What is the best time of year to buy a heat pump?

Author: Eula Wintheiser  |  Last update: Monday, October 6, 2025

Early in the spring or fall may be the best time of year to buy a heat pump system and have it installed. There are a couple of reasons for this. Lower demand. HVAC companies are swamped in the heat of summer and the freezing temperatures of winter.

Should I wait until 2024 to buy a heat pump?

Should I wait until 2024 to buy a heat pump? It's not necessary to wait until 2024 to buy a heat pump. The California heat pump rebate program is currently available, offering financial incentives for homeowners who install energy-efficient heat pump systems.

What time of year is the cheapest to replace HVAC?

During spring and fall, most people aren't running their HVAC systems as often which, in turn, means HVAC companies are not as busy and are not selling as many new units. This drop in demand enables them to offer deals on their services and equipment.

What is the 20 degree rule for heat pumps?

Simply put, it means you should never set your thermostat for a temperature more than 20 degrees cooler than the outside air. Why not? Most air conditioning systems can only handle a 20-degree difference between the outside and inside air temperatures.

When not to get a heat pump?

Heat pumps might struggle in drafty, poorly insulated homes. You might need to upgrade your electrical service to support whole-house electric heating. And it's possible that you'll want to keep (or add) a backup heating system just in case the weather gets so unusually cold that your heat pump can't keep up.

What are the Pros and Cons of Heat Pumps?

What is the main disadvantage of a heat pump?

Heat Pumps Rely on Electricity.

Since the primary power source of a heat pump is electricity, power outages can interrupt operation. Of course, many traditional HVAC systems share this limitation; investing in an auxiliary power source can limit your risks.

What is the average cost to install a heat pump?

New Heat Pump Installation Cost

The average cost of a new heat pump installation is $5,613. Most homeowners spend in the range of $4,068-$7,160.

How cool should my house be if it's 100 outside?

For many of us, 70 degrees is the ideal indoor temperature, but when it is close to 100 degrees outside, your AC unit will be working quite hard to meet these expectations. Consider setting your thermostat at 75 degrees to 80 degrees in your home if the outside temperature is approaching triple digits.

At what temperature is a heat pump no longer efficient?

Heat pumps do not operate as efficiently when temperatures drop to between 25 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit for most systems. A heat pump works best when the temperature is above 40. Once outdoor temperatures drop to 40 degrees, heat pumps start losing efficiency, and they consume more energy to do their jobs.

How cold is too cold for a heat pump?

Most standard heat pumps will function at 100% efficiency until the outside temperature reaches about 40° F. However, when the temperature dips below this, most heat pumps are not able to maintain efficiency. They become much less effective at temperatures between 20° F to 30° F.

How much should I pay for a new HVAC?

Generally, the average cost to replace an HVAC system can run anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the customers' needs. We know that putting that much money down on anything can be daunting, but for a system as crucial as an HVAC unit, you can never be too safe.

What month is the cheapest to buy an air conditioner?

Fall or spring are the best times to buy air conditioners—you could save 10% to 15% on a new unit. Consider installing a new AC system when renovating your home or altering its interior layout. A new central air conditioner costs $3,500 to $7,500 to install.

How to save money on a new HVAC system?

Save Money with these Insider Secrets When Buying a New HVAC System
  1. Get More Than One Estimate. ...
  2. Always Get a Written Quote. ...
  3. Energy Company HVAC Rebates / HVAC Tax Credits. ...
  4. Manufacturer Rebates - Don't be Deceived. ...
  5. Does a Cash Sale Make a Difference to Save Money?

What is the 2024 federal tax credit for heat pumps?

The quick version: Any household can claim a $2,000 federal tax credit (or 30% of the price, whichever is less) against the cost to install an air-source heat pump that meets modest efficiency requirements.

What is the average lifespan of a heat pump?

The life expectancy of a heat pump depends on several factors, such as the type of heat pump, your location, and how well the heat pump is maintained. Heat pumps normally last an average of 15 years, though some can wear out after a decade.

Is it better to replace HVAC in 2024 or 2025?

If you replace your aging air conditioner before Jan. 1, 2025, you can save as much as 30% on new installation costs.

Can a heat pump cool a house in 100 degree weather?

But heat pumps work to cool homes, too, and are capable of working in hot weather, just like an air conditioner. According to the Department of Energy, heat pumps work as well at conditioning an equivalent-sized space as an air conditioner but they dehumidify better and work more efficiently.

Which heat pump is the best?

Five of the best heat pump brands are:
  • Mitsubishi.
  • Lennox.
  • Goodman.
  • Carrier.
  • Trane.

What is the new refrigerant for heat pumps?

Starting in January 2025, no new HVAC systems will use R-410A refrigerant. Instead, most residential systems will use either R-32 or R-454B refrigerant, both of which have a comparably lower environmental impact.

Is 81 too hot for a house?

In general, 80 degrees is too hot for a house if people are inside. However, if people aren't home during the day or for vacation during the summer, an indoor temperature of 80 degrees can save energy until you return and lower the temperature.

How long should it take to cool a house from 90 to 72?

Cooling a house from 90 degrees to 72 degrees typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on various factors.

How cool should my house be if it's 110 outside in summer?

Just because the outdoor temperature is above 100, the Ideal temperature to set your AC unit to doesn't change — it's 78 degrees. Higher temperatures in the home are to be expected when the weather is hotter than usual, but your thermostat can still be set the same as if it were a lower temperature outside.

How long does it take to install a heat pump?

On average, heat pump installation ranges from about three to four hours. If your heat pump installation includes new ductwork, that may take a full day. Let's talk about the process so you can conceptualize it for yourself.

What is the payback period for a heat pump?

In many cases, an ASHP can provide a payback period within the range of 5 to 15 years, although it can be shorter or longer depending on the factors mentioned above.

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