Frequently Asked Questions

A solar heat pump for cooling and heating combines the efficiency of a heat pump with the power of solar energy to cool and heat your home. While a traditional heat pump transfers heat from the outside air to your home in winter and releases it in summer, a solar heat pump goes a step further by using solar panels to power the system. This reduces your reliance on the grid and cuts down on energy costs.

Ecosolaris’ heat pump can operate in 3 different modes: hybrid (DC-AC), solar-only (DC only), or with a battery backup.

1- Hybrid mode: The system is uniquely engineered to use DC power (produced by solar panels) as its main energy source, and seamlessly draws from the grid (AC power) when solar power is unavailable or insufficient. This hybrid DC-AC capability ensures that your home stays comfortable day and night, all year long. 

2- Solar-only mode: Another option is for the heat pump to be powered solely by DC power from solar panels. The heat pump won’t be connected to the grid and will not function at night or when there’s no sun.

3- Battery backup: In the final scenario, the heat pump offers complete grid independence and runs on battery power, which is charged by solar panels, ensuring continuous cooling or heating—even at night or during power outages—without any reliance on the grid.

In short, ducted systems use ducts for air distribution, while ductless systems deliver air directly from indoor air handling units.

One of the most popular types of heat pumps for cooling and heating is the mini-split system, which is compact and easy to install. It has two main components, an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, which are connected by a small conduit running through a shared wall. This conduit contains refrigerant lines and a power and signal cable.

• Cost Savings: By harnessing the sun's free energy, you drastically reduce your energy costs, which, in most cases, account for more than half of your energy bill! During the day, solar energy powers the system, cutting down on grid usage by up to 100% during sunny periods and saving you a lot of money.
• Energy Efficiency: With an impressive SEER2 of up to 23.4, our solar heat pump uses both the power of solar panels and the efficiency of heat pump technology to heat and cool your property. This dual approach reduces your reliance on the grid and lowers energy consumption, making it a highly efficient system.
• Environmentally Friendly: Solar heat pumps are a greener alternative to traditional HVAC systems. By using renewable solar energy, they lower your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly home. Our heat pump uses R32 refrigerant, for an even lower environmental impact. R32 is a more environmentally friendly option than R410A due to its lower GWP, ease of recyclability, and higher energy efficiency
• Year-Round Comfort: The heat pump works efficiently in both winter and summer, providing consistent comfort throughout the year. Whether you need heating in the colder months or cooling in the summer, the heat pump adapts to your needs.
• Reliability: With its hybrid DC-AC power system, the solar heat pump ensures continuous operation. It will automatically draw from grid power when solar energy is unavailable, providing reliable performance day and night, in all weather conditions.
• Increased Home Value: Installing a solar heat pump can increase the value of your property by improving energy efficiency and sustainability, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers.
• Grants: Many government and regional programs offer grants,  tax credits or incentives to help reduce the cost of installing a solar heat pump, making it more affordable and accessible for homeowners and businesses. 

The exact savings with a solar heat pump depend on several factors, including your local climate, energy rates, home insulation, and system performance. However, in most cases, homeowners and businesses can see a reduction of up to 50% or more!

If your property gets ample sunlight, has a well-oriented roof (ideally south-facing), and can accommodate solar panels, you’re a great candidate. It can be a great solution for residential homes, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, educational institutions, agricultural and farming properties, remote or off the grid properties, and even government and municipal buildings looking to lower their energy costs.

Installation time depends on the type of system installation (hybrid, solar-only, or using a battery system mode), property specifics, and local permitting requirements. It can take between 1 to 3 days. The solar system and the heat pump must always be installed by qualified and certified professionals.

For a basic hybrid DC-AC system that connects the heat pump to solar panels and the public power grid, the total upfront cost usually falls between $5,000 and $8,000 CAD. This includes the heat pump mini-split, solar equipment (including the panels), electrical protection devices, local permits (if applicable), and installation by HVAC and solar professionals. 

For an off-grid setup, which requires a battery of at least 48V, as well as additional solar equipment and electrical components, the cost will increase significantly, reaching up to $12,500 CAD.

A solar heat pump system typically requires little maintenance and has a longer lifespan compared to traditional heat pumps. However, regular upkeep is essential to maintain peak performance and efficiency. Simple tasks like cleaning the solar panels, cleaning the coils, replacing air filters, and inspecting system connections are key. Scheduling an annual professional maintenance check helps detect any issues early. During these checkups, your local HVAC technician will inspect refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and overall system performance to ensure everything runs smoothly. 

