When you decide to upgrade your home’s heating and cooling, practical questions come up fast. Where will the outdoor unit go? How does it connect to the inside? An air source heat pump installation diagram answers these questions visually. It’s a clear plan that shows where every part of your new system belongs and how they work together. Understanding this layout is the first step to appreciating how this technology provides efficient, year-round comfort. We’ll break down a typical diagram to show you how a professional installation ensures your system is set up for success in our Okanagan climate.

Key Takeaways

The Diagram Shows a Two-Part System: A heat pump installation diagram illustrates how two main units—one inside and one outside—are connected by refrigerant lines to move heat, providing both heating and cooling from a single system.
Strategic Placement is Key to Efficiency: Where each component is physically installed directly impacts performance. The outdoor unit needs clear airflow and elevation from snow, while the indoor unit requires a central location for balanced comfort.
A Diagram Isn't a DIY Guide: Proper installation involves complex electrical and refrigerant work that requires a certified professional to ensure safety, system longevity, and warranty protection.

What Is an Air Source Heat Pump?

If you’re looking for a single system to handle both the Okanagan’s hot summers and chilly winters, an air source heat pump is one of the smartest solutions available. Think of it as a high-efficiency, two-in-one heating and cooling system. Instead of burning fuel to create heat like a furnace, a heat pump works by simply moving existing heat from one place to another. In the winter, it pulls warmth from the outside air and brings it inside. In the summer, it reverses the process, pulling heat out of your home to keep you cool. This clever method of transferring heat makes it an incredibly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly way to maintain year-round comfort.

How It Moves Heat

The magic behind a heat pump lies in its ability to move thermal energy using a special refrigerant. This fluid cycles through the system, acting like a sponge to absorb and release heat. The whole operation of a heat pump involves four key steps. First, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the outdoor air in a component called the evaporator. Then, a compressor pressurizes the refrigerant, making it very hot. This hot gas then moves to the indoor condenser, where it releases its heat into your home’s air. Finally, an expansion valve cools the refrigerant back down so it can repeat the cycle.

Your All-in-One Heating and Cooling Solution

The best part about an air source heat pump is its versatility. It’s not just a heater; it’s your air conditioner, too. When summer arrives, the system simply reverses its cycle. The unit inside your home absorbs heat from your indoor air, and the outdoor unit releases that heat outside, leaving your home cool and comfortable. This dual function means you only need to install and maintain one system for your home's heating and cooling. It saves space, simplifies upkeep, and provides an incredibly efficient way to manage your home’s climate, no matter the season.

What Are the Key Parts of a Heat Pump?

At first glance, a heat pump installation diagram can look like a complex web of boxes and lines. But once you know what you’re looking at, it’s actually quite straightforward. Think of a heat pump system as having three main players: an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and the connections that let them talk to each other. Each part has a specific job in the process of moving heat into or out of your home to provide year-round comfort.

Understanding these core components helps you see how your system works as a whole. It’s a clever cycle that provides both efficient heating in the winter and refreshing cooling in the summer, all from a single piece of equipment. This makes it a popular choice for homeowners in the Okanagan looking for an all-in-one solution. Let’s break down what each part does and where you’ll find it in a typical installation.

The Outdoor Unit

This is the part of the system you’re probably most familiar with—the large metal box with a fan that sits outside your house. The outdoor unit is the workhorse of the heat pump. In winter, its job is to pull heat from the outside air, even when it feels cold to us. A fan draws air across a coil filled with refrigerant, which absorbs the thermal energy. In summer, the process reverses, and this unit releases heat from your home into the outdoors. Modern cold-climate heat pumps are incredibly efficient and can perform this heat exchange in temperatures as low as -25°C.

