Heat pumps are incredibly efficient — especially in BC’s mild coastal climate. But a common question we get from homeowners in Victoria and Vancouver Island is:
“Do I still need backup heat if I have a heat pump?”
The short answer: maybe. It depends on your home, your comfort expectations, and your heat pump setup. Here’s what you need to know.
❄️ How Heat Pumps Work in Cold Weather
Modern cold-climate heat pumps work down to -20°C or lower. They extract heat from outdoor air, even when it feels freezing. However:
- Efficiency drops as outdoor temps fall
- Some units may struggle to maintain comfort on the coldest nights
- You may feel cooler air blowing from vents compared to a traditional furnace
In Victoria, where winters are generally mild, most quality heat pumps work very well 95% of the year.
🔥 What Is Backup Heat?
Backup (or auxiliary) heat refers to:
- Electric resistance heat strips built into the indoor unit
- A secondary heating system (like baseboards or gas fireplace)
- Portable space heaters (less efficient, but useful in emergencies)
Some central heat pump systems automatically engage backup heat when needed.
🏡 Do You Personally Need Backup Heat?
Ask yourself:
- ✅ Do you live in a rural area prone to power outages?
→ Consider battery storage or propane backup heat. - ✅ Do you need warm air fast, even on the coldest mornings?
→ Backup heat might make you more comfortable. - ✅ Do you already have baseboards or a gas fireplace?
→ Use them only when needed. - ✅ Is your home older, under-insulated, or drafty?
→ You may benefit from backup — or energy upgrades.
💰 Will It Cost More to Run Backup Heat?
Yes — especially if it’s electric resistance heating. That’s why proper heat pump sizing, zoning, and air sealing are key to minimizing backup use.
AE Electric always recommends:
- Heat pumps rated for cold climates
- Zoned mini-splits for targeted heating
- Smart thermostats with backup heat control
🛠️ What AE Electric Can Do
We help homeowners on Vancouver Island design systems that balance:
- Comfort and efficiency
- Cost and resilience
- Long-term performance
We’ll evaluate whether backup heat is needed based on:
- Your home size, layout & insulation
- Your current heating system
- Electrical capacity and usage goals
📍 Serving Victoria & the Island
We install and service heat pump systems in:
- Victoria, Saanich, Langford
- Duncan, Cowichan Valley, Mill Bay
- Tofino, Nanaimo & beyond
📞 Need Advice on Heat Pump Backup?
Contact AE Electric Ltd for a free consultation. We’ll help you design a system that keeps your home warm, efficient — and backed up when it matters most.