# Best Heat Pump Brands for Ontario Winters

> The best heat pump for an Ontario winter is a cold-climate, variable-speed model that's sized and installed for your home, whatever the brand. In Lancaster's lineup, Carrier's Infinity Ultimate Cold Climate keeps 100% heating capacity down to -18°C, Goodman's GZV9S heats down to -29°C and Trane's Premier 20 meets ENERGY STAR Cold Climate requirements. For ductless, Carrier's Infinity mini-split keeps full heating capacity down to -30°C.

Source: https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/best-heat-pump-brands/
Last updated: 2026-11-02

**Short answer:** The best heat pump for an Ontario winter is a cold-climate, variable-speed model that's sized
and installed for your home. Trane, Carrier and Goodman each make one. In our lineup, Carrier's Infinity Ultimate Cold Climate
keeps 100% heating capacity down to -18°C (0°F),
Goodman's GZV9S heats down to -29°C (-20°F) and Trane's Premier 20 meets ENERGY STAR Cold Climate requirements.
For ductless, Carrier's Infinity mini-split keeps full heating capacity down to -30°C (-22°F).

Lancaster is an authorized dealer for every brand in this guide. It compares the heat pumps in [our catalog](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/heat-pumps/)
using the manufacturers' published specs. New to heat pumps? Start with [how heat pumps work](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/how-heat-pumps-work/) or
[heat pump vs. furnace vs. hybrid](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/heat-pump-vs-furnace/).

## How to read cold-climate specs

Manufacturers don't all publish the same cold-weather numbers, so compare carefully:

- **Full-capacity temperature:** the coldest temperature at which the heat pump still delivers 100% of its rated
  heat. This is the most useful number when you can find it.
- **Minimum operating temperature:** the coldest temperature at which it keeps heating at all, at reduced output.
- **Capacity at 5°F (-15°C):** the share of rated heat it keeps at -15°C. ENERGY STAR's cold-climate designation
  requires at least 70% ([ENERGY STAR](https://www.energystar.gov/sites/default/files/asset/document/ENERGY%20STAR%20Cold%20Climate%20Heat%20Pump%20Controls%20Verification%20Procedure_1.pdf)).
- **HSPF2:** seasonal heating efficiency. Published US ratings use a milder climate region than the one Canada
  uses for its own efficiency rules
  ([Natural Resources Canada](https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-regulations/central-air-conditioners-heat-pumps)),
  so treat HSPF2 as a way to compare models, not a prediction for a Hamilton January.

## Ducted heat pumps compared

| Model | Tier | Compressor | SEER2 | HSPF2 | Cold-weather rating (as published) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| [Carrier Infinity Ultimate Cold Climate 27VNA1](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/infinity-variable-speed-ultimate-cold-climate-heat/) | Premium | Variable (30–100%) | 21.2 | 12.5 | 100% capacity to -18°C (0°F); heats to -31°C (-23°F) |
| [Carrier Infinity 27VNA3](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/infinity-variable-speed-heat-pump/) | Premium | Variable (20–100%) | 23 | 10.5 | Heats to -25°C (-13°F); ENERGY STAR Cold Climate |
| [Trane Premier 20](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/trane/premier-20-trucomfort-variable-speed-heat-pump/) | Premium | Variable (25–100%) | 22.4 | 10.5 | 70% capacity at -15°C (5°F); 100% to 0°C (32°F); ENERGY STAR Cold Climate |
| [Goodman GZV9S](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/gzv9s-all-climate-heat-pump/) | Premium | Variable | 21 | 10 | Heats to -29°C (-20°F) |
| [Goodman GZV7S](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/gzv7s-inverter-heat-pump/) | Premium | Variable | 19 | 8.8 | At least 70% capacity at -15°C (5°F); ENERGY STAR Cold Climate |
| [Goodman GZV6S](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/gzv6s-inverter-heat-pump/) | Premium | Variable | 19 | 8.8 | Heats to -23°C (-10°F) |
| [Carrier Performance 19 27VPA9](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/performance-19-variable-speed-heat-pump/) | Mid-range | Variable | 19 | 10 | ENERGY STAR Cold Climate |
| [Trane Priority 17](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/trane/priority-17-multi-speed-heat-pump/) | Mid-range | Multi-speed (70/100%) | 17.1 | 11 | 70% capacity at -15°C (5°F); 100% to -3°C (27°F) |

All ratings are "up to" figures for specific matched indoor units. Compare by brand:
[Trane](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/trane/heat-pumps/), [Carrier](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/heat-pumps/) and
[Goodman](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/heat-pumps/).

