How much does a heat pump cost?
How much does a heat pump cost?
A new heat pump costs $3,800 to $8,200 to install on average, depending on the size, efficiency rating, brand, and type. An air-source heat pump costs $4,000 to $8,000, a geothermal heat pump is $15,000 to $35,000, and a ductless mini-split heat pump runs $1,500 to $3,500 per zone.
$3,800 – $8,200 average heat pump cost installed
A new heat pump costs $3,800 to $8,200 to install on average, depending on the size, efficiency rating, brand, and type. An air-source heat pump costs $4,000 to $8,000, a geothermal heat pump is $15,000 to $35,000, and a ductless mini-split heat pump runs $1,500 to $3,500 per zone.
Heat Pump Installation Cost
Heat pump installation costs $3,800 to $8,200 on average, depending on the size, type, efficiency, and brand. Additional costs apply for a hybrid furnace (+ $2,000 – $6,000), installing ducts (+ $2,400 – $6,600), or replacing an air handler (+ $2,000 – $3,500).
Heat pump prices are $800 to $4,500 for the equipment and $1,200 to $3,500 for installation labor.
| Size* | Home Size (SF) | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 ton | 600 – 1,100 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| 2.0 ton | 900 – 1,400 | $3,000 – $5,500 |
| 2.5 ton | 1,200 – 1,650 | $3,200 – $6,000 |
| 3.0 ton | 1,500 – 2,100 | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| 3.5 ton | 1,800 – 2,300 | $3,800 – $7,000 |
| 4.0 ton | 2,100 – 2,700 | $4,000 – $8,500 |
| 5.0 ton | 2,400 – 3,300 | $4,500 – $10,000 |
*An average home uses a 3 to 4 ton unit. The required heat pump size also depends on the climate zone.
Average cost to install a heat pump
| National Average Cost | $5,819 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,200 |
| Maximum Cost | $25,000 |
| Average Range | $3,749 to $8,162 |
Provides both heating and cooling and can replace traditional HVAC systems or be installed as a hybrid with a furnace
Lowers electricity bills by $300 to $1,500 annually, saving 30% to 70% on energy costs
Pay for themselves in energy savings within 5 to 12 years
Are 2 to 3 times more efficient than furnaces
Uses electricity and doesn't produce carbon monoxide. Doesn't require gas lines or ductwork
New Heat Pump Cost by Type
A new heat pump costs $800 to $4,500 for the unit alone or $2,500 to $10,000+ with installation. Heat pump prices depend on the size, system efficiency, brand, and sources (air-to-air, water-to-air, geothermal, dual fuel, mini-split).
| Type | Total Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| Air-Source | $4,000 – $12,000 |
| Geothermal | $15,000 – $35,000 |
| Ductless Mini-Split | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Cold Climate | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Dual Fuel or Hybrid | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| Solar | $15,000 – $30,000 |
*Average price for equipment and installation labor. No add-ons or ductwork.
Air-Source Heat Pump Cost
Air-source heat pumps cost $4,000 to $8,000 installed, depending on the size and brand. High-end brands like Trane or Lennox cost $6,000 to $12,000 installed.
Air-source heat pumps (ASHP) absorb heat from the air and release it inside a home as hot air or water. Two-way systems operate in reverse, cooling during the summer.
| Component | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|
| Standard | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| High-End | $6,000 – $12,000 |
ASHP or aerothermal heating systems are the most common option for homes that currently have vents and ductwork in place. An air-source heat pump:
Can last for over 20 years and have low maintenance requirements
Can be ducted, short-run ducted, or ductless
Reduces energy use by up to 50%
Geothermal Heat Pump Cost
A geothermal heat pump costs $15,000 to $35,000 installed, depending on the size, system type, excavation, drilling, and labor. The ground loop and heat pump cost $4,000 to $8,000 per ton to install. A geothermal heat pump (GHP) or ground source heat pump (GSHP) transfers heat to or from the ground.
| System type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Horizontal | $15,000 – $34,000 |
| Vertical | $20,000 – $38,000 |
| Pond / Lake | $10,000 – $32,000 |
| Open loop | $10,000 – $28,000 |
*Average home uses a 4-ton system. Prices increase for ductwork modifications, electrical upgrades, bedrock removal, zoning, or if multiple heat pumps are required.
