How to wire a heat pump electrically?

The electrical connection of a heat pump in Quebec must comply with the rules in sections 28 (motors) and 62 (heating equipment) of the Code:

For a wall heat pump (mini-split):

• Voltage: 208/240 V single-phase
• Breaker: 15 A or 20 A depending on the outdoor unit's FLA
• Conductor: #14 AWG or #12 AWG, AC90 or TECK90 cable
• Disconnect: 30 A visible and accessible next to the outdoor unit
• GFCI is not required for a dedicated heat pump circuit

For a central heat pump (air-to-air or geothermal):

• Breaker: 30 A to 60 A depending on the model
• Conductor: #10 AWG to #6 AWG
• Backup heating (resistance): May require a second 50 A circuit if the heat pump is not designed for extreme cold

Since 2024, the Construction Code requires all new heating/cooling equipment to comply with Quebec's energy efficiency regulations.