An air source heat pump on average will cost between $3,500 and $5,700 for each indoor air handler unit you plan to install in each room (or zone). Total installation of a ducted central air source heat pump system can cost between $10,500 and $18,975. It will largely depend how many indoor units you need, home size, and if you need ductwork replacement or installation. Sometimes additional electric work is needed as well so this can increase the cost a bit more. Keep in mind that Superior Co-Op HVAC installers will always make sure that everything in your home needed for the air source heat pump to function is up to code.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump is a highly efficient heating and air conditioning systems that can deliver one to three times more heat than the electricity they consume. Their efficiency stems from their ability to move or transfer heat from the air versus traditional systems, which must convert it from a fuel source.
Until recently, air source heat pumps were used primarily in the southern regions of the United States due to homes with mild climates that don’t need huge heating capabilities. However, advances in the technology have allowed heat pump units to offer a viable space-heating alternative in colder regions of the country versus electric resistance, or gas and oil furnace heat systems. An air source heat pump can work on its own or by also working along side a gas furnace unit. Because the air source heat pump system assumes some of the heating load, the backup furnace system operates less frequently which increases overall efficiency of your home and reduces energy consumptions and costs substantially.
When deciding to install an air source heat pump, you have two options. If you have existing ductwork in your walls and attic, you can easily replace your current HVAC system with a central ducted air source heat pump.
If you will need to install ductwork and vents in your home, it may be more affordable to install a ductless mini split heat pump system instead. A ductless heat pump doesn’t need your home to have ducts or vents to heat or cool your home. However, you will have to plan certain zones and get a heat pump that can handle your cooling and heating needs. Air source heat pumps are much more affordable than installing a geothermal heat pump type.
Central Ducted Air Source Heat Pumps
A ducted air source heat pump incorporates a circuit of air ducts and vents that circulate and transport conditioned air throughout the structure and back to the system. Ducted systems are most often used in new construction or when replacing outdated equipment in homes that already have a duct system in place.
Ductless Mini Split Air Source Heat Pumps
Ductless mini split heat pump systems offer broad versatility, as they require zero ductwork. A simple, three-inch hole bored through an exterior wall is the only home modification required. The hole is necessary to provide access for the copper suction lines, drain line and wiring between the two components. Ductless systems are ideal for room additions and garage applications where a separate heating or cooling system might be desirable. They also offer a convenient way to increase or supplement existing heating and cooling in areas of your Capital Region of New York home that may be lacking.
Heat Pump Labor Installation Costs
For labor costs, you can expect most heat pump installers to charge anywhere from $68 to $175 per hour. This will largely depend on the amount of contractors it takes to complete the job and the competitive local installation service rates that are common for HVAC contractors in your area. Expect the average heat pump installation to take up to 20 hours for a brand new system with ductwork. It could take much less time to install if you are simply replacing a heat pump system or repairing your current one.
Comfort and energy efficiency are the biggest advantages of a new air source heat pump system. But if your heat pump unit is installed incorrectly or isn’t the right size, you won’t experience either of those benefits.
Unless you are a builder or remodeler, it’s worth hiring a ductless air conditioner installer with the right tools in their belt. The contractor has to lay concrete for the outdoor unit, cut a hole in the exterior wall, run the electrical lines for the conduit, and perform other tasks as needed, such as getting rid of some of your current system’s components. Expect to pay between $1,300 and $2,000.
While you may be tempted to settle for the best price for a heat pump installation regardless of specific experience, remember that ductless heating and cooling systems are still a niche market in the U.S. You may have to hunt a little for the right contractor, so don’t settle for someone you’re not sure will do a good job just because they offer the best price.
What Size Air Source Heat Pump Do I Need?
Depending on the size of your home or the rooms you are needing to cool and heat, you’ll want to install an air source heat pump that has the ability to efficiently maintain your home’s temperature. For a 400 square foot area needing to be cooled or heated you would want an air source heat pump able to produce 9,000 BTU’s. You can see our full chart for room size and BTU capabilities needed below:
Ductless Heat Pump Size Needed