Although the upfront cost is high, GSHP systems pay themselves back in energy savings within 5 to 10 years. A geothermal system:
Saves up to 70% on heating and 20% to 50% on cooling costs over conventional HVAC systems
Lasts 15 to 25 years, and the ground loop components last 50+ years
Qualifies for a federal tax credit of 30% for both labor and equipment
Emits 60% less greenhouse gas emission
Requires less maintenance and repair costs
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Cost
A ductless mini-split heat pump costs $3,000 to $10,000 installed, depending on the system size, number of zones, and brand quality. The average single-zone unit costs $1,500 to $3,500 installed, while 5-zone systems cost $10,000 or more.
| Zones | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,200 – $4,000 |
| 2 | $2,200 – $6,000 |
| 3 | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| 4 | $4,500 – $10,000 |
| 5 | $6,000 – $12,000 |
Mini-split systems are similar to a regular air source heat pump with an outside compressor or condenser and one or more indoor air handlers. A mini-split heat pump:
Provides zoned heating and cooling system for up to eight zones without ductwork
Loses 30% less heat than a ducted system
Reduces dust and airborne allergens
Operates in temperatures as low as -22°F (some models)
Cold Climate Heat Pump Cost
Cold climate heat pumps cost $3,000 to $7,000 for a basic unit with installation. Cold climate air source heat pumps (ccASHP) are ductless mini-split systems with high energy-efficiency. To qualify, a ccASHP must have an HSPF rating of 10 and a COP of 1.75 or higher at 5°F.
Cold climate heat pumps are also compatible with dual fuel systems to further reduce heating costs.
ccASHP systems save 30% to 50% annually on utility bills compared to a traditional furnace.
Dual Fuel or Hybrid Heat Pump Cost
A hybrid or dual fuel heat pump costs $2,500 to $6,000 installed in a home with an existing furnace. The average cost of a new heat pump and furnace is $4,500 to $10,000. Hybrid systems use a gas or oil furnace as supplemental heating when the heat pump's balance point reaches 32°F.
| Install Type | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|
| New Heat Pump Connected to Existing Furnace | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| New Heat Pump and Furnace | $4,500 – $10,000 |
Is A Dual Fuel Heat Pump Worth It?
Ideal for homes in cold climates where ductwork is already installed
Saves $200 to $400 per year in operating costs compared to an AC unit and furnace combo
Operates more efficiently in cold climates than a heat pump and air handler with electric resistance heating strips built-in
Less efficient than geothermal heat pumps, but cost half as much
Solar Heat Pumps
Solar heat pumps cost $15,000 to $30,000 installed. Solar-assisted heat pumps (SAHP) use thermal solar panels to cover part of the electricity demand or to capture energy by heating an intermediate fluid to feed the heat pump's evaporator.
A SAHP is typically a single integrated system, but the solar panels can be installed separately. Solar panel installation costs $10,600 to $26,500 for a 6 kW to 12 kW system. A solar water heater costs $3,000 to $9,000 installed and can be configured to work with a heat pump.
Solar heat pumps:
Are compact and easy to install, but are expensive up front
Cost 40% less to run than a heat pump powered by the electrical grid
Cost 70% less to run than natural gas, oil, or propane for heating
A geothermal-solar (geosolar) configuration reduces the upfront investment and reduces the size of the piping field required.
Heat Pump Replacement Costs
Heat pump replacement costs $2,500 to $7,000 if you already have an air handler and ducts and just need the heat pump swapped out. Extra costs apply when converting from an old furnace to a new heat pump or if a new air handler is needed.
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Install Air Handler | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Remove Old AC Unit | $300 – $500 |
| Remove Old Furnace | $150 – $400 |
Cost To Replace Heat Pump And Air Handler
The average cost to replace a heat pump and air handler is $5,000 to $12,000. Installing new ductwork costs $2,400 to $6,600 more.
