HVAC cost calculator · Ground-source
Geothermal Cost Calculator
Estimate ground-source geothermal installation cost — loop field, indoor unit, efficiency, and local labor for long-term heating and cooling.
Average cost $18,000–$45,000+
Quick Geothermal Estimate
Get a localized installation range in seconds — no signup required.
Advanced Geothermal Calculator
Adjust home size, system capacity, loop assumptions, and location for a detailed geothermal estimate.
What Is Geothermal?
Ground-source 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
Geothermal Cost by Home Size
Installed averages at 16 SEER with existing ductwork — updates for your selected city.
| Home size | Avg installed cost | Typical tonnage |
|---|
Geothermal Cost by SEER Rating
Higher SEER costs more upfront but lowers monthly cooling bills.
| SEER | Avg cost | Energy savings |
|---|
Geothermal System Types
Loop configuration is the largest cost variable after home size.
Vertical borehole
Pond / lake loop
Geothermal Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Highest efficiency and lowest utility bills long-term
- 25+ year equipment lifespan typical
- Quiet outdoor operation (buried loops)
- Heating and cooling in one system
Disadvantages
- Highest upfront install cost
- Requires yard space or bore drilling
- Longer install timeline (loop field)
- Fewer installers vs conventional HVAC
Geothermal vs Other Systems
Geothermal vs Heat Pump
Cooling-only vs heat + cool in one system — compare installed costs.
Read comparison →Geothermal vs Mini Split
Ducted whole-home vs ductless zoning — which fits your home?
Compare systems →Geothermal 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 Geothermal 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: Soil type and drilling depth drive loop field cost more than equipment
Your city
Geothermal Installation Timeline
System selection
1 day
Choose tonnage, SEER, and brand with your contractor.
Ground loop field
3–5 days
Trenching or vertical bore drilling and loop testing.
Installation
1–2 days
Indoor heat pump, loop ties, flush, and commissioning.
Duct adjustments
1–3 days
If needed — sealing, sizing, or partial replacement.
Inspection
Several hours
City permit inspection after install completes.
Best Geothermal 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 Geothermal Installation Examples
Based on the city selected in the calculator above.
National average
Geothermal · 2,200 sq ft · horizontal loop
- 3-ton · standard replacement
- Final cost: $9,200
Your city
Geothermal · 2,200 sq ft · horizontal loop
- 3-ton · existing ductwork
- Final cost: —
Geothermal Cost FAQ
How much does Geothermal cost?
Geothermal installation typically costs $18,000–$45,000+ 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.