Quebec has hundreds of thousands of homes heated with electric baseboards, making this one of the most promising markets for contractors. Yet many contractors present the conversion from electric baseboards to a heat pump as a simple equipment upgrade instead of a worthwhile investment. Here is a structured sales pitch to help turn that potential into signed contracts.
Why Baseboard-Heated Homes Are Your Best Target
A household with electric baseboards pays the full electricity rate for heating, with a one-to-one energy conversion: 1 kWh of electricity provides 1 kWh of heat. A heat pump, however, delivers several units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed, thanks to its coefficient of performance (COP).
The customer is not simply replacing a piece of equipment, they are changing the economics of their heating system. This is the simplest and strongest argument.
Four Arguments That Win Customers
1. Immediate Heating Savings
A heat pump replaces much of the costly baseboard heating with high-efficiency heating. Present the estimated annual savings in dollars rather than as an abstract percentage. A concrete amount is easier for every customer to understand.
2. Air Conditioning Included
The same system provides cooling in summer. Customers address two needs, winter and summer comfort, with a single investment. That is a benefit electric baseboards can never provide.
3. Rebates That Reduce the Net Cost
Hydro-Québec programs, including LogisVert, provide financial assistance for eligible heat pump installations. Include the estimated rebate directly in the quote to show the customer’s net cost. This is the figure that drives the decision. Always verify the current program requirements.
4. Greater Comfort and Resale Value
More consistent heating, filtered air and summer cooling all improve comfort. A home equipped with a heat pump may also be more attractive to buyers than one heated exclusively with electric baseboards.
Addressing Common Objections
- “It’s expensive.” Present the net cost after rebates and available financing options. Customers often make their decision based on the monthly payment rather than the full purchase price.
- “Will it really heat my home in winter?” Yes, when a properly sized cold-climate model is selected. See our article about performance in extreme cold.
- “Do I keep my baseboards?” Yes. They can remain as backup heating for the coldest days. The customer loses nothing and gains a more efficient primary heating system.
When a Dual-System Approach Makes Sense
For larger homes or customers who want an additional margin of security, the heat pump can cover most of the heating season while the baseboards take over below the system’s balance point. This is often the most economical configuration.
Which Models Should You Recommend?
- AUHW R32 mini-split: Excellent heating efficiency for one or several zones.
- R32 multi-zone system: Conditions multiple rooms using a single outdoor unit.
- WILLIS R32 central system: Designed for homes where a central solution is appropriate.
👉 Discover our single-zone mini-split collection and the WILLIS R32 central system.
FAQ
Why Convert Electric Baseboards to a Heat Pump?
A heat pump delivers significantly more efficient heating than electric baseboards, provides cooling in summer and may qualify for rebates—all of which can substantially reduce the customer’s energy costs.
Do the Baseboards Need to Be Removed?
No. They are generally kept as backup heating for the coldest days, when outdoor temperatures fall below the heat pump’s balance point.
Is the Conversion Eligible for Rebates?
Eligible heat pumps may qualify for Hydro-Québec programs. Always confirm the current requirements and include the estimated financial assistance when presenting the net cost in your quote.