Installing a new air handler costs $1,500 to $3,400 alone, depending on the capacity and efficiency rating.
Air handlers circulate conditioned air throughout the home using either a single, multi, or variable-speed motor. The air handler houses an inside coil, blower fan, control board, and auxiliary electric strip heater. The coils are sized to match the capacity and efficiency rating of the heat pump.
Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Prices
Replacing a one-way central air conditioner with a two-way heat pump costs $4,000 to $8,000 on average. A heat pump costs more to install than air conditioning. However, the heat pump both heats and cools a home, so a separate AC unit is not required.
Removing the old AC unit costs $300 to $500.
Cost To Replace Oil or Gas Furnace With Heat Pump
The average cost to replace an oil or gas furnace with a heat pump is $4,000 to $12,000. This price includes removing the old oil or gas furnace for $150 to $400 or removing underground oil tanks for $400 to $3,500. A cheaper option is converting the furnace to a backup heating source.
Replacing the oil hot water tank, installing a new air handler, making ductwork modifications, and upgrading the electrical panel to support the heat pump can add $500 to $5,000 to the final cost.
Heat Pump For Mobile Home Pricing
Heat pumps for mobile homes cost $3,000 to $6,000 on average for the equipment and installation. Mobile homes have small ducts and less insulation that interferes with the heat pump’s efficiency, SEER ratio, and the size needed. Look for heat pumps specifically designed and rated for mobile homes.
Heat Pump Installation Cost Factors
Heat pump installation costs depend on the size of your home, local labor costs, if the house has a duct system, existing HVAC type, auxiliary heating, permits, and other materials required.
| Item | Average Cost* |
|---|---|
| Permits | $250 – $400 |
| Thermostat prices | $140 – $350 |
| HVAC Zoning System Cost | $1,700 – $4,500 |
| Electric Heat Strips | $150 – $600 |
| New Ductwork | $2,400 – $6,600 |
| Labor | $1,200 – $3,500 |
| Remove Old Unit | $500 – $1,000 |
*Installation costs increase 20% to 30% in locations with a higher cost of living or demand.
Labor Cost To Install Heat Pump
The average labor cost to install a heat pump is $1,200 to $3,500, depending on the size and type. HVAC labor rates are $75 to $150 per hour, with the average heat pump installation taking 15 to 25 hours.
Labor costs increase for replacing ductwork or vents, installing a concrete base to support the system, adding heating strips, cutting holes in exterior walls, running new electrical lines, or removing an old heat pump or furnace.
Cost To Install Heat Pump And Ducts
The average cost to install a heat pump and ducts is $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the home's size, number of stories, and ducting quality. Replacing or installing new ductwork costs $1,400 to $6,600 alone on average.
Installing a ducted central air system costs less during new construction or additions. Short-run ducted systems are cheaper but only run through one part of the house.
Backup Electric Heat Pump Cost
Electric heat strips cost $150 to $600 each installed and provide backup and emergency heating when temperatures drop below freezing. Many heat pumps have built-in heat strips, providing 10,000 to 70,000 watts of supplemental heat.
Electric resistance heaters should provide at least 70% of the heat that the heat pump delivers.
High-Efficiency Heat Pump Costs
High-efficiency heat pumps cost $6,000 to $12,000 installed for units with ratings above 18 SEER and 10 HSPF. ENERGY STAR recommends a minimum efficiency of 15 SEER and 8.5 HSPF for heat pumps.
| Efficiency Rating | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|
| 13 – 14 SEER / 7 – 8 HSPF | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| 15 – 16 SEER / 8 – 9 HSPF | $4,500 – $7,500 |
| 17 – 18 SEER / 9 – 10 HSPF | $6,000 – $9,000 |
| 19+ SEER / 10+ HSPF | $8,000 – $12,000 |
Heat Pump Efficiency Rating
SEER, HSPF, and COP ratings describe a heat pumps efficiency. The higher the number, the higher the efficiency and cost.
| Efficiency | Ratings | Climate Zones |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | 13 – 15 SEER / 8.5 HSPF | Central / Midwest. Dry, temperate climates without extremes. |
| Moderate | 15 – 17 SEER / 8.5 – 9.5 HSPF | Central / Midwest. Some temperature fluctuations. |
| High | 18 – 25+ SEER / 10+ HSPF | South / North. Temperatures extremes, freezing, or high humidity. |
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) – measures the cooling output divided by the electric energy input.