The Indoor Unit

The indoor unit, often called the air handler, is responsible for distributing the comfortable air throughout your home. After the refrigerant has collected heat from outside, it travels to this indoor unit, which then transfers that heat into your home’s air. This unit can be connected to your existing ductwork, just like a traditional furnace, or it can be a wall-mounted head in a ductless "mini-split" system. Its sole purpose is to deliver the heating or cooling generated by the system, ensuring every room feels just right.

The Lines and Controls Connecting Everything

Connecting the indoor and outdoor units is a set of copper pipes called the refrigerant lines. These lines are the highway that the system’s refrigerant travels on. This special fluid is the key to the whole process; it circulates in a continuous loop, absorbing heat in one location and releasing it in another. The system also includes a compressor, condenser, and expansion valve that work together to change the refrigerant’s pressure and temperature. Finally, your thermostat acts as the brain, telling the system when to turn on and whether to heat or cool, completing the entire circuit.

How to Read a Heat Pump Installation Diagram

A heat pump installation diagram can look complicated, but it’s really just a simple map of your system. Think of it as a blueprint for your home’s comfort, showing where every key part lives and how they connect to provide efficient heating and cooling. Understanding this layout helps you appreciate the technology at work and makes it easier to talk with your technician about the installation process.

Understanding the Layout

First, know that an air source heat pump is a "split system," meaning it has two main sections: an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The diagram shows how they connect. Unlike a furnace that creates heat, a heat pump moves existing warmth from one place to another. In winter, it pulls heat from the outside air and transfers it inside. In summer, it reverses the process, pulling heat out of your home to cool it down. The diagram simply illustrates this clever two-way street for heat, showing the path it takes to keep you comfortable.

Locating Each Component

Every diagram points out four essential components. The outdoor unit houses the compressor (the heart of the system) and a coil that acts as the condenser or evaporator depending on the season. Inside, the indoor unit has another coil and an expansion valve. Together, they manage the refrigerant—the fluid that absorbs and releases heat. The diagram shows how this refrigerant cycles through these parts, changing from a liquid to a gas and back again as it efficiently transfers warmth exactly where you want it.

Tracing the Power and Refrigerant Lines

The lines connecting everything are the system’s circulatory and nervous systems. You’ll see two main types on the diagram: refrigerant and electrical. The refrigerant lines are copper tubes that act as a highway for the refrigerant to travel between the indoor and outdoor units, physically moving the heat. The electrical lines provide power and connect the system to your thermostat, which is the brain of the operation. Tracing these paths on the diagram helps you see exactly how your heating and cooling system is integrated into your home.

Where Should Each Part of Your Heat Pump Go?

Once you understand the components on a diagram, the next logical question is: where does everything actually go? The placement of your heat pump’s indoor and outdoor units isn’t arbitrary—it’s a critical factor that directly impacts your system's efficiency, effectiveness, and lifespan. A professional installer considers everything from airflow and accessibility to local climate conditions (hello, Okanagan snow!) to find the perfect spot for each component. Getting the location right from the start ensures you get the comfort and energy savings you expect.

Proper placement is one of the most important parts of a successful installation. It prevents common issues like poor performance and premature wear. Let’s break down the ideal location for each key part of your new air source heat pump system.

Positioning the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit, or condenser, is the powerhouse of your heat pump, and it needs room to breathe. A technician will find a spot with plenty of clearance, away from obstructions like fences, dense shrubs, or buildings that could block airflow. It also needs to be installed on a solid, level surface—like a purpose-built concrete pad or sturdy wall brackets—to minimize vibrations and noise.

Here in the Okanagan, we also have to account for winter. The unit must be elevated high enough off the ground so that snow accumulation won’t bury it, ensuring it can function properly even on the coldest days. A professional will help you choose a location that is both effective and discreet, keeping your yard looking its best while your system runs smoothly.

Placing the Indoor Unit

The indoor unit, or air handler, is responsible for distributing all that comfortable air throughout your home. For this reason, it should be installed in a central location where it can circulate air evenly. High on a wall in a main living area or a central hallway is often the best choice for ductless mini-split systems.

