Heat Pumps in Burlington: What Homeowners Should Know
Burlington has roughly 8,526 heating degree days a year, a very cold climate that determines how hard a heat pump works each winter. A typical 2,000 sq ft home here needs about a 5-ton system, installed for around $17,500 — or about $15,100 after the local rebate of up to $2,400.
Swapping electric-resistance heat for a heat pump in Burlington cuts heating costs from about $5,246 to $2,385 a year — a saving of roughly $2,861 annually at the local electricity rate of $0.175/kWh, and an estimated $39,711 over 15 years. Savings are even larger if you currently heat with propane or oil. Note: the federal 25C heat-pump tax credit expired at the end of 2025, but Vermont rebates and the income-qualified HEEHRA program (up to $8,000) can still bring the cost down. The local utility is Green Mountain Power.
Cost & Savings Breakdown
2,000 sq ft home switching from electric resistance in Burlington
15-Year Savings Projection
Available Rebates
Choosing a Heat Pump Installer in Burlington
- 1.Get at least 3 quotes. Prices in Vermont vary widely — comparing bids on the same ~5-ton system is the fastest way to avoid overpaying.
- 2.Insist on a Manual J load calculation. Proper sizing for Burlington's 8,526 heating degree days is the single biggest factor in comfort and efficiency.
- 3.Choose a cold-climate (ccASHP) unit. Look for a strong HSPF2 rating and a 10-year compressor warranty.
- 4.Ask about rebate paperwork. Good installers handle Vermont rebate and HEEHRA applications for you.
Common Questions
How much does a heat pump cost in Burlington?
A whole-home heat pump in Burlington, Vermont costs approximately $17,500 installed, or about $15,100 after the state/utility rebate of up to $2,400. The federal 25C tax credit expired December 31, 2025.
How much can a heat pump save in Burlington?
A typical Burlington home switching from electric-resistance heat saves about $2,861 per year — roughly $39,711 over 15 years — with a payback of about 5.3 years. Savings are even larger versus propane or heating oil.
What size heat pump do I need in Burlington?
A typical 2,000 sq ft home in Burlington needs roughly a 5-ton heat pump, given the local climate of 8,526 heating degree days. A Manual J load calculation from your installer will confirm the exact size.
Do heat pumps work in Burlington's climate?
Yes. With 8,526 heating degree days, Burlington is a very cold climate. A cold-climate heat pump is recommended here — modern units maintain efficient heating well below 0°F.
Compare Heat Pump Costs Near Burlington
Planning other home-energy upgrades?
Solar, batteries, heat pumps and EV chargers all work together. Run the numbers on the rest of your electrification plan: