Serving the Island Since 1991
Dual Fuel Systems
Heat pump efficiency for most of the year, gas furnace power when you want it. The best of both worlds — and you may still qualify for rebates.
Google Rating
What is a dual fuel system?
The Best of Both Worlds
A dual fuel system pairs a heat pump with a gas furnace on shared ductwork. Most of the time, you run on the efficient electric heat pump for quiet, comfortable heating and full air conditioning. When you want quick, high-output heat — a cold snap, an early morning, or just personal preference — the gas furnace takes over.
For homeowners in Greater Victoria, the West Shore, and Cowichan Valley, that means low-cost electric comfort most of the year, with the security of gas heat when you want it.
How it works
Two Systems, One Smart Setup
A dual fuel system has two main components:
- An outdoor heat pump providing electric heating and cooling
- An indoor gas furnace for supplemental heat
A smart thermostat manages the handoff. In cooler weather and summer, you run the heat pump for efficient heating and air conditioning. When the temperature drops below the heat pump's economical operating range — or you just want fast, powerful heat — the furnace seamlessly takes over.
You don't have to think about it. The thermostat decides which heat source is most efficient at any given moment and switches automatically.
Why Island homeowners choose dual fuel
Three Big Reasons
1. Flexibility and comfort
You run the heat pump primarily, but keep gas on standby for fast, powerful heat whenever you want it. No compromises.
2. Lower energy costs over time
Modern cold-climate heat pumps are dramatically cheaper to run than gas for most of the year. You cut your gas usage significantly while still enjoying the comfort and reliability you're used to.
3. A perfect fit for our coastal climate
The Island's cool, damp winters and increasingly warmer summers make dual fuel an ideal choice. The heat pump handles the mild shoulder seasons and gives you AC when summer hits — the gas furnace is there for the handful of really cold weeks each year.
Yes — rebates apply
Dual Fuel Can Still Qualify for Incentives
Dual fuel systems can still qualify for rebates if they use a high-efficiency, cold-climate heat pump paired with a high-efficiency furnace that meets current rebate program requirements.
As long as the heat pump side of the system is doing the primary heating and the equipment is on the approved list, you can often access many of the same incentives as an all-electric system — while still keeping the comfort and peace of mind of gas backup.
We'll walk you through which rebates apply to your specific setup. See our full rebate guide →
Doing it right
Installation, Maintenance & What Matters
Proper setup of a dual fuel system requires:
- Correct sizing for your home — both the heat pump and the furnace need to be matched to your actual heating and cooling load
- Proper configuration so the two pieces of equipment coordinate cleanly
- Smart thermostat programming with the right balance point for our coastal climate
Routine maintenance is straightforward — regular filter changes, keeping the outdoor unit clear, and an annual professional service check. We handle design, installation, and setup, and we'll help you explore every available rebate and incentive for high-efficiency dual fuel systems in B.C.
See our work
Recent Installations
Available across the Island
Dual Fuel Systems Near You
Victoria · Langford · Colwood · Saanich · Central Saanich · Brentwood Bay · Esquimalt · Sidney · Sooke · Metchosin · View Royal · Oak Bay · North Saanich · Highlands · Duncan / Cowichan · Mill Bay · Shawnigan Lake · Cowichan Bay · Cobble Hill
★★★★★
What Our Customers Say
4.9 stars from 40+ verified Google reviews
"Thank you for such a pleasant experience! Putting in a heat pump is definitely not an easy task, but the Red Fox team made it look easy. Professional, friendly, and clean from start to finish."
"This was the best contractor service, of any trade, that we have received in over 50 years. Honest, prompt, and the workmanship is excellent. Highly recommend."
"I highly recommend Red Fox. They came promptly when my old furnace and heat pump died during the coldest snap of the year. Got me back up and running quickly with no fuss."
"John is professional, a logical problem solver, experienced, and efficient. My heat pump stopped working and he had it diagnosed and fixed faster than I expected. Great communication too."
"Excellent service right from the start. Efficient and clean. Totally satisfied with the product, service, and price. Would absolutely use Red Fox again."
"Thank you Red Fox team. One of the most reliable and experienced companies you can call on. They've taken care of us for years."