HSPF (Heating Season Performance Factor) – measures the heat output to electricity use over an average heating season.
COP (Coefficient of Performance) – measures how many times more efficient a heat pump is than electric resistance heat. Most air-source heat pumps have a COP of 2.4 to 4.0, and geothermal pumps average 3.1 to 4.1 COP, depending on outdoor temperatures.
Sound Rating – measures how loud a heat pump sounds in decibels. A lower rating is quieter.
Heat Pump Type & Performance
Heat pumps are available in split, packaged or mini-split systems with various performance levels. The most efficient heat pumps use variable-speed blowers and two-stage compressors.
Split – The most common type found in residential homes, a split heat pump system features an outdoor condenser unit connected to an indoor air handler.
Packaged – More common for large commercial buildings, packaged systems feature one cabinet installed outdoors that contains both the condenser and air handler. Requires less space. Easier to install.
Mini-split – Ideal for small homes without ductwork or older homes that are difficult to retrofit. Requires an indoor air handler for every zone.
| Type | Performance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Single Stage | Basic | Either operating at 100% capacity or off |
| Two-Stage | Standard | Runs either at 65% capacity to boost efficiency or 100% capacity |
| Variable / Modulating | High-end | Adjusts output from 40% to 100% capacity to maintain the desired temperature |
Heat Pump Costs By Location
Average installation costs vary slightly by location:
| City, State | Average Cost Installed* |
|---|---|
| Atlanta, GA | $4,000 – $6,900 |
| Chicago, IL | $4,600 – $7,500 |
| Denver, CO | $4,000 – $7,000 |
| Houston, TX | $3,800 – $6,900 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $4,400 – $7,500 |
| Miami, Florida | $3,500 – $6,800 |
| Minneapolis, MN | $4,500 – $7,400 |
| New York, NY | $5,000 – $8,500 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $4,000 – $7,000 |
| Portland, ME | $3,500 – $7,200 |
| St. Louis, MI | $4,500 – $7,500 |
| Seattle, WA | $4,500 – $8,000 |
*Average cost for 2.5 Ton 14 SEER heat pump system with installation.
Additional Installation Costs
The installation may require additional items:
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Condensing Unit Pad | $30 – $200 |
| Refrigerant Line Set | $125 – $400 |
| Refrigerant Line Set Covers | $50 – $150 |
| Outdoor Mounting Wall Bracket | $60 – $225 |
| Coil UV Lights | $85 – $500 |
Heat Pump Prices By Brand
The brand determines the quality and unit price but doesn't affect labor costs. Brands range in price from budget to premium, depending on their reliability, features, efficiency, performance, and longevity.
| Brand | SEER Rating | Unit Price* |
|---|---|---|
| Aire-Flo | 13 – 14 | $950 – $2,200 |
| Airtemp | 14 – 16 | $1,100 – $2,600 |
| Amana | 15 – 18 | $1,000 – $4,800 |
| American Standard | 14 – 21 | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Ameristar | 13 – 16 | $950 – $3,500 |
| Armstrong and Ducane | 14 – 24 | $1,100 – $3,700 |
| Bryant | 14 – 20 | $1,600 – $4,500 |
| Carrier | 14 – 20 | $2,100 – $4,900 |
| Coleman | 14 – 20 | $1,300 – $4,700 |
| Daikin | 15 – 21 | $1,200 – $4,800 |
| Day & Night | 13 – 19 | $1,200 – $3,900 |
| DiamondAir | 14 – 16 | $900 – $2,000 |
| Ducane | 14 – 20 | $1,200 – $4,700 |
| Goodman | 14 – 18 | $1,100 – $3,900 |
| Heil | 14 – 19 | $1,200 – $4,700 |
| Lennox | 16 – 23 | $2,200 – $5,500 |
| Luxaire | 13 – 20 | $1,300 – $3,600 |
| Maytag | 14 – 19 | $1,300 – $4,200 |
| Payne | 14 – 17 | $1,400 – $3,100 |
| Rheem & Ruud | 14 – 20 | $1,400 – $3,800 |
| Tempstar | 14 – 19 | $1,200 – $4,700 |
| Trane | 16 – 22 | $1,800 – $4,200 |
| York | 13 – 20 | $1,400 – $3,600 |
*Not including installation.
