JouleIO

Heat Pump Calculator

Calculate the right heat pump size for your home, estimate annual operating costs and savings compared to your current system, and find your payback period.

Total conditioned living area

IECC climate zone

Your existing heating fuel type

Total annual spending on heating fuel

Air source is more affordable; ground source is more efficient

Frequently Asked Questions

What size heat pump do I need for my house?

Heat pump sizing depends on your home size and climate zone. A general rule is 20-60 BTU per square foot. A 2,000 sqft home in a mixed climate (Zone 4) typically needs about 70,000 BTU or roughly a 6-ton system. Oversizing reduces efficiency, so proper sizing is important.

Are heat pumps worth it in cold climates?

Modern cold-climate heat pumps work efficiently down to -15°F. In Zones 5-6 (cool to cold), air source heat pumps can still save 30-50% vs gas furnaces. Ground source heat pumps work well in any climate since underground temperatures stay constant year-round.

What is the difference between air source and ground source heat pumps?

Air source heat pumps extract heat from outdoor air and cost $4,500-$12,000 installed. Ground source (geothermal) heat pumps extract heat from underground and cost $18,000-$35,000 but are 30-50% more efficient and last longer (25+ years vs 15-20 years for air source).

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