Do heat pumps also cool in summer?

Yes, heat pumps both heat and cool — they're a complete year-round comfort system in a single unit.

A heat pump works by moving heat rather than generating it. In winter, it extracts heat energy from the outdoor air (even in cold temperatures) and transfers it inside your home. In summer, the process simply reverses — it pulls heat from inside your home and moves it outdoors, working exactly like a central air conditioner. You get both functions from one system, controlled through your thermostat just like any other HVAC setup.

This dual functionality is one of the biggest advantages of heat pumps. Instead of maintaining a separate furnace and air conditioner, you have one integrated system handling both seasons. Most modern heat pumps also dehumidify during cooling mode, which makes a real difference in Ottawa's humid summers.

Ottawa-specific context: Ottawa's climate is a consideration when sizing a heat pump. Our winters regularly hit -20°C or colder, which is why cold climate heat pumps (sometimes called "hyper heat" models) are strongly recommended here. These are rated to provide efficient heating down to -25°C or -30°C. Many Ottawa homeowners pair a heat pump with a backup gas furnace in a dual-fuel system, letting the heat pump handle most of the year while the furnace kicks in during the coldest stretches.

Cost-wise, an air source heat pump in Ottawa typically runs $6,000 – $12,000 installed, with cold climate models ranging $8,000 – $15,000. There are also federal and provincial rebates available through programs like the Canada Greener Homes Grant that can offset costs significantly.

If you'd like to explore whether a heat pump makes sense for your home, Ottawa HVAC Pro offers free consultations to walk through your options.