Heat pump replacement cost by size
| Job | What's included | Typical market range | Fair price* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat pump, 2 ton | 15.2 SEER2 / 7.8 HSPF2 split heat pump + matched air handler or coil · A2L-refrigerant system (R-454B or R-32) · Removal and refrigerant recovery of old system · Reuse existing line set after flush & pressure test | $5,000–$9,000 | $7,600 |
| Heat pump, 3 ton | 15.2 SEER2 / 7.8 HSPF2 split heat pump + matched air handler or coil · A2L-refrigerant system (R-454B or R-32) · Removal and refrigerant recovery of old system · Reuse existing line set after flush & pressure test | $5,700–$13,000 | $8,700 |
| Heat pump, 4 ton | 15.2 SEER2 / 7.8 HSPF2 split heat pump + matched air handler or coil · A2L-refrigerant system (R-454B or R-32) · Removal and refrigerant recovery of old system · Reuse existing line set after flush & pressure test | $6,500–$14,000 | $9,900 |
| Heat pump, 5 ton | 15.2 SEER2 / 7.8 HSPF2 split heat pump + matched air handler or coil · A2L-refrigerant system (R-454B or R-32) · Removal and refrigerant recovery of old system · Reuse existing line set after flush & pressure test | $7,000–$15,000 | $11,200 |
*National base price before local adjustment and add-ons. Prices are current estimates while our provider network finalizes local pricing. Market ranges come from published contractor prices and national cost guides (sources). Updated October 2026.
Like an AC, a heat pump’s size is usually in the model number on the outdoor unit. The digits 24, 36, 48 or 60 mean 2, 3, 4 or 5 tons. Most homes replace like-for-like. If you’ve had comfort problems, ask for a Manual J load calculation.
What’s included, and what costs extra
| Add-on | When you need it | Fixed price |
|---|---|---|
| Permit & inspection | Required in most cities for HVAC change-outs. Your pro pulls it. | $225 |
| New / upgraded electrical circuit | For heat pump water heaters or a larger AC breaker. Assumes your panel has room (no panel upgrade). | $600 |
| Attic / crawlspace / tight-closet access | Extra labor when the unit is hard to reach. | $375 |
| New refrigerant line set | If the old lines are damaged or the wrong size for the new system. | $850 |
| New smart thermostat | Installed and paired. | $275 |
| Condensate pump | When there's no floor drain nearby. | $275 |
| Same-day / after-hours service | Book for today, or evening and weekend slots. | $250 |
Heat pump vs AC + furnace
| Heat pump (3 ton) | AC + 80% gas furnace (3 ton) | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed price | $8,700 | $10,500 |
| Heating | Electric heat pump, with optional backup strips | Gas furnace |
| Needs a gas line | No | Yes |
| Best fit | Mild to moderate winters, or homes without gas | Cold winters with affordable gas |
Check these before you replace (DIY)
- Replace the air filter. Restricted airflow hurts both heating and cooling.
- Check the thermostat mode. “Emergency heat” or “Aux” left on runs costly backup heat strips.
- Let defrost finish. In winter, the outdoor unit regularly pauses heating to melt frost, and steam from the unit is normal. Ice that never clears isn’t.
- Check the breakers for the indoor and outdoor units, and clear snow, leaves or debris from around the outdoor unit.
Leave it to a pro: refrigerant, reversing valve, capacitor and compressor work.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace a heat pump?
A fair price for a central (ducted) heat pump replacement is $7,600 for 2 tons up to $11,200 for 5 tons, installed with a matched indoor coil or air handler, removal of the old system and refrigerant recovery.
How long does a heat pump last?
Many central heat pumps last around 10–15 years. They run year-round for both heating and cooling, so they often wear out sooner than an AC-only system in the same climate.
Is a heat pump cheaper than an AC plus a furnace?
Upfront, a heat pump costs less than replacing both an AC and a furnace: a 3-ton heat pump is $8,700, compared with $10,500 for a 3-ton AC + furnace bundle. Running costs depend on your climate and your electricity and gas rates.
Do heat pumps work in cold climates?
Modern cold-climate heat pumps can heat effectively well below freezing. In very cold regions, many homes pair a heat pump with a gas furnace as backup (dual-fuel) or keep electric backup heat strips.
Are there tax credits for heat pumps in 2026?
The federal 25C tax credit for heat pumps ended for equipment installed after December 31, 2025. Some states offer income-qualified HEAR rebates, and many utilities offer heat pump rebates. Check your state energy office and utility.