## Single-stage and two-stage heat pumps

Not every home needs a premium cold-climate unit. Two-stage models such as the
[Carrier Performance 27TPA8](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/performance-2-stage-heat-pump/) (up to 18.5 SEER2, 8.5 HSPF2) and
[Goodman GLZT7C](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/glzt7c-two-stage-heat-pump/) (up to 17.5 SEER2, 8.2 HSPF2), and single-stage
models such as the [Carrier Comfort 27SCA5](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/comfort-heat-pump/),
[Goodman GLZS5B](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/glzs5b-heat-pump/) and [Goodman GLZS4B](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/glzs4b-heat-pump/),
work well as part of a hybrid system, where a gas furnace takes over on the coldest days. Carrier lists the
27TPA8 as Hybrid Heat compatible, and Trane suggests pairing the Priority 17 with a gas furnace for long, very
cold winters.

## Brand by brand

**Carrier** has the widest cold-climate range in our catalog. The Infinity Ultimate Cold Climate is built for
sub-freezing heating and comes in one size. Carrier lists the Infinity 27VNA3 and the Performance 19 as meeting
ENERGY STAR Cold Climate criteria in all sizes. Infinity models add over-the-air software updates, Quiet Mode and
advanced defrost, and the Performance 19 supports remote dealer diagnostics through InteliSense.

**Trane's** Premier 20 has a sound power rating from 51 dB, and Trane says it holds within half a degree of the
setpoint. The Priority 17 is 24V compatible, so it can work
with your existing furnace and two-stage thermostat.

**Goodman's** inverter heat pumps go as low as 45 dBA in quiet mode. The GZV9S All-Climate model uses a hot gas
base pan instead of an extra drain pan heater down to -15°C (5°F) and works with ComfortBridge and the Goodman
GTST thermostat.

## Ductless mini-splits compared

| Model | Tier | SEER2 | HSPF2 | Cold-weather rating (as published) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| [Carrier Infinity 37MPRA](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/infinity-mini-split-heat-pump/) | Premium | Up to 35.1 | Confirm with us | 100% heating to -30°C (-22°F); built-in base pan heater |
| [Carrier Performance 37MARA](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/performance-mini-split-heat-pump/) | Mid-range | Up to 26 | Up to 13.9 | Operates to -25°C (-13°F); works with eight indoor unit types |
| [Carrier Comfort 37MHRAQ](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/carrier/comfort-mini-split-heat-pump/) | Standard | Up to 22.4 | Up to 9.4 | Not published |
| [Goodman 20 Series single-zone](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/20-series-ductless-mini-split/) | Not tiered | 19.5–20 | 9.3–10 | Heats to -25°C (-13°F); ENERGY STAR Cold Climate; drain pan heater |
| [Goodman 20 Series multi-zone](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/goodman/20-series-ductless-multi-split/) | Not tiered | Up to 20.5 | 10 | ENERGY STAR Cold Climate; two zones from one outdoor unit |

Carrier's published HSPF2 figures for the Infinity mini-split differ between sources, so we'll confirm the rating
for your pairing. Goodman's single-zone indoor units run as quietly as 19 dBA. See all
[ductless mini-splits](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/products/ductless/) and our [ductless heat pump service](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/heat-pumps/ductless/). Our online
catalog doesn't list Trane ductless models yet, so ask us about current options.

## Warranty

As published by the manufacturers:

- **Carrier:** Consumer Choice Warranty on most models (with timely registration, a 10-year parts limited warranty
  or 5-year parts plus 3-year labour where the dealer participates). Both Infinity ducted heat pumps add a 10-year
  unit replacement limited warranty for compressor failures. The Comfort 27SCA5 has a 10-year parts limited
  warranty with timely registration.
- **Goodman:** 10-year parts limited warranty with online registration within 60 days. The GZV and GLZT7C models
  add a 5-year unit replacement limited warranty.
- **Trane:** ask us for the current terms on your model.

## Why sizing and installation matter in cold climates

A heat pump sized only for summer cooling can come up short in January; one sized too large can short-cycle in
spring and fall. A load calculation for your home sets the right capacity and the temperature at which backup
heat or a furnace takes over. Outdoor unit placement matters too: it needs clearance above snow and drifting, and
somewhere for defrost water to drain. New systems use lower-GWP refrigerants (R-454B or R-32 in our lineup); see
the [refrigerant regulations](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/new-refrigerant-regulations/).