Yes! Many regions offer government incentives, rebates, or tax credits to help offset the cost of installing a solar heat pump and required solar equipment. These programs vary by location and can change over time. For the most accurate information, consult with your local professional HVAC installer who can guide you on available programs in your area.

A well-maintained solar heat pump typically lasts between 15 to 25 years, depending on factors such as maintenance and environmental conditions, while the solar panels themselves can often continue to generate energy for 25 to 30 years. Regular maintenance and professional servicing can help ensure optimal performance and extend the overall lifespan of the system.

A solar heat pump is built for longevity, combining advanced technology and energy-efficient performance. Equipped with a high-efficiency brushless compressor, it has fewer moving parts, reducing mechanical wear and enhancing durability. The system is uniquely engineered to use DC power (generated from solar panels) as its main energy source, and seamlessly draws from the grid (AC power) when solar power is unavailable or insufficient. This hybrid power feature minimizes the stress from frequent cycling, shutdowns, or power fluctuations on the system—common issues that can shorten the lifespan of traditional systems. 

With low maintenance needs and a sturdy design, our solar heat pump provides reliable performance and a longer lifespan than most conventional heat pumps.

A solar heat pump significantly reduces your carbon footprint by harnessing renewable energy to heat and cool your home, cutting reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Its high efficiency means less energy consumption overall, easing demand and pressure on the grid, especially during peak hours, while its integration with solar panels promotes sustainable energy practices for a cleaner environment.

Moreover, our solar heat pump uses R32 refrigerant, which has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than traditional refrigerants (such as R410A refrigerant), reducing the unit's carbon footprint by up to 75%.

You can easily purchase our heat pump on our website or at a local distributor. You can consult the list of distributors here: https://solarcooling.ca/find-a-dealer/

In the provinces of Quebec and Ontario, we offer kits that include the solar panels. For other Canadian regions and outside of Canada, due to high shipping costs, we do not offer kits at this time, and solar panels must be purchased separately. We do not ship solar panels outside of Quebec and Ontario currently. We strongly recommend purchasing solar panels from your local dealer and having them handle the installation to minimize the risk of damage during transport and ensure a safe setup.

Yes! This is what we called the Solar-Only operation mode, where the heat pump is powered solely by DC power from solar panels. During cloudy periods, the heat pump can have a lower output. At night, the heat pump won’t work.

Yes, we do provide a 5-year limited warranty. To activate this warranty, installation must be carried out by a certified HVAC professional, and electrical protections must be installed in the system. Additionally, we require proof of professional installation and confirmation that electrical protections are in place, such as photos and invoices.

The Hybrid operation mode requires both solar panels (DC power) and a connection to the public electrical grid (AC power). The heat pump is uniquely engineered to use DC power as its main energy source, seamlessly drawing from the grid when solar power isn't sufficient or unavailable. As the heat pump can function entirely on DC power, the grid connection serves as a backup, compensating during cloudy days or nighttime to ensure uninterrupted operation. It operates without the need for any additional components such as an inverter, battery, or charge controller, ensuring a cost-effective and streamlined setup.

Yes, the heat pump can operate at night and during cloudy periods using grid power.

The air conditioning heat pump system is designed to prioritize solar energy as its main power source, operating on up to 100% solar power whenever sunlight is sufficient. When solar production is insufficient, the system seamlessly pulls the necessary additional power from the grid, ensuring continuous, energy-efficient performance without interruptions.

First and foremost, investing in high-quality solar panels is essential to ensure the reliable operation of the heat pump. Low-quality panels can result in insufficient power supply or even prevent the heat pump from functioning. The solar panels must be connected in series, and the DC input voltage must not exceed 350V, as this is the maximum supported by the heat pump. In hybrid operation, where the system utilizes both solar energy and grid power, we recommend a minimum of 800 watts of solar panels—regardless of the model—to optimize your investment and maximize efficiency. Ideally, you should use solar panels with a capacity between 350 and 430 watts.

Yes, a DC surge protector is highly recommended to safeguard the heat pump and sensitive components in the DC circuit from potential electrical surges or voltage spikes. While surges are rare, a DC surge protector will absorb excess energy before it reaches the heat pump, preventing possible damage to its electronics. Ecosolaris offers a DC Protection Box, an all-in-one solution that combines a DC surge protector and a DC breaker. Keep in mind that failing to install the required electrical protections could void your warranty, making this an essential precaution.