Best Heat Pump Brands
The best heat pump brands are Lennox, American Standard, Trane, Carrier, and Bryant, according to reviews and third-party tests. These companies make the highest-rated heat pump systems that last up to 50% longer than low-end brands.
| Quality | Lasts (Years) | Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Low-end | 12 – 16 | Payne, Aire-Flo, Airtemp, Ameristar, York, Coleman, and DiamondAir |
| Standard | 15 – 18 | Daikin, Goodman, Amana, Heil, Arcoaire, Day & Night, Tempstar, Armstrong Air and Ducane, Rheem and Ruud, Luxaire, Maytag, Broan, Westinghouse, Frigidaire, and NuTone |
| High-end | 17 – 22 | Lennox, American Standard, Trane, Carrier, and Bryant |
What Size Heat Pump Do I Need?
Heat pumps range from 1.5 tons (18,000 BTU) to 5.0 tons (60,000 BTU). The size required depends on the home's square footage, age, insulation, and climate zone. The following table is a general guideline for the heat pump size needed.
| Square Footage | Tonnage Needed | BTUs Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 600 – 1,100 | 1.5 | 18,000 |
| 900 – 1,400 | 2.0 | 24,000 |
| 1,200 – 1,600 | 2.5 | 30,000 |
| 1,500 – 2,100 | 3.0 | 36,000 |
| 1,800 – 2,300 | 3.5 | 42,000 |
| 2,100 – 2,700 | 4.0 | 48,000 |
| 2,400 – 3,300 | 5.0 | 60,000 |
| Room Square Footage | BTUs Needed |
|---|---|
| 100 – 250 | 5,000 – 6,000 |
| 250 – 350 | 7,000 – 8,000 |
| 350 – 450 | 8,000 – 10,000 |
| 450 – 700 | 12,000 – 14,000 |
| 700 – 1,000 | 15,000 – 18,000 |
| 1,000 – 1,400 | 20,000 – 23,000 |
Cooling is sized in tonnage, covering approximately 400 to 700 square feet per ton. Systems in newer, well-insulated homes or homes in cold climates cover more square feet per ton and require less BTUs.
Heating is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), requiring 30 to 60 BTUs per square foot, depending on the climate zone. BTU requirements increase by 10% to 30% for homes in hotter climates (90°F+) or with high ceilings, more occupants, or inadequate insulation.
Supplemental heating is typically required when the balance point is below 32°F. The maximum size heat pump should be 25% over the BTUs required. Otherwise, an oversized heat pump can frequently short cycle, reducing the unit's efficiency and lifespan.
Manual J and Manual S Calculation
Manual J and Manual S calculations are the professional method to size a heat pump.
Manual J determines the heating and cooling loads based on the home's size, age, insulation, number of doors and windows, climate zone, number of people using the space, and more.
Manual S helps select the right equipment, such as ducts and air handlers.
Otherwise, the easiest way to size a heat pump is by using the existing system's capacity for the replacement unit.
Heat Pump Cost To Run
A heat pump costs $0.20 to $0.50 per hour to run, depending on the type and local electricity costs. Running a heat pump costs $40 to $160 per month or about $500 to $2,000 per year, depending on the climate zone, home's insulation, and if the system has a backup heat source.
| Period | Cost To Run* |
|---|---|
| Daily | $1.20 – $5.40 |
| Monthly | $40 – $160 |
| Yearly | $500 – $2,000 |
*Average costs for a 3 Ton system.
