Heat Pump Installation Guide: How to Install a Heat Pump

Installing an energy-efficient heat pump is a major step toward a more comfortable, efficient home. But beyond choosing the right system, a professional installation is the key to ensuring it performs reliably and efficiently for years to come.

We’ll walk you through how to install a heat pump, so you know what to expect on installation day and feel confident investing in your home’s future.

What is a heat pump?

Heat pumps are energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. These systems, including cold climate heat pumps, can serve almost all areas of the US.

While a heat pump is mainly known for use in HVAC, the same technology is used in heat pump dryers and water heaters, too. 

Heat pumps work by transferring heat from one place to another via refrigerant gas, compressors, and condensation coils. Since heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate it, they use far less energy. They can reduce your electricity usage for heating by about 75% compared to furnace or baseboard heating, according to the Department of Energy.

Read more: How Does a Heat Pump Work?

Central heat pump installation

Installing a new central heat pump and removing an old one is best handled by a professional for performance, safety, and environmental reasons.

Removing the old heat pump properly

Before removing the old heat pump, a professional must safely dispose of the old refrigerant. Because of their potential to harm the atmosphere, refrigerants are regulated by state and federal governments. After dealing with the refrigerant, the installer will disconnect and remove the heat pump.

Prep the site for the condenser unit

The condenser unit is the big metal box with a big fan that sits outside. It needs a level, stable, elevated place to go. The ground must be cleared and leveled, with a cement pad in place so the unit is away from dirt, vegetation, standing water, and snow. In areas with more winter weather, the unit may be elevated 6-12 inches to keep it clear of snow. 

Replace the coils and lines

Your HVAC installer will replace the lines that carry the refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units.

More wiring, valves, and sensors

There may be electrical wiring to be replaced or installed, like wiring from your thermostat to your heat pump or wiring to power the emergency heat strip. The installer will check the system’s sensors and reversing valve are working to switch between heating and cooling. 

Wiring will go from an electrical panel to the disconnect box to power the heat pump. The disconnect box lets you turn off power to the HVAC system. Installing a new disconnect box is usually recommended and may be required by local codes. 

New thermostat

If you’re getting a new thermostat with the new system, the HVAC contractor will install it now. This new system could be the ideal time to switch to a smart thermostat. Not all heat pumps are compatible with smart thermostats.

Testing

Testing a new heating and cooling system ensures everything works correctly. It takes at least 15-20 minutes for the system, specifically the refrigerant, to run through a cycle. It takes up to two hours to properly test all the settings (including emergency heat) and the new thermostat’s functioning.

Mini-split heat pump installation

Mini-split heat pumps, or ductless heat pumps, include a condensing unit outside, one or more air handlers inside, refrigerant lines, and electrical wiring. 

Decide where the indoor unit (and outdoor unit) will go

Start with where you want an air handler placed and choose an exterior wall. Inside, it’s best to place an air handler high on a wall, about six feet or higher, and not in direct sunlight, which can throw off the unit's temperature sensing. The air handler needs enough space around it for adequate airflow.

Prepare to put the air handler up

The installer should locate studs in the wall to install the air handler’s mounting bracket, avoiding pipes, wires, or ducts. They will also drill a 3-inch hole through the wall to the outside for the refrigerant, drainage, and control lines.

The bracket should be level for proper drainage.

Put the air handler on the wall

The installer will attach the control wire to the air handler, then send the refrigerant, drainage and control lines through the hole to the exterior. They’ll place the air handler on the bracket and secure it. 

Installing the condenser unit

A mini-split heat pump’s condenser unit can go on a cement pad on the ground, like a central condenser unit, or it can be mounted on a wall or on a rooftop. Once it's safely mounted, the installer will connect the lines from the interior to the exterior condenser unit and secure them to the exterior wall if necessary. 

Remember, it’s likely required by law to hire a licensed professional to handle a heat pump’s refrigerant.

How long does a heat pump installation take?

Most heat pump installation jobs take from a few hours to a full day, though some installations are more complex. 

If your system needs new ductwork, this will make the project longer and probably more expensive. An installation will take longer if your home needs more than one heat pump because of its layout or size. 

If the site for the condenser unit needs additional work or more work is needed after testing, a job may take longer than planned.

Can I install a heat pump myself?

The answer in almost all circumstances is no. Most states require a licensed HVAC professional to install heat pumps.

Even if you have confidence in your DIY skills, an improperly installed HVAC system can run inefficiently, which will be more expensive over time. It can also result in future repairs and a shorter lifespan for the heat pump. This could prove more expensive than a professional installation. A DIY or unlicensed installation job may void a warranty or future warrantied maintenance work. 

Some mini-split heat pumps are marketed as DIY kits. Even here you may need a licensed technician for the refrigerant and electrical work. 

Heat pump rebates

Most states participate in a rebate program for energy-efficient upgrades, up to $8,000 per home. Eligibility and actual value may depend on your state’s program and specifics such as income.

Heat pump installation and leasing

Buying and installing a heat pump can run up a bill. If the cost of a heat pump is too much, heat pump and other HVAC leasing can remove the upfront cost in exchange for predictable monthly payments that cover the cost of the equipment, installation, and regular maintenance. 

If you’re curious about how a heat pump or other new HVAC system will work at your home, explore your options with the Palmetto Comfort Plan today.  

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to install a heat pump?

Most heat pump installations take 1-2 days. Some factors, such as additional work needed or the complexity of the system can extend that timeline. 

Can I install a heat pump myself?

Some DIY heat pumps exist. These come with pre-charged refrigerant lines the manufacturers say can be installed without the help of a licensed HVAC technician. Make sure any DIY projects you undertake are within your ability and comply with local regulations.

What is the average cost of a heat pump?

The purchase and installation cost of a standard, ducted heat pump system or a ductless mini-split heat pump system varies a lot. The size, efficiency, brand, local cost of labor, and much more can push the price higher or lower. The average cost of buying and installing a standard heat pump is about $6,000, with the range going from $3,200-$36,000, according to retail and consumer sources. For mini-split heat pump systems, the average is about $3,000, and the range for purchase and installation is from $600-$14,500.

What are the benefits of a heat pump?

Heat pumps can provide an energy-efficient, all-in-one system for home heating and cooling. In some cases, a heat pump can reduce your heating and cooling costs, especially when you switch from heating with electric resistance, propane, or heating oil, or your heat pump is paired with home solar panels.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Palmetto does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors.