The short answer
A ducted heat pump supplies heating and cooling through a central duct system. Existing ducts need assessment: having a furnace today does not automatically make every heat-pump combination suitable.
Treat the ducts as part of the system
Describe rooms that are already too hot, too cold or noisy. Ask the designer to assess airflow, returns and the condition of the distribution system alongside the equipment selection. A new outdoor unit does not by itself resolve an inaccessible return path or an uncomfortable room.
Document the indoor and outdoor arrangement
Provide photographs of the equipment room and possible outdoor locations. Ask about service access, drainage, sound and routing between units. In Burnaby and Coquitlam townhouses, bring strata rules and identify who can approve exterior work before the design is finalized.
Agree on the winter operating plan
Ask how the selected equipment meets the assessed heating demand and whether supplementary heat is included. The quotation should describe thermostat controls, backup operation and commissioning. Request the homeowner handover instructions so you know what normal operation looks like and whom to contact for a fault.
Compare retrofit scopes fairly
Make a list of duct modifications, electrical work, removal of old equipment and any gas decommissioning. Establish who handles each item. Keep manufacturer specifications with the quote and confirm any rebate eligibility directly before treating an incentive as part of the project budget.
Prepare for your assessment
- Duct and return-air concerns
- Indoor cabinet and outdoor location photos
- Strata or landlord requirements
- Preferred backup heating arrangement
Common questions
Can I reuse my furnace ducts?
Possibly. Their airflow capacity and condition must be assessed for the proposed system.
Will one central unit solve every cold room?
Not necessarily. Room loads and distribution problems need to be included in the design.
Continue planning
Sources & further reading
Speak with Robert Hamilton at BeeWarm about your property and confirm availability, qualifications and the accepted scope. Find your Lower Mainland service area.
Published October 8, 2026 by BeeWarm. General planning guidance, not an installation procedure. Exact requirements depend on the equipment, property and authority.