A heat pump heats and cools a home with electricity by moving heat rather than making it. Heat pump installation replaces an old air conditioner, and often the furnace too, with one efficient system. Modern cold climate models work well even in freezing weather.
A good installer starts with a load calculation to size the system, checks the ductwork and makes sure the electrical panel can support it.
When you need heat pump installation
- Replacing an old air conditioner and furnace together
- Living where gas is not available or is costly
- Wanting efficient heating and cooling in one system
- Adding a backup furnace for very cold days, called dual fuel
What the job involves
- Do a load calculation, such as Manual J, to size the system.
- Check ducts for leaks and size.
- Check electrical panel capacity.
- Install the outdoor unit, indoor air handler or coil, and thermostat.
- Test, commission and register the warranty.
What affects the cost
Sifixit does not quote prices, because every job is different. These are the things that move the price up or down, so you can compare quotes fairly:
- System size and efficiency rating
- Cold climate or standard model
- Duct repairs or changes
- Electrical panel upgrades
- Removing old equipment
- Permits
Insurance
Insurance does not pay for an upgrade to a heat pump, though it may cover equipment destroyed in a covered event such as a fire. Manufacturer warranties often require registration and professional installation.
Licensing by state
Rules differ a lot between states. Here is who licenses this work in the states Sifixit covers most. Always ask for the license number and check it with the state.
- Texas: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation licenses air conditioning and refrigeration contractors.
- California: Contractors State License Board, C 20 license.
- Florida: Construction Industry Licensing Board, Class A or B air conditioning contractor.
- Arizona: Registrar of Contractors.
- Nevada: Nevada State Contractors Board.
- Georgia: Division of Conditioned Air Contractors.
- Everywhere: technicians who handle refrigerant need EPA Section 608 certification.
Read our guide: heat pump vs furnace.
Local help for heat pump installation
- Heating and cooling in Denver, CO
- Heating and cooling in Las Vegas, NV
- Heating and cooling in North Las Vegas, NV
- Heating and cooling in Phoenix, AZ
- Heating and cooling in Anaheim, CA
- Heating and cooling in Aurora, CO
Quick answers: heat pump installation
Do heat pumps work in cold weather?
Modern cold climate heat pumps work in freezing weather, though efficiency drops as it gets colder.
Do I need new ducts for a heat pump?
Not always. An installer checks whether your ducts are the right size and sealed.
Will I need an electrical upgrade?
Sometimes. An electrician can check your panel capacity.
How long does heat pump installation take?
Often one to two days.
Who installs heat pumps?
A licensed HVAC company. Sifixit can connect you with a local HVAC technician.
Looking for heat pump installation? Call the number on this page to be connected with an independent local provider. For more background, see ENERGY STAR’s heating and cooling advice.
This site is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service contractors. All contractors are independent and this site does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on this site.
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