Heat pump replacement: scope, costs, and what to ask

What replacement should address

Compare the existing and proposed system’s heating as well as cooling role. Ask which indoor units, air handler, thermostat, supplemental heaters, and refrigerant lines remain compatible and will be retained. Request a written sizing and cold-weather design explanation instead of selecting a replacement solely by nominal tonnage.

Understand the system being assessed

Heat pumps provide heating and cooling by transferring heat. Describe performance in both modes and identify any supplemental heating equipment in the home.

U.S. Department of Energy — Heat pump systems · Source checked 2026-09-06

Useful details to gather before the visit

You do not need to diagnose the equipment. Record the observations you can make without opening panels or accessing unsafe areas.

• Does the problem affect heating, cooling, or both?
• Is the system ducted or connected to separate indoor heads?
• Do you have a retained furnace or supplemental electric heat?

Have the model, approximate age, prior service findings, and warranty documents ready if available. Describe recent changes to the home and your goal for the visit.

Compare the whole replacement project

List every component being replaced and every component retained. Ask why the proposed scope addresses the original problem, what site work it requires, and which warranties apply. When repair remains an option, get a separate repair assessment so you can compare timing, out-of-pocket cost, and remaining uncertainty.

What affects the price for this project?

Compare the complete indoor/outdoor equipment combination, controls, supplemental-heat plan, electrical work, ducts or room units, drainage, and removal. Ask whether an incentive is confirmed or merely assumed, and keep a budget before incentives alongside any net figure.

Temperaly does not set provider prices. Ask for the charge for the proposed scope and a written explanation of exclusions. A useful quote separates required work from optional improvements so you can compare offers for the same result.

An example of a question worth resolving

Two proposals have similar cooling ratings, but only one explains winter heating capacity and supplemental heat. Request the missing winter design information before treating their prices as comparable.

Use the example to frame your questions, not to diagnose your home. Ask the provider what evidence supports their recommendation and how they will verify the result.

Choose your next step

Review the scope, price, timing, and warranty before authorizing work. Start a heat pump replacement request with your service city and state and what you need help with. A request does not reserve an appointment.

For a broader equipment decision, read repair versus replacement. For a current loss of comfort, see AC not cooling or no heat.