Yes, a DC breaker is essential for protecting your system. Its primary function is to disconnect or isolate the DC circuit in case of overcurrent or a short circuit, preventing damage to the heat pump and reducing safety risks. Additionally, it serves as a disconnect switch, allowing for safe maintenance and repair operations. Ecosolaris offers a DC Protection Box, an all-in-one solution that combines a DC surge protector and a DC breaker. Keep in mind that failing to install the required electrical protections could void your warranty, making this an essential precaution

Yes, AC breakers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and protection of your electrical system and heat pump. They safeguard components from overcurrent and short circuits while also allowing for manual circuit disconnection during maintenance. In the event of an overload, electrical surge, or fault on the grid side, the AC breaker automatically disconnects the circuit, preventing potential damage to the heat pump. Always follow local electrical codes and regulations to ensure compliance and optimal protection. Keep in mind that failing to install the required electrical protections could void your warranty, making this an essential precaution.

Yes, an AC surge protector is essential for shielding the heat pump from unexpected voltage spikes caused by utility power surges. These surges, which cannot be predicted or prevented, can severely damage the unit’s electronics. Common causes include lightning strikes, power grid fluctuations, and switching events, all of which pose a risk to sensitive components. By diverting or absorbing excess voltage, the surge protector prevents these harmful spikes from reaching the heat pump, ensuring its longevity and reliable operation. Always follow local electrical codes and regulations to ensure compliance and optimal protection. Keep in mind that failing to install the required electrical protections could void your warranty, making this an essential precaution.

In solar-only mode, the unit runs entirely on power generated by the solar panels during daylight hours. Designed to operate on DC power as its primary energy source, the heat pump doesn’t require connection to any backup power, such as the grid. This operating mode relies solely on solar panels to function (DC power), providing a simple way to harness renewable energy. It operates without the need for additional components such as an inverter, battery, or charge controller, ensuring a cost-effective and streamlined setup.

No, in solar-only mode, the heat pump runs exclusively on energy generated by the solar panels, so it won't operate at night or in low-sunlight conditions. However, the heat pump is designed to be effective even in limited sunlight conditions. On cloudy days, the heat pump can continue to generate cooling or heating with reduced capacity, as long as the panels generate enough energy to run it.

If the sunlight isn’t strong enough to fully power the heat pump, the system will automatically adjust its operation. The fan and display screen will remain active, and the system will resume cooling or heating automatically once sufficient sunlight is available. When the power supply drops below approximately 400 watts, the heat pump will stay on but won’t be able to operate at full cooling or heating capacity.

First and foremost, investing in high-quality solar panels is essential to ensure the reliable operation of the heat pump. Low-quality panels can result in insufficient power supply or even prevent the unit from functioning. The solar panels must be connected in series, and the DC input voltage must not exceed 350V, as this is the maximum supported by the heat pump. In solar-only mode, where the system's output depends solely on sunlight, we recommend approximately 1,200 watts of solar panels for the 12,000 BTU model and about 1,500 watts for the 18,000 BTU model. Ideally, use solar panels with a capacity between 350 and 430 watts. For example, the 12,000 BTU model could use three 400-watt panels, while the 18,000 BTU model would require four 400-watt panels.

Yes, a DC surge protector is highly recommended to safeguard the heat pump and sensitive components in the DC circuit from potential electrical surges or voltage spikes. While surges are rare, a DC surge protector will absorb excess energy before it reaches the heat pump, preventing possible damage to its electronics. Ecosolaris offers a DC Protection Box, an all-in-one solution that combines a DC surge protector and a DC breaker. Keep in mind that failing to install the required electrical protections could void your warranty, making this an essential precaution.

Yes, a DC breaker is essential for protecting your system. Its primary function is to disconnect or isolate the DC circuit in case of overcurrent or a short circuit, preventing damage to the heat pump and reducing safety risks. Additionally, it serves as a disconnect switch, allowing for safe maintenance and repair operations. Ecosolaris offers a DC Protection Box, an all-in-one solution that combines a DC surge protector and a DC breaker. Keep in mind that failing to install the required electrical protections could void your warranty, making this an essential precaution.