It’s just as important to know where not to place it. You’ll want to avoid putting the indoor unit near direct heat sources like a fireplace, in direct sunlight, or in areas with high humidity. These factors can trick the thermostat into thinking the room is warmer than it is, causing the system to run improperly. The goal is consistent comfort in every corner, and the right placement makes that possible.

Routing the Refrigerant Lines

Connecting the indoor and outdoor units is a set of refrigerant lines. Think of these as the veins of your heat pump, carrying heat between the two components. For maximum efficiency, this line set should be as short and direct as possible. A professional installer will carefully route the lines to minimize bends and kinks, which can restrict refrigerant flow and strain the system.

These lines also need to be properly insulated to prevent energy loss and protected from the elements. Your technician will ensure they are securely fastened so they don’t move or get damaged over time. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the long-term health and performance of your heat pump.

What Does a Professional Installation Look Like?

A heat pump installation is a precise job that involves careful planning, electrical work, and handling refrigerant—all reasons why it should always be left to a certified professional. A proper installation is the key to ensuring your system runs efficiently, safely, and, just as importantly, that your manufacturer’s warranty remains valid. At TruFinity, our NATE-certified technicians follow a meticulous process to guarantee your new system is set up for success and provides reliable, year-round comfort. From the first measurement to the final walkthrough, we handle every detail so you can feel confident in your home’s new heating and cooling system. Here’s a look at the three main stages of a professional installation.

Step 1: The Home Assessment and System Sizing

This is arguably the most critical step in the entire process. Before any equipment is ordered, a professional technician will perform a thorough home assessment. This isn't just a quick glance; we evaluate your home's insulation, window quality, square footage, and existing ductwork to calculate its specific heating and cooling load. Based on this detailed analysis, we can recommend the right-sized system for your needs. An undersized unit will struggle on the coldest Okanagan days, while an oversized one will cycle on and off too frequently, wasting energy and causing premature wear. We’ll also identify if any upgrades are needed to get the most out of your new heat pump system.

Step 2: Mounting and Connecting the Components

Once we’ve selected the perfect system for your home, the physical installation begins. This part of the process typically takes a few days, and your primary heating source will be turned off during this time. If the installation happens during a cold snap, your installer can often provide temporary electric heaters to keep you comfortable. Our team will carefully mount the outdoor unit on a sturdy, level pad and place the indoor unit in its designated spot. Then, we’ll expertly run the refrigerant lines and electrical wiring between the two, ensuring all connections are secure, sealed, and up to code. This is a delicate process that requires certified expertise to prevent leaks and ensure safe operation.

Step 3: The Final Test Run

With everything connected, it’s time for commissioning. This is much more than just flipping a switch. Our technician will power up the system and run a series of diagnostic tests to check refrigerant pressures, airflow, and electrical performance, making sure every component is working exactly as the manufacturer intended. Once we’ve confirmed it’s running at peak efficiency, we’ll walk you through the controls and show you how to operate your new thermostat. We’ll also provide all the warranty information and explain how our TruLoyalty+ Membership can help you protect your investment with regular tune-ups and priority service.

Can a Heat Pump Handle a Cold Canadian Winter?

It’s one of the first questions we hear from Okanagan homeowners, and it’s a great one. The idea of relying on a single system for both heating and cooling sounds efficient, but the thought of our cold, snowy winters can make anyone hesitate. For years, the answer might have been different, but modern heat pump technology has completely changed the game. The short answer is yes, a heat pump can absolutely handle a Canadian winter, especially when it’s the right model and installed by professionals who understand our local climate.

The key is choosing a cold-climate air source heat pump. These aren't the same units that were popular a decade or two ago; they are specifically engineered to extract heat from the air even when the temperature drops well below freezing. At TruFinity, we specialize in installing high-performance systems from trusted brands like Lennox and Bosch that are designed to keep Okanagan homes warm and comfortable all winter long. A professional installation ensures your system is correctly sized for your home’s unique needs, giving you reliable performance no matter what the weather brings.

