Heat Pump Cost Calculator
Estimate the installed cost of a new heat pump, minus any state or utility rebates.
How much does a heat pump cost in 2026?
Installed price depends mostly on the system type and your home, not just the equipment. Typical 2026 ranges before incentives:
| Type | Typical installed | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ducted air-source | $5,000–$15,000 | Homes with existing ductwork |
| Ductless mini-split | $3,500–$5,000 / zone | No ducts, additions, room-by-room |
| Geothermal | $18,000–$45,000 | Long-term lowest running cost |
Cost by system size (ducted air-source)
| Size | Home size | Typical installed |
|---|---|---|
| 2 tons | ~1,000–1,400 sq ft | $5,500–$9,000 |
| 3 tons | ~1,500–2,000 sq ft | $8,500–$11,500 |
| 4 tons | ~2,000–2,600 sq ft | $10,500–$14,500 |
| 5 tons | ~2,600–3,200 sq ft | $12,500–$17,000 |
What's included in the installed price
- The heat pump equipment (outdoor + indoor units)
- Labor, refrigerant lines, electrical and a new pad or mounts
- Permits and start-up commissioning
- Sometimes: electrical panel upgrade, ductwork changes, or removal of the old system
Why the types cost so differently
Ductless mini-splits are priced per zone (indoor head) — a single room is cheap, a whole house with 5 heads adds up. Geothermal is expensive upfront because of the ground loop (drilling or trenching), but it has the lowest operating cost and longest lifespan. Ducted air-source is the middle ground if you already have ducts.
How to pay less
- Stack state and utility rebates (often $500–$10,000) — the main incentives now that the federal 25C/25D credit has expired.
- Get 3+ quotes — installed prices vary widely by contractor.
- Right-size: an oversized unit costs more to buy and run.
- Replace in the off-season (spring/fall) when installers are less busy.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to install a heat pump?
Most ducted air-source systems run $5,000–$15,000 installed; ductless mini-splits $3,500–$5,000 per zone; geothermal $18,000–$45,000 — before any state or utility rebates.
Is there a federal tax credit for heat pumps in 2026?
No — the federal 25C and 25D tax credits expired December 31, 2025. State and utility rebates are now the main way to lower the price.
Why is geothermal so expensive?
The ground loop requires drilling or trenching, which is labor- and equipment-intensive. It pays back through very low running costs and a 20–25 year lifespan.
Is a heat pump cheaper than a furnace and AC together?
Often yes overall, because one heat pump replaces both. Upfront it can be similar or a bit more, but incentives and combined heating+cooling usually make it competitive.
How long do heat pumps last?
Air-source heat pumps typically last 12–15 years; geothermal ground loops 25–50 years with the indoor unit replaced once. Regular maintenance extends life.
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⚠️ Rule-of-thumb estimate, not a substitute for a professional Manual J load calculation. Based on US DOE / ENERGY STAR guidance.