Throughout the day, we’ll communicate with you, explaining what we’re doing and answering any questions you have. Our goal is to make the experience straightforward and stress-free, so you can start enjoying a more comfortable home right away.

Mounting the Indoor Unit

The first major step is installing the indoor unit, often called the air handler. For ductless systems, our technicians will find the best spot on an interior wall to ensure even air distribution throughout your main living area. We then create a small, neat opening to the outside for the necessary lines. The installer will carefully mount the unit, attach the control wire, and feed the refrigerant, drainage, and control lines through the opening to connect to the outdoor unit later. We take great care to position the air handler for quiet operation and optimal performance, making sure it fits seamlessly into your home’s layout.

Placing the Outdoor Unit

Next, we focus on the outdoor unit, or condenser. This unit needs a stable, level surface, so we’ll prepare a dedicated concrete pad or use sturdy mounting brackets. Placement is key for efficiency and safety. Local codes often specify minimum clearances from property lines, windows, and vents, and our team handles all these requirements for you. We’ll find a location that allows for proper airflow and is accessible for future maintenance, while also considering aesthetics and noise. Proper placement ensures your system performs reliably for years and complies with all local Okanagan regulations.

Connecting the Components

With both units in place, it’s time to connect them. This is a critical and technical part of the process. Our technicians run a protected line set that contains refrigerant tubing, electrical wiring, and a condensate drain between the indoor and outdoor units. Handling refrigerant is a specialized task that requires certification to be done safely and legally. Our EPA-certified technicians have the expertise to manage this process correctly, ensuring there are no leaks and the system is sealed perfectly. This careful connection is essential for your heat pump’s efficiency and longevity.

Testing and Final Setup

Once everything is connected, we begin the final commissioning phase. This involves a series of rigorous tests to confirm the system is working perfectly. We charge the unit with the precise amount of refrigerant, check for pressure and leaks, and run both the heating and cooling cycles. Adhering to strict safety guidelines is our top priority. After confirming everything is running smoothly, we’ll install and program your new thermostat, showing you how to use all its features. We won’t leave until you’re completely comfortable operating your new heat pump.

Common Challenges to Plan For

While every installation is unique, a professional team anticipates and plans for potential challenges. Common installation mistakes like incorrect sizing or poor placement are avoided thanks to our detailed pre-installation assessment. In mobile homes, we might need to address specific electrical panel capacities or find creative solutions for limited exterior space. By identifying these factors during our initial load calculation and site visit, we can create a solid plan. This preparation ensures that on installation day, we already have the solutions ready, preventing delays and guaranteeing a smooth, successful setup.

Get the Most from Your New Heat Pump

Your new heat pump is installed, and you're ready to enjoy efficient heating and cooling. But the journey doesn't end there. To truly maximize your investment, a little ongoing care goes a long way. Taking a few simple steps will ensure your system runs at peak performance for years, keeping your home comfortable and your energy bills low. Think of it as protecting your new asset. Here’s how you can get the most out of your heat pump without feeling overwhelmed by breaking it down into a few key areas.

Follow a Simple Maintenance Schedule

Just like your car, your heat pump needs regular check-ups to run efficiently and avoid unexpected breakdowns. The most important task you can do is to clean or replace the air filters every 1-3 months. A clogged filter forces the system to work harder, wasting energy and straining components. You should also keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, snow, and debris to ensure proper airflow. For everything else, a professional tune-up is key. Our NATE-certified technicians perform a comprehensive inspection to catch small issues before they become big problems. A preventative maintenance plan is the easiest way to stay on top of this, ensuring your system’s longevity and keeping your warranty valid.

Use These Energy-Saving Tips

A heat pump is already an energy-efficient choice, but a few smart habits can lower your utility bills even more. Start by using a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you're away or asleep. Sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork in your mobile home also makes a huge difference, as it prevents your conditioned air from escaping. In the summer, use blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight, and in the winter, open them up to let the sun’s warmth in. These small adjustments reduce the workload on your heat pump, which translates directly into savings on your monthly energy bills over the life of the system.

