You should hire a licensed HVAC professional to install your heat pump. Here’s what to look for:

• Heat pump specialization: Not all HVAC pros specialize in heat pumps. Some focus on forced-air systems or other types of heating and cooling systems. Be sure to choose someone who demonstrates a lot of experience with heat pump installation.

• Pros who carry your desired brand: Many HVAC pros partner with a handful of brands. If you prefer a particular heat pump brand over others, make sure they carry the brand and model you want.

• Insurance: Confirm that your installer carries insurance to help ensure they’ll cover any costs related to accidents or damage during installation.

• Licensing and certification: Most states require that pros have an HVAC license and EPA certification in handling refrigerants. Research the rules in your area to find out what type of licensing is required. 

For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page.

The national average cost to install or replace a heat pump ranges from approximately $1,560 to $9,250,* according to Thumbtack data. The two main factors that impact installation costs are labor and materials.

The size of the unit and whether it’s an economy, mid-range or high-end model play a role in the total cost. In general, units capable of heating and cooling larger areas and units with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings will cost more.

For new heat pump installations, you may pay more to install or update ductwork and run electrical service to the new installation location. This will add additional costs for both materials and labor.

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

Here are some ways you might be able to save money when installing a heat pump: 

• Start shopping early so you can track sales.

• Get several quotes from HVAC installers and negotiate prices.

• Make sure your unit is sized correctly so you don’t pay extra for one that is too big for your home.

• Compromise between cost and energy efficiency. More efficient units can save money in the long term but may have a higher upfront cost.

• Look for potential tax incentives for heat pump installation. You probably won’t be able to get a heat pump installed for free, but credits may be available that will allow you to save money at tax time if you’ve installed a heat pump with an ENERGY STAR label.

While heat pumps can cost more than other systems, they might save you money in the long run due to lower energy costs. In fact, “the average household in the United States can save $370 per year by switching to a heat pump,” according to Rewiring America. “Homeowners switching from inefficient systems that run on fuel oil, propane or traditional electric resistance (like baseboard heat or electric furnaces) can save closer to $1,000 per year.”

Other potential benefits include:

• Increased energy efficiency

• Year-round comfort with both heating and cooling

• Potential tax credits and incentives

• Reducing your home’s carbon footprint

If you’re looking for an alternative to a traditional HVAC system, a heat pump can be a good choice.

Several signs can indicate that your heat pump is ready for replacement. Here are a few:

• Poor airflow can be a sign that the heat pump’s blower motor is starting to go bad.

• Increased energy bills may indicate that the heat pump is losing its ability to efficiently heat and cool your home.

• Uneven heating and cooling can mean that the heat pump is not correctly sized for the space where it’s installed.

Heat pumps usually last between 10 and 15 years, so if your unit is around this age, it’s worthwhile to consider replacing it before maintenance costs become too high. 

Heat pump installation consists of several steps. Here’s what you can typically expect:

• An HVAC technician will evaluate your home to determine the capacity you need and the best location for installation.

• On the day of installation, your HVAC contractor will remove existing HVAC equipment.

• Next, they’ll install the new heat pump’s outdoor unit. 

• Once the outdoor unit is in place, they’ll install the indoor unit. 

• Last, they’ll connect electrical and refrigerant lines and modify your existing ductwork system as needed.

Installers will typically need a day or two to complete this job. During that time, you can expect moderate disruption within your home, but nothing major. Your contractors will need both indoor and outdoor access to install both sides of the unit and make all of the connections

In most cases, a professional can install a heat pump in a day — usually between 4 and 8 hours. This is only the installation process. Before installing the heat pump, your HVAC professional will need to assess your home to help you choose a correctly sized unit.

Also, some factors might increase the installation timeframe. For example:

• Larger units may take longer to install.

• Extensive ductwork will take longer to install.

• Weather conditions can cause delays in the installation process.

• It can take longer in areas that are hard to access or require extensive preparation before installation.

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.