Heat pump circuits
Power to the unit, sized to its nameplate
The company installing your heat pump sets the unit. We run the power: a dedicated circuit from the panel, a weatherproof disconnect outside, and a breaker sized to the nameplate on the model you chose.
Send us the model number before you buy. If the panel cannot carry it, we say so early, when you can still choose a smaller unit or plan the upgrade.
Signs you need it
A heat pump is on the way
The installer needs power at the outdoor unit before they arrive.
A water heater replacement
A heat pump water heater needs its own circuit and a spot for the drain.
Mini-splits in several rooms
Each indoor head may want its own circuit, or share one.
A panel with no space
No free slot for a double breaker.
A utility rebate on the table
The program wants the model and serial number on the invoice.
A long run from the panel
The outdoor unit is on the far side of the house.
What the visit and the job include
- 01
Model and load
You send the model. We add it to the panel’s load.
- 02
Route the cable
We pick a path and tell you which walls or ceilings we open.
- 03
Wire and disconnect
Circuit, breaker and outdoor disconnect, labeled at the panel.
- 04
Inspect and hand over
Inspection, then photos and the invoice itemized for any rebate form.
What changes the price
There is no number here because the same job costs different amounts in two houses. How pricing works lists what we count; the number arrives in writing after the visit.
Distance from the panel
A short run on an open basement ceiling costs less than one fished through finished walls.
Circuits and heads
One outdoor unit is one circuit; a system with many indoor heads can be more.
Panel room
If the panel has no slot, a subpanel or a panel swap comes first.
Questions about this job
Do I need a bigger panel for a heat pump or an EV charger?
Sometimes, and often not. Each takes a share of the panel’s amps. A load calculation says whether both fit, one fits, or a load-management device or a larger service is the cheaper route.
Are there rebates for this work?
Your utility and Efficiency Vermont run programs for heat pumps, heat pump water heaters and some chargers. Each sets its own amounts and rules, and they change, so read the current program page before you buy. We write the invoice the way the forms ask for it.
Do I need a permit, and who pulls it?
Panel, service and new-circuit work usually needs one. We file it, schedule the inspection after the work and put the sign-off in your folder. The permit fee is passed through on the quote at cost.
What does the first visit cost, and is it credited?
The visit has a flat fee, told to you when you book, and it is credited to the work if you go ahead within 30 days. One electrician comes, reads the panel, looks at the meter and the wall you want to use, and photographs all of it.
Send the model number before you buy
One electrician visits, reads the panel and photographs what is behind the cover. The quote follows in writing.