A heat pump uses 2 to 3kW and typically runs for 60% to 70% of a 24-hour day when outdoor temperatures are at 20°F. In southern states with moderate climates, these systems run less.
A supplemental heat strip adds 3kW to 25kW, dramatically increasing the cost to run. A cheaper auxiliary heating option is using a hydronic coil with heat from a water heater.
Do Heat Pumps Save Money?
Heat pumps save $300 to $1,500 on annual energy costs. Heat pumps cost $40 to $160 to run monthly, effectively lowering electric bills by 30% to 70% on heating and 20% to 50% on cooling costs. Heat pump energy savings are between 3,000 and 10,000 kWh per year.
| Type | Energy Savings |
|---|---|
| Air Source | up to 50% |
| Mini Split Ductless | 25% – 40% |
| Geothermal Ground Source | up to 70% |
For further savings:
Install a heat pump with a demand-defrost control to minimize defrost cycles and reduce supplementary heat pump energy use.
Strategically place a bush or fence upwind of the coils to block the unit from high winds, which protects the unit’s defrosting abilities.
Are Heat Pumps Worth The Cost?
Heat pumps lower electricity bills by $300 to $1,500 annually, saving 30% to 70% on energy costs. Heat pumps are 2 to 3 times more efficient than furnaces, and pay themselves back in energy savings within 5 to 12 years. Plus, heat pumps are inexpensive to run, making them worth the cost.
Heat Pumps For Appliances
Heat pumps are energy-efficient in powering appliances such as water heaters and clothes dryers. Adding a desuperheater to a geothermal heat pump costs $250 to $800 and can provide hot water for a swimming pool, shower, or other home appliances.
| Appliance | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Heat Pump Water Heater | $1,800 – $5,000 |
| Swimming Pool Heat Pump | $1,800 – $5,400 |
| Heat Pump Clothes Dryer | $700 – $1,700 |
Heat Pump Water Heater
A hybrid heat pump water heater costs $2,000 to $4,600 installed. These systems operate three times more efficiently than electric water heaters, saving $250 to $500 annually.
Swimming Pool Heat Pump
A swimming pool heat pump costs $2,000 to $6,000 installed. A pool heat pump absorbs the heat from the outside air and transfers the heat to the cooler pool water circulating through the heater. Heat pump pool heaters work efficiently when outdoor temperatures remain above 45°F.
Heat Pump Clothes Dryer Cost
A heat pump clothes dryer costs $700 to $1,700 installed and uses 30% to 40% less energy than a traditional electric dryer. Although the upfront cost is higher than standard dryers, heat pump units save $0.20 to $0.40 per load or $75 per year for a family of four.
A heat pump dryer can be installed anywhere because it doesn’t have to be vented, and the water drainage outlet can connect to the clothes washer drain.
Heat Pump Pros and Cons
Benefits of a Heat Pump
Single unit – One piece of equipment heats and cools. Takes up less space than furnaces and boilers.
Energy-efficient – Uses 30% to 70% less energy on heating and 20% to 50% less energy on cooling, lowering utility bills.
Environmentally friendly – Uses less electricity and doesn't produce carbon monoxide.
Versatile – Installs easily, repair costs are reasonable, and it's available for homes without gas or propane.
Value – Quick return on investment, paying for themselves in energy savings within 5 to 12 years.
Clean – Doesn’t dry out the air it circulates. Ducts won’t freeze. Ductless models reduce airborne allergens.
Safe – Safer than using gas. No risk of gas or carbon monoxide leaks.
Disadvantages of a Heat Pump
Half the lifespan of a furnace. Heat pumps last 10 to 15 years, while a furnace lasts 20 to 30 years.
Typically more expensive to operate than gas furnaces, especially in cold climates.
Higher upfront cost and needs more maintenance than gas furnaces and boilers.
Supplemental electric heating is typically required when the balance point is below 32°F.
Extra-large homes may require more than one pump.
