If you’re thinking about replacing your heat pump or installing one for the first time, you’re probably wondering how much it will cost. On average, installing a heat pump in California ranges from $5,000 to $20,000. However, the only way to get an exact estimate is to have a professional assess your needs and current system and provide an accurate installation cost.
What we can tell you is that the cost to install a heat pump usually depends on the following factors:
In the blog below, we’ll look at these factors in more detail, so you can get a better idea of how much a new heat pump will cost.
If you’d prefer to have a professional provide you with an exact cost to install your heat pump, schedule a free estimate! If you aren’t quite ready for an estimate, you can learn more about the heat pump installation services we offer in the meantime.
Cost Factor #1: Size of the system
The larger your heat pump is, the more expensive it will be.
However, installing the right-size system for your home is extremely important, and it could cost you more in the long run if you install a too small or too large system for your home.
The system size you need is determined by various factors related to your home, such as your location, number of windows and doors, type of insulation, size of your home, number of people who live in your home, the kind of flooring you have, etc.
Before installing a heat pump, a professional should conduct a load calculation, which takes all of these factors (and more) into account.
If you install a system that is too small, your heat pump will not be able to meet demand. This not only means that your heat pump won’t be able to cool or heat your home properly, but also means that your system will frequently run, increasing your energy bills and breaking down sooner than it should.
If you install a system that is too large for your home, your system will cycle on and then off quickly, which can result in hot and cold spots throughout your home, increase your energy bills and cause your system to break down sooner than it should.
Even if you don’t want to pay more upfront for a larger heat pump, you must install the right-size heat pump now. If you don’t, you’ll most likely pay for it later.
Note: To determine the right-size heat pump, it's imperative that a licensed professional conduct a load calculation. If you are interested in a company or contractor that does not do this before installing your system, you should find another company.
Cost Factor #2: Efficiency of the system
The more efficient a heat pump is, the more it will cost. BUT, the more it could save you in the long run on monthly energy bills.
Because heat pumps both heat and cool your home, the efficiency is noted by two ratings:
- SEER— SEER represents cooling efficiency and ranges from 13 to 20+
- HSPF—HSPF represents heating efficiency and ranges from 7.7 to 10+
The higher the SEER or HSPF rating is, the more efficient your heat pump will be and, therefore, the more expensive it will be. However, the more efficiently your heat pump runs, the less money you’ll spend on monthly energy bills.
Cost Factor #3: Warranty you choose
The more extensive your warranty is, the more your heat pump installation will be. However, investing in extended parts or labor warranties could save you quite a bit of money in the long run if something happens to your heat pump.
When you install a new heat pump, it will come with two warranties:
- Parts or manufacturer's warranty
- Labor warranty
A parts or manufacturer’s warranty comes from the manufacturer of your heat pump. It covers the cost of any faulty components for a certain number of years (the length and extent of coverage depends on the specific heat pump and brand). However, you can purchase an extended warranty that will cover your heat pump for a more extended period. While this is more expensive upfront, it can save you money in the long run if a part needs to be replaced further down the line.
A labor warranty comes from the contractor or company that installs your heat pump. This warranty covers labor costs if something goes wrong with your heat pump due to the installation. If you purchase an extended labor warranty, it will be more expensive upfront, but could save you money later if there is an issue due to a faulty installation.
Cost Factor #4: Any modifications or comfort features
The more comfort features you choose or modifications that need to be made to your current system, the more your heat pump installation will cost overall.
For example, if you want to install special features like a dual-fuel-enabled heat pump or a smart thermostat, your heat pump installation cost will be more expensive.
The cost of your installation can also increase if there are any modifications that need to be made to your home to install and run your heat pump properly. For example, if your ductwork needs to be modified or repaired to accommodate your new heat pump, the overall cost of your installation will increase.
Cost Factor #5: Company or contractor you choose
Typically, the more experienced a company or contractor is, the more they will charge for a heat pump installation.
Although it can be tempting to hire a cheaper contractor to save money, it can cost you a significant amount of money and time in the long run.
For example, a less experienced contractor may not install your heat pump properly or be aware of appropriate modifications that need to be made to your current duct system or home to accommodate your new system.
To find a qualified and experienced contractor, you should look for someone who:
Ready to install a new heat pump? Contact True Home Heating and Air Conditioning!
Whether you’re ready to install a heat pump today or you have some questions that you need answered, we’re here to help. At True Home, we care deeply about our customers’ experience and do everything we can to ask relevant questions to ensure you get the solution you want and need. You can learn more about the heat pump installation services we offer or…