At Handy Bros., we’ve installed thousands of heat pumps and furnace systems across Southwestern Ontario, and here’s what we can tell you: when done right, a heat pump and furnace combo can be one of the smartest home comfort decisions you’ll ever make. But understanding the true cost involves more than just a price tag—it means looking at your long-term comfort, your home’s efficiency, and whether you’re working with the right HVAC partner.
Why a Heat Pump + Furnace Combo Makes Sense in Southwestern Ontario
Our region throws everything at us—frigid winters, mild shoulder seasons, and humid summers. That makes a dual-fuel system (heat pump + furnace) a powerful option. Here’s why:
- Mild Days? The heat pump handles heating efficiently without firing up your furnace.
- Bitter Cold? The furnace kicks in to keep your home warm no matter what.
- Year-Round Efficiency: In the summer, the heat pump also acts as your central air conditioner.
For places like Chatham‑Kent, London, Windsor, and surrounding areas, this combo hits the sweet spot: flexible, efficient, and reliable comfort.
What Does a Heat Pump and Furnace Combo Cost?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but we can give you some solid guidance. For a typical Southwestern Ontario home:
- Base Installation: $10,000–$18,000 (depending on home size, insulation, ductwork, and equipment efficiency)
- High-Efficiency Upgrade: + $2,000–$4,000
- Electrical or Ductwork Modifications (if needed): + $1,000–$3,000
Handy Bros. Bonus: Our POD System and AAA Certified process keeps installation time to just one day—saving you money on labour and disruption.
What Impacts Combo System Cost the Most?
Here are the biggest cost drivers:
- System Size: Bigger isn’t always better. We properly size every system based on your home’s needs.
- Efficiency Ratings: SEER, HSPF (heat pump) and AFUE (furnace) levels change upfront price and long-term savings.
- Electrical Needs: Older panels might need upgrades for the heat pump.
- Ductwork Condition: Poor airflow = higher energy bills. We test and optimize all ductwork.
- Installer Expertise: Poor installation wastes money every year. That’s why our AAA Certification is non-negotiable.
Real Value: True Cost Over 10 Years
Let’s look beyond installation.
Scenario: Typical 2,000 sq ft Home
| System Type | Install Cost | 10‑Year Energy Cost | Maintenance | Total 10‑Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furnace Only | $6,000 | $20,000 | $2,500 | $28,500 |
| Heat Pump Only | $12,000 | $13,000 | $3,000 | $28,000 |
| Combo (Dual-Fuel) | $15,000 | $11,000 | $2,500 | $28,500 |
All options land in the same ballpark—but the combo system delivers year‑round comfort, fuel flexibility, and more efficiency.
The Handy Bros. Installation Advantage
We don’t just install. We engineer comfort.
How We Do It DIFFERENTLY:
- CHISEL System: Every job is prepped to perfection with our in‑house systems for speed and precision.
- POD System: Fully-loaded installation pods mean our crews are in and out same-day—no mess, no waste.
- AAA Certification: Every team member is trained 200+ hours a year through Handy Bros. Academy. You get consistent, top‑tier workmanship—guaranteed.
- Video-Verified Installs: Every install is recorded, checked, and signed off before we call it complete.
Who Should Consider a Combo System?
This system is perfect for:
- Homeowners who want maximum energy savings without sacrificing cold-weather performance
- Families in Chatham-Kent, London, Windsor, or anywhere in Southwestern Ontario looking for year‑round comfort
- Anyone replacing an old furnace and A/C who wants future‑proof technology
- Eco-conscious homeowners looking to reduce carbon footprint
Still Not Sure If It’s Right For You?
Our team can assess your home and help you decide:
- Whether your ductwork and electrical setup are ready
- What equipment sizes and models best fit your space
- What rebates or incentives you may qualify for
- What your 10‑year energy costs could look like
Book Your Comfort Consultation Today
At Handy Bros., we’re not here to “sell” you a system. We’re here to build comfort that lasts—and we’ve been doing it DIFFERENTLY since 1959. If you’re curious about whether a heat pump and furnace combo system makes sense for your home, let’s talk.
Book your free Comfort Consultation today. Our team of AAA Certified experts will walk you through every option—so you can make the best choice for your home, your family, and your future.