Switching to a New Heating System: Everything You Need to Know for a Successful Conversion

Upgrading your heating system is a big step that can improve your comfort while lowering your energy bills. Across Québec, and especially in Montréal, more and more homeowners are choosing to convert from oil heating to electric systems. This modern, eco-friendly solution makes sense both financially and environmentally.

If you’re considering this change, Plomberie Chauffage Normand, a certified professional in heating system installation and conversion in Lasalle, Westmount, and throughout the island of Montréal, is here to guide you every step of the way. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know for a smooth and successful conversion, from available government grants to the real benefits of switching to electricity.

Why Switch from Oil to Electric Heating?

Oil heating may have been popular in the past, but today it’s neither cost-effective nor environmentally friendly. By moving to an electric system, you can enjoy several major advantages:

• Lower energy bills and improved efficiency: Modern electric systems use less energy to deliver the same amount of heat, meaning you’ll see a noticeable drop in your monthly heating costs.

• Reliability and no maintenance: Electric heating systems are reliable and require no maintenance. This translates into lower maintenance costs.

• Smaller environmental footprint: In Québec, the vast majority of electricity comes from renewable sources like hydro power. That makes electric heating a far cleaner choice than oil, which produces harmful emissions.

Key Steps for a Successful Conversion

1. Evaluation and Planning

Every conversion begins with a detailed inspection of your current heating system. A certified technician from Plomberie Chauffage Normand will examine your oil furnace, tank, ductwork, and overall system condition. From there, we’ll determine your heating needs based on the size and layout of your home, as well as the electrical capacity required to support your new system.

Next comes choosing the right type of electric heating. Whether it’s an electric furnace or a high-efficiency heat pump, the selection depends on your home’s requirements, your energy habits, and your personal comfort preferences. Finally, we’ll check your electrical panel to make sure it can handle the load of your new installation.

2. Conversion Work

Once the plan is finalized, the old oil system, tank, and related components are safely removed. Then comes the installation of your new electric system, complete with all necessary wiring and connections in line with strict industry standards. 

3. Financial Assistance and Incentives

The Canadian and Québec governments actively support the move away from fossil fuels, offering financial incentives to homeowners making the switch. Here are the most relevant programs:

• Chauffez Vert Program: Provides financial assistance to replace an oil heating system with a renewable energy source such as electricity.

• Eligibility Criteria: In most cases, grants are reserved for owners of primary residences and may depend on property type.

• Deadlines: Applications and work must be completed before 31 March 2026 to benefit from the Chauffez vert programme. You have 12 months from the start of the work to submit your application.

These subsidies can significantly reduce your overall conversion costs, making the transition not only practical but also highly affordable.

Tips for a Smooth Conversion

Switching heating systems is a major project, which is why it’s important to rely on a certified professional. At Plomberie Chauffage Normand, we hold all the necessary certifications to carry out conversions in full compliance with current regulations. Our expertise means you’ll be supported from the first evaluation to installation and even long-term maintenance.

It’s also essential to check your eligibility for available subsidies before you begin. Our experts can guide you through the process to help maximize your chances of receiving financial assistance. Finally, don’t hesitate to compare quotes from different providers. Transparency is key, and at Plomberie Chauffage Normand, we provide clear, detailed, and competitive estimates so you can move forward with confidence.

Make the Switch for a Warmer, Greener Winter

Converting from oil to electric heating is a winning decision. It’s cleaner for the environment, easier on your wallet, more reliable, and perfectly suited for long Québec winters. Don’t wait until your old oil system fails at the worst possible moment; be proactive and plan your upgrade.

Plomberie Chauffage Normand is ready to help you every step of the way. With decades of experience serving Montréal, Lasalle, Westmount, and beyond, our team offers certified installation, expert advice, and full support so your transition is seamless. Plus, we’ll make sure you take advantage of every subsidy available.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start planning your conversion. Together, we’ll prepare your home for a warm, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly winter.