Make Seasonal Adjustments

The Okanagan’s climate demands a system that can handle both chilly winters and hot summers. Your heat pump is built for this, especially modern cold-climate models that work efficiently in temperatures as low as -25°C. In winter, set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature and leave it there—frequent, large adjustments can trigger the less-efficient auxiliary heat strip. For the few coldest days of the year, this backup heat provides extra comfort. In the summer, switch your system to "cool" mode and use ceiling fans to circulate air, which can make the room feel cooler and allow you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher. These simple seasonal tweaks ensure you get efficient performance all year round.

Know Basic Troubleshooting

Before you call for service, there are a few simple things you can check yourself. If your heat pump isn't working, first check the thermostat settings to make sure it’s on the right mode (heat or cool) and at the right temperature. Next, check your air filter—a dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause the system to shut down. Finally, check your home’s electrical panel to see if the breaker for the heat pump has tripped. If you’ve checked these things and the system still isn’t running properly, it’s time to call in the experts. For any issues beyond these basic steps, our team is ready to provide professional heating and cooling services to get your system back online safely.

Why Work with a Professional?

While it can be tempting to tackle home projects yourself, installing a heat pump is a job best left to the experts, especially in a mobile home. This isn't just about convenience; it's about safety, efficiency, and protecting your investment. A professional installation ensures that every component, from the electrical wiring to the delicate refrigerant lines, is handled correctly. Professionals understand the unique structural and spatial considerations of mobile homes and can ensure your unit is installed for optimal performance and longevity.

Hiring a certified technician also protects your manufacturer's warranty, which can be voided by an improper installation. Experts are equipped with specialized tools and are trained to handle refrigerants safely and in compliance with environmental regulations. They can perform a proper load calculation to make sure your heat pump is the right size for your home—not too big and not too small—which is the key to efficient heating and cooling. Ultimately, working with a pro gives you peace of mind that the job is done right the first time, saving you from potential headaches and costly repairs down the road.

How to Choose a Qualified Contractor

Finding the right contractor is the most important step in your heat pump journey. Start by looking for a company with a strong track record and verifiable credentials. Check for technicians who are NATE-certified; this certification is the gold standard in the HVAC industry, ensuring they have proven, real-world knowledge. You should also confirm the company is licensed, bonded, and insured to protect you from any liability.

Don’t just take their word for it—read online reviews to see what other customers in the Okanagan are saying. A history of positive feedback is a great indicator of reliable service. A qualified installer will also be familiar with local building codes and permit requirements, ensuring your installation is fully compliant. At TruFinity, our team is proud of our 585+ positive reviews and our commitment to transparent, high-quality work.

What the Installation Day Looks Like

Knowing what to expect on installation day can make the process feel much smoother. The process for a new heat pump is more involved than just plugging something in. First, if you have an old system, the technicians will need to safely disconnect it and properly recover any existing refrigerant, which is required by law. Next, they will prepare the sites for your new indoor and outdoor units, ensuring the locations allow for proper airflow and drainage.

Once the units are mounted, the team will run refrigerant lines and electrical wiring to connect them. This is a detailed process that requires precision to prevent leaks and ensure electrical safety. After everything is connected, they will charge the system with refrigerant and perform a series of tests to make sure it’s running efficiently and producing the right amount of heating and cooling. They should walk you through the new system and thermostat before they leave, answering any questions you have.

Questions You Should Ask Your Installer

Before you commit, it’s smart to have a list of questions ready. This helps you gauge a contractor’s expertise and ensures you’re both on the same page.

Here are a few key questions to ask:

Do you have experience installing heat pumps in mobile homes?
Are your technicians NATE-certified and do they have EPA Section 608 Certification for handling refrigerants?
How do you determine the right size heat pump for my home? (Look for mentions of a Manual J load calculation.)
What brands do you carry, and what are the warranty terms for parts and labor?
Can you provide a detailed, itemized quote?
Will you handle the necessary permits?

A trustworthy contractor will be happy to answer these questions and provide clear, confident responses.

A Word on Warranties and Maintenance Plans

Your heat pump is a significant investment, and you’ll want to protect it. A professional installation is the first step, as it ensures your manufacturer’s warranty remains valid. But the protection doesn't stop there. Ask your contractor about their labor warranty, which covers the installation work itself.