## Rebates

The Home Renovation Savings Program covers cold-climate air-source heat pumps, ducted or ductless, when the model
is on Natural Resources Canada's eligible list, and a participating contractor must get written pre-approval
before work starts. A new federal National Heat Pump Rebate covers eligible installations from November 1, 2026.
See current amounts and rules on our [rebates page](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/rebates/).

## Which should you choose?

- **No natural gas (electric, oil or propane heat):** a premium cold-climate model such as the Carrier Infinity
  Ultimate Cold Climate or Goodman GZV9S.
- **Gas furnace in good shape:** a mid-range or two-stage heat pump as a hybrid system, such as the Trane
  Priority 17 or Carrier Performance 27TPA8.
- **Quiet, steady comfort:** Trane Premier 20 or Carrier Infinity 27VNA3.
- **No ducts, an addition or a problem room:** a ductless mini-split from Carrier or Goodman.

Every home is different. We'll recommend a heat pump for your home and confirm rebate eligibility.
[Explore heat pumps](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/heat-pumps/), [request a quote](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/quote/), or ask about
[financing](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/financing/).

## Cold-climate heat pump questions

### Which heat pump brand works best in the cold?

Each major brand now makes a model built for cold climates, so compare models rather than brands. In our lineup, Carrier's Infinity Ultimate Cold Climate keeps 100% heating capacity down to -18°C and Goodman's GZV9S heats down to -29°C. Trane's Premier 20 meets ENERGY STAR Cold Climate requirements. Sizing and installation decide how well any of them performs.

### What does ENERGY STAR Cold Climate mean?

It's a designation for heat pumps that keep a large share of their heating output in cold weather. One of the key tests compares heating capacity at 5°F (-15°C) with capacity at 47°F (8°C), and a qualifying heat pump must deliver at least 70%. Trane, Carrier and Goodman each list cold-climate models, and the designation is a useful shortcut when you shop.

### Why does a heat pump lose heating capacity in very cold weather?

A heat pump moves heat from the outdoor air into your home. The colder the air, the less heat there is to collect and the harder the compressor has to work. Cold-climate models use variable-speed compressors, and some use vapour injection, to keep more output at low temperatures. Below a certain point, a backup heat source or a furnace takes over.

### Should I choose a ducted or ductless heat pump?

If your home has ducts in good condition, a ducted heat pump heats and cools every room through the existing vents, with one outdoor unit. Ductless mini-splits suit homes without ducts, such as those heated by boilers or baseboards, and additions or rooms that never feel right. Many homes combine the two. We'll look at your ducts and layout before recommending either.

### Do Trane, Carrier and Goodman heat pumps qualify for Ontario rebates?

Many of their cold-climate models can. The Home Renovation Savings Program covers cold-climate air-source heat pumps, ducted or ductless, if the specific model is on Natural Resources Canada's eligible product list and meets the program's minimum efficiency. Eligibility depends on the exact outdoor and indoor pairing, so we confirm it for your model before you commit. See our [rebates guide](https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/rebates/).

### What is a base pan heater on a heat pump?

In winter, a heat pump's outdoor unit defrosts itself from time to time, and the meltwater can refreeze in the base of the cabinet. A base pan or drain pan heater keeps that water from building up as ice. Carrier's Infinity mini-split and Goodman's 20 Series ductless systems have one built in, and Goodman's GZV9S uses hot refrigerant gas for the same job down to 5°F (-15°C).

### Is a higher HSPF2 always better for Ontario?

Higher is better, but it isn't the whole story. HSPF2 ratings published in brochures are calculated for a milder climate region than most of Canada, so they don't show how a heat pump performs on our coldest days. For an Ontario home, look at the HSPF2 together with the model's low-temperature capacity, minimum operating temperature and ENERGY STAR Cold Climate status.

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**Lancaster Heating and Cooling** — HVAC contractor serving Hamilton, Niagara and surrounding areas since 1955.
Phone (24/7 emergency): 905-388-3333 · Email: info@lancasterhvac.ca
Address: 1250 Stone Church Rd. E, Hamilton, ON L8W 2C8, Canada · Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00AM – 4:30PM
Request a quote: https://lancasterheatingandcooling.ca/quote/