How They Perform When Temperatures Drop

You might be wondering how a heat pump can possibly find heat in freezing cold air. It works by using a special refrigerant that has a very low boiling point. Even on a frigid day, this refrigerant can absorb thermal energy from the outside air. The system then compresses the refrigerant, which dramatically increases its temperature, and transfers that heat inside your home.

Modern cold-climate heat pumps are incredibly efficient at this process. In fact, the systems we install are designed to be effective in cold climates down to -25°C. This isn't just a theoretical number—it's a proven capability that gives you peace of mind during those deep winter freezes in Kelowna or Vernon.

Common Winter Myths—Busted

Let's clear up a few common misconceptions about heat pumps and winter. The biggest myth is that they simply stop working in the cold. While first-generation models did struggle, today’s technology is far more advanced. Another myth is that you need a brand-new, perfectly sealed home for a heat pump to be effective. While good insulation always helps any heating system, a heat pump can be sized to work beautifully in a wide variety of homes.

You don't have to renovate your entire house to benefit from a heat pump. A professional assessment will determine the right unit for your home's specific layout, age, and insulation levels, ensuring you get consistent, efficient heat all season.

What Are the Perks of Installing a Heat Pump?

Beyond providing consistent, year-round comfort, switching to an air source heat pump is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for your home. It’s a decision that pays off in two major ways: it keeps more money in your pocket through incredible energy efficiency, and it helps you build a more sustainable, eco-friendly home. For homeowners in the Okanagan, the combination of long-term savings and significant government rebates makes it an especially compelling choice. Let’s break down exactly what you stand to gain.

Lower Energy Bills and Long-Term Savings

The biggest and most immediate benefit you’ll notice is the drop in your monthly energy bills. Unlike traditional furnaces that burn fuel to create heat, a heat pump works by moving existing heat from one place to another. In the winter, it pulls warmth from the outside air (even when it’s cold!) and transfers it inside. In the summer, it reverses the process for efficient cooling. This transfer method is far more efficient than generation, meaning the system uses a small amount of electricity to move a large amount of thermal energy. This high efficiency translates directly into lower operational costs and significant savings over the lifespan of the unit.

A Greener Home (Plus Available Rebates)

Choosing a heat pump is a powerful step toward reducing your home’s carbon footprint. Because they run on electricity and don’t burn fossil fuels like natural gas or oil, they produce zero onsite emissions. As our electrical grid becomes greener, your home’s heating system gets cleaner, too. To encourage this shift, provincial and federal governments offer substantial incentives. Homeowners in British Columbia can access rebates that can cover a significant portion of the installation cost—sometimes up to $24,000. This financial support makes a high-efficiency system more accessible than ever, allowing you to invest in a greener future for your family and community without breaking the bank.

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a clear diagram, a heat pump installation is a complex job where small mistakes can lead to big problems. Getting it right from the start saves you from future headaches, high energy bills, and surprise repair calls. A professional installer knows how to avoid these common pitfalls, but it’s helpful for you to know what they are, too. Here are the two most critical areas where things can go wrong: getting the size and placement right, and handling the technical connections with precision. These issues highlight why a diagram is just a map—it takes an experienced guide to complete the journey safely and effectively.

Wrong Size, Wrong Place

It might seem like "bigger is better," but when it comes to a heat pump, the right size is the only size that works. A system that’s too large will cycle on and off constantly, wasting energy and failing to dehumidify your home properly. One that’s too small will run nonstop without ever making you comfortable. A professional performs a detailed load calculation to match the unit to your home's specific needs. Equally important is choosing a model built for our Okanagan winters and placing the outdoor unit where it has proper airflow, away from potential snow drifts and debris.