Beyond warranties, regular maintenance is essential for keeping your system running efficiently and extending its lifespan. Many companies offer annual service plans that include inspections, cleanings, and tune-ups. These plans can help you catch small issues before they become big problems, ensuring your heat pump is ready for the Okanagan’s coldest winters and hottest summers. Consider a program like our TruLoyalty+ Membership, which includes annual maintenance and discounts on future services.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Moving forward with a heat pump installation is an exciting step toward a more comfortable and energy-efficient home. Once you’ve done your research and feel confident in your choice, the next phase is all about action. Taking a few key steps now will ensure the entire process, from the initial assessment to the final installation, goes smoothly. Here’s how to get everything lined up for a successful switch.

Get a Professional Assessment

Before any work begins, a professional assessment is essential, especially for a mobile home. An expert needs to evaluate your home's specific characteristics, including its age, insulation levels, existing ductwork, and electrical capacity. This step is crucial for determining the right size and type of heat pump for your space. At TruFinity, our NATE-certified technicians provide a free, no-obligation assessment that includes a proper Manual J load calculation. This ensures your new system is perfectly matched to your home’s needs, guaranteeing efficient performance for years to come. A thorough site evaluation is the foundation of a successful installation.

Plan Your Installation Timeline

A heat pump installation is a detailed process that requires careful planning. It involves more than just swapping out an old unit. If you have an existing system, the old equipment and its refrigerant must be safely removed and disposed of according to environmental regulations. The full installation can take a day or more, depending on the complexity of the job. Our team at TruFinity will provide a clear and realistic timeline so you know exactly what to expect. We coordinate every step, from preparing the site to testing the new system, to minimize disruption to your daily life.

Lock In Your Financing and Rebates

While a new heat pump is a smart long-term investment, the upfront cost can be a significant consideration. The good news is that there are fantastic programs available to make it more affordable. Homeowners in British Columbia can access government rebates that can save you thousands. We can help you identify all the rebates you qualify for and guide you through the application process. To manage the remaining cost, we offer flexible financing options, including plans with zero interest and zero payments for three months. This allows you to get the comfort you need now while paying on a schedule that works for you.

Schedule Your Installation

When you’re ready to book your installation, it’s vital to choose a team with the right credentials. Handling refrigerants requires EPA certification, and proper installation is key to your system’s efficiency and longevity. Our technicians are not only certified but also receive continuous training directly from leading manufacturers like Daikin, Lennox, and Bosch. When you schedule your installation with TruFinity, you can rest easy knowing your home is in the hands of trusted experts committed to quality and safety. Plus, don’t forget to ask about our current offers, like $500 off a new heat pump installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a heat pump actually keep my mobile home warm during a cold Okanagan winter? Absolutely. This is a common concern, but modern heat pump technology has come a long way. The cold-climate models we install are designed to work efficiently in temperatures as low as -25°C. The key to reliable winter performance is ensuring the unit is sized correctly for your specific home and installed by a professional. A proper installation guarantees your system will provide consistent, cozy warmth all winter long.

What's the real cost of a heat pump installation, and how do rebates and financing work? The final cost depends on the size of your home and the specific system you choose, so there isn't a single price tag. However, it's more affordable than many people think. Government rebates can cover a significant portion of the upfront cost, sometimes thousands of dollars. For the remaining amount, financing allows you to break it down into manageable monthly payments. We can walk you through all the available incentives and payment plans during a free assessment to give you a clear, all-in price with no surprises.

My mobile home is older. Can its electrical system handle a new heat pump? This is a great question and something we always check. Many older mobile homes have electrical panels with limited capacity, so a professional assessment is essential. As part of our installation process, our certified technicians will evaluate your entire electrical setup to ensure it can safely support the new system. If an upgrade is needed, we can manage that as part of the overall project, ensuring everything is up to code.

How long does a typical installation take, and what's the disruption like? We know your time is valuable, and we work hard to make the installation process as smooth as possible. A standard heat pump installation in a mobile home is typically completed in a day or two. Our team is respectful of your space—we lay down drop cloths to protect your floors and clean up thoroughly when we're finished. We'll give you a clear timeline beforehand so you know exactly what to expect.

Do I need existing ductwork to install a heat pump? No, you don't! This is one of the best features of modern heat pumps. If your mobile home already has ductwork from a previous furnace, a central heat pump is an excellent option that can use that existing infrastructure. If you don't have ducts, a ductless mini-split system is the perfect solution. These systems are incredibly flexible and efficient, allowing us to bring heating and cooling directly into the rooms where you need it most.

How to Install a Heat Pump in a Mobile Home: Step-by-Step