Heat Pump Tax Credits & Rebates
Federal tax credits and rebates are available to save up to $2,000 off a heat pump installation:
Federal Renewable Energy Tax Credits
For solar and geothermal heat pumps
30% for systems installed before 01/01/2033
26% for systems installed after 12/31/2032 and before 01/01/2034
22% for systems installed after 12/31/2023 and before 01/01/2035
Expires: December 31, 2034
Federal Equipment Tax Credits for Primary Residences
$300 tax credit on ENERGY STAR certified air-source heat pumps.
Utility Company Rebates
Some electricity providers offer rebates from $400 to $1,000 to install a heat pump.
Manufacturer Rebates
Various manufacturers offer rebates from $300 to $800 to install a heat pump.
Heat pump FAQs
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump uses electricity to transfer heat from a cool area to a warm area. Heat pumps warm homes during the winter and cool homes in the summer. The three types of heat pumps are air-to-air, water source, and geothermal, which collect heat from the air, water, or ground outside the home.
How Does a Heat Pump Work?
Heat pumps work by absorbing heat from a cool area and moving it to a warm area. A compressor pumps refrigerant between two heat exchanger coils, one indoors and the other outdoors. One coil evaporates the refrigerant and absorbs heat from the air. The refrigerant is then transferred to the second coil, where it condenses and releases the absorbed heat.
How Long Do Heat Pumps Last?
Heat pumps last 15 to 20 years on average. The life expectancy of a heat pump depends on the type, brand, maintenance history, and the local climate. Heat pumps have a similar lifespan to an AC unit but last about 10 years less than a furnace.
How Efficient Are Heat Pumps?
Heat pumps have an efficiency of 200% to 300% on avdrage, producing 3kW thermal energy for every 1kW of electrical energy consumed. In comparison, a furnace or boiler has an efficiency of 70% to 95%. The most efficient heat pumps exceed 20 SEER cooling and 10 HSPF heating.
| Heat Type | Efficiency |
|---|---|
| Air-Source Heat Pump | 150% – 250% |
| Geothermal Heat Pump | 200% – 400% |
| Condensing Furnace or Boiler (Oil/Gas) | 90% – 96% |
| Conventional Furnace or Boiler (Oil/Gas) | 70% – 80% |
| Direct Electric Heating | 30% – 45% |
How Much Do Heat Pump Repairs or Maintenance Cost?
Minor heat pump repairs cost $150 to $1,000, while replacing a coil, compressor, or condenser ranges from $500 to $2,000 or more.
Do Geothermal Heat Pumps Work In Cold Climates?
Geothermal heat pumps work in hot or cold climates because the earth’s underground temperature stays at 45°F to 75°F. Geothermal or ground-source heat pumps supply heat, cooling, and hot water by transferring heat to or from the ground. This process cuts energy bills up to 65% compared to HVAC units.
What Is An Absorption Heat Pump?
An absorption heat pump is an air-source heat pump powered by geothermal or solar-heated water rather than electricity. It doesn’t have a compressor.
How Much Does A Heat Pump vs. Furnace Cost?
A new furnace costs $2,000 to $5,400 installed, compared to a heat pump at $4,000 to $8,000. A new furnace may require installing expensive gas lines, which makes a heat pump the cheaper option. In northern climates, heat pumps may require a furnace for backup heating.
How Much Does A Heat Pump vs. Air Conditioner Cost?
A new AC unit costs $2,500 to $7,500 to install but only cools. A two-way heat pump costs $4,000 to $8,000 but both heats and cools, making it a viable option depending on the climate.
Getting Heat Pump Installation Quotes
Before hiring a heat pump installer and signing a contract, be sure to:
Get at least three in-person estimates to compare.
Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.
Read reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Confirm the installers are licensed, insured, and bonded.
Choose a company that's been in business for 5+ years.
Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Ask for a full itemized contract in writing in case of a dispute.
Compare warranties on labor and equipment.
Ask for an estimate of annual operating costs.
Confirm the tech is certified to determine the best system size for your home.
Avoid making large payments up front. Come up with a payment schedule for work completed.