How Whitehorse is built
- Before 1961 8%
- 1961–1990 41%
- 1991–2000 16%
- 2001 or later 35%
Why the design temperature matters in Whitehorse
−36.4°C is the 2nd-coldest design temperature of the 70 cities we cover. The F280 calculation works out how much heat each room loses on that design day, from the house's actual walls, windows, air leakage and ceiling insulation.
At −36.4°C, even cold-climate heat pumps lose capacity just when you need heat most. The room-by-room number tells you how much the heat pump can cover and how much backup heat to plan for, rather than guessing from square footage.
Why skipping it costs money
Contractors who size by square footage routinely oversize. An oversized heat pump costs more to buy, cycles on and off, dehumidifies poorly in summer and wears faster. An undersized one leans on backup heat. The F280 report is the evidence either way, and it's worth having before you compare quotes.
What it costs
About $150–$400 as a standalone calculation (a September 2026 planning range; quotes vary). Many energy advisors bundle it with an EnerGuide evaluation, which also gives the calculation measured air-leakage data instead of an assumption.
NRCan-licensed service organizations serving Whitehorse
In Yukon, the territorial government's Energy Branch is the licensed service organization and arranges assessments with local energy advisors.
Many energy advisors also do room-by-room CSA F280 calculations for an extra fee; HVAC designers do them too. Ask for the F280 report itself, not just an equipment recommendation.
- Government of Yukon Energy Mines and Resources
Heat pump programs in Whitehorse
Heat loss calculation in Whitehorse: common questions
What design temperature is used for heat pump sizing in Whitehorse?
NRCan's HOT2000 climate data gives −36.4°C for Whitehorse. Your designer may use the building code's design value for Whitehorse, which can differ slightly; ask which one the calculation uses.
How much does a heat loss calculation cost?
About $150–$400 standalone as a planning range; often less when bundled with an EnerGuide evaluation.
Who does F280 calculations in Whitehorse?
Many of the 1 NRCan-licensed organizations serving Whitehorse offer them, as do HVAC designers. Ask for the F280 report itself.
Do rebate programs require a heat loss calculation?
Requirements vary by program and change often. Even where it isn't required, it is the best protection against an oversized or undersized system.