HVAC cost calculator · Heat pump
Heat Pump Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of installing a ducted heat pump system that heats and cools your home from one outdoor unit — based on size, efficiency, ductwork, and local rates.
Average cost $6,500–$15,000
Quick Heat Pump Estimate
Get a localized installation range in seconds — no signup required.
Advanced Heat Pump Calculator
Personalize tonnage, efficiency, ductwork, climate, and upgrades for a detailed breakdown with financing.
What Is Heat Pump?
Heat pump conditioning cools your entire home through a single outdoor condenser and indoor air handler connected to ductwork. A thermostat controls temperature room-by-room via supply vents.
- Whole-home cooling — one system, even temperatures
- Duct-driven airflow — works with existing furnace ducts in most homes
- Thermostat controlled — programmable and smart thermostat compatible
Heat Pump Cost by Home Size
Installed averages at 16 SEER with existing ductwork — updates for your selected city.
| Home size | Avg installed cost | Typical tonnage |
|---|
Heat Pump Cost by SEER Rating
Higher SEER costs more upfront but lowers monthly cooling bills.
| SEER | Avg cost | Energy savings |
|---|
Heat Pump System Types
Compressor stage affects heating performance, comfort, and price.
Two-stage
Variable-speed
Heat Pump Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Heating and cooling in one system
- Lower operating cost vs resistance heat in many regions
- Eligible for federal tax credits and rebates (check current programs)
- Works with existing ducts in most homes
Disadvantages
- Higher upfront cost than AC-only replacement
- May need auxiliary heat in very cold climates
- Sizing and refrigerant type matter for cold-weather performance
Heat Pump vs Other Systems
Heat Pump vs Heat Pump
Cooling-only vs heat + cool in one system — compare installed costs.
Read comparison →Heat Pump vs Mini Split
Ducted whole-home vs ductless zoning — which fits your home?
Compare systems →Heat Pump vs Window AC
Whole-home comfort vs room-by-room budget cooling.
Full HVAC calculator →HVAC Systems by Type
Compare installed cost ranges for every major system.
Local Heat Pump Cost Factors
Based on the city selected in the calculator above.
National average
- Typical install: 3-ton · 16 SEER · existing ducts
- Peak season: Summer demand for AC replacements
- Sizing: ~1 ton per 500–600 sq ft (moderate climate)
- Note: Heat pumps growing fast; verify cold-climate ratings below 20°F if applicable
Your city
Heat Pump Installation Timeline
System selection
1 day
Choose tonnage, SEER, and brand with your contractor.
Installation
1–2 days
Outdoor unit, indoor air handler, refrigerant lines, and commissioning.
Duct adjustments
1–3 days
If needed — sealing, sizing, or partial replacement.
Inspection
Several hours
City permit inspection after install completes.
Best Heat Pump Brands
Price tiers and typical warranty coverage (2026).
| Brand | Price tier | Typical warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Carrier | $$$ | 10 yr parts · 1–5 yr labor |
| Trane | $$$ | 10 yr parts · registered labor |
| Lennox | $$$ | 10 yr parts · variable by series |
| Goodman | $ | 10 yr parts · budget-friendly |
| Rheem | $$ | 10 yr parts · solid mid-range |
Real Heat Pump Installation Examples
Based on the city selected in the calculator above.
National average
16 SEER heat pump · 2,000 sq ft
- 3-ton · standard replacement
- Final cost: $9,200
Your city
16 SEER heat pump · 2,000 sq ft
- 3-ton · existing ductwork
- Final cost: —
San Diego, CA — Local Cost Context
Prices on this page adjust for San Diego-area labor, permits, and climate — not a generic national template.
Labor
San Diego carries California coastal labor premiums. Title 24 energy code compliance adds scope to HVAC and window projects, and coastal corrosion requires specialized materials for roofing and exterior work.
Contractor labor runs about 28% above the U.S. average; typical permit fees in our model start around $395 for standard residential work.
Permits
City of San Diego Development Services and county jurisdictions require permits for virtually all structural, mechanical, and electrical work. Title 24 energy calculations are mandatory for HVAC replacements.
Climate
Mediterranean coastal climate with wildfire and salt-air factors:
- Mild year-round climate — moderate heating, significant cooling near inland valleys
- Salt air in coastal communities accelerates metal and fastener corrosion
- Wildfire ember zones inland require fire-rated roofing and vents
Top local projects
- Title 24–compliant HVAC upgrade — Required for permit — plan for higher equipment tier
- Tile or composition re-roof — Coastal and inland fire-zone material requirements
- Solar + battery — High electric rates and strong sun improve payback
Heat Pump Cost FAQ
How much does Heat Pump cost?
Heat Pump installation typically costs $6,500–$15,000 nationally in 2026, depending on home size, tonnage, SEER, ductwork, and location. Use the calculator above for a localized range.
What size AC do I need?
Plan on about 1 ton per 500–600 sq ft in moderate climates — a 2,200 sq ft home often needs a 3–4 ton unit. Hot climates may need slightly more capacity. Always confirm with a Manual J load calculation.
Is 16 SEER worth it?
For most homes, 16 SEER is the sweet spot: modest upfront premium over 14 SEER with meaningful energy savings. In hot states like Texas or Arizona, payback is often under 7 years.
Does installation include ductwork?
Standard replacement usually reuses existing ducts. New ductwork adds roughly $2,800–$6,500+ depending on home size — toggle it in the advanced calculator.
How long does installation take?
Most central AC replacements take 1–2 days for installation, plus permit lead time. Duct work or electrical upgrades can extend the schedule to 3–5 days.