Heat Pump Running Cost Calculator
Estimate heat-pump heating or cooling electricity cost from input power, runtime, seasonal days, and rate.
Estimate heat-pump operating cost
How this calculator works
Electrical input is different from delivered heating capacity. A heat pump can deliver more heat energy than the electricity it consumes, but input changes with outdoor temperature, thermostat setting, airflow, defrost, and equipment staging.
Equivalent runtime means the number of full-power hours that would use the same daily energy. Variable-speed systems may operate many clock hours at lower input.
A heat pump averaging 2.5 kW for eight equivalent hours per day at $0.18/kWh costs about $3.60 per day and $540 over a 150-day season.
How to get a more accurate estimate
- Use measured daily kWh or manufacturer performance data at relevant temperatures.
- Include auxiliary resistance heat when it operates.
- Compare similar indoor comfort and the same weather period when evaluating changes.
Frequently asked questions
Is rated heating capacity the same as input power?
No. Capacity describes heat delivered; input power is the electricity consumed.
How do I include backup heat?
Add its kWh to measured heat-pump energy or calculate resistance heat separately and combine the totals.
Why does cost rise in very cold weather?
Heating demand can increase while heat-pump efficiency and capacity change, and auxiliary heat may run.
Results use the values you enter and the formula shown above. Real bills can include taxes, minimum charges, tiers, time-of-use pricing, cycling losses, and other adjustments. Use a recent bill or a plug-in energy meter when accuracy matters.