Electrical and Refrigerant Connection Errors

This is where an installation goes from a DIY challenge to a serious safety risk. The electrical wiring for a heat pump must be handled perfectly to prevent system failures or, worse, a fire hazard. Licensed technicians ensure everything is connected safely and up to code. Similarly, the refrigerant lines that connect the indoor and outdoor units are the heart of the system. If they aren't sealed perfectly, refrigerant can leak out, leading to poor performance and potential damage to the compressor. Proper heating services require specialized tools and expertise to get these critical connections right.

Why You Should Always Hire a Pro for Installation

While it can be tempting to tackle home projects yourself, a heat pump installation isn't the place to cut corners. This is a complex system that involves high-voltage electrical work, specialized refrigerant handling, and precise calibration to ensure it runs efficiently for years to come. A professional installation is more than just a convenience—it's a critical investment in your home's safety, comfort, and long-term value. Hiring a certified technician ensures every component is installed correctly, meets local codes, and performs exactly as the manufacturer intended. At TruFinity, our NATE- and EPA-certified technicians have the training and local experience to get the job done right, giving you total peace of mind.

To Ensure Safety and Code Compliance

A heat pump that’s installed incorrectly isn't just inefficient; it can be dangerous. Mistakes with high-voltage wiring can create serious fire hazards, while improperly handled refrigerant is harmful to both you and the environment. Professional installers understand the strict safety protocols and local building codes here in the Okanagan. They ensure your system has the correct electrical disconnects, proper ventilation, and secure mounting. An expert will also make sure the unit is sized perfectly for your home. A system that's too big or too small can lead to poor air quality and unnecessary strain on the components, creating safety issues down the line.

To Protect Your Warranty and System Performance

Most heat pump manufacturers, including top brands like Lennox and Bosch, require installation by a licensed professional for the warranty to be valid. A DIY installation or one done by an uncertified handyman could leave you without coverage if a part fails. Beyond the warranty, a professional installation is key to the system's performance. Common mistakes like improper refrigerant charging or poor electrical connections can lead to higher energy bills, inconsistent temperatures, and a shorter lifespan for your equipment. When you work with TruFinity, we not only protect your manufacturer's warranty but also stand by our work. Our TruLoyalty+ members even receive a two-year labor warranty on repairs for added protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a typical heat pump installation take? A standard heat pump installation is usually completed within a few days. The exact timeline depends on the complexity of the job, such as whether we are connecting to existing ductwork or installing a new ductless system. Our team handles every step, from safely removing any old equipment to carefully connecting and testing the new units, ensuring everything is perfect before we consider the job done.

Can a heat pump work with my existing furnace? Absolutely. This setup is called a dual-fuel system, and it's a popular choice here in the Okanagan. The heat pump acts as your primary source for both heating and cooling, handling the vast majority of the year with incredible efficiency. Your furnace then serves as a reliable backup that can kick in automatically during the most extreme cold snaps, giving you total peace of mind.

Are heat pumps noisy? Modern heat pumps are designed to be remarkably quiet. The sound from the outdoor unit is often compared to that of a refrigerator or a high-efficiency air conditioner. Proper installation plays a huge role in minimizing noise, as a securely mounted unit on a solid, level pad will produce far fewer vibrations. We always work with you to find a placement that reduces any potential sound disruption.

What kind of maintenance does a heat pump require? Heat pump maintenance is quite straightforward. As a homeowner, your main job is to keep the filters clean and ensure the outdoor unit is clear of leaves, snow, and other debris to maintain good airflow. We also strongly recommend a professional tune-up once a year to check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical connections, and clean the coils to keep the system running at peak efficiency.

How much space is needed for the outdoor unit? The outdoor unit needs enough room to breathe. A good rule of thumb is to have at least a couple of feet of open space around all sides of the unit to ensure proper airflow. It also needs to be placed on a level pad and elevated enough to stay clear of snow accumulation in the winter. During our home assessment, we’ll find the ideal spot that is both effective for the system and convenient for you.

How to Read an Air Source Heat Pump Installation Diagram