Heat Pumps in Madison: What Homeowners Should Know
Madison has roughly 7,947 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 $17,000 — or about $16,000 after the local rebate of up to $1,000.
Swapping electric-resistance heat for a heat pump in Madison cuts heating costs from about $5,002 to $2,273 a year — a saving of roughly $2,728 annually at the local electricity rate of $0.179/kWh, and an estimated $36,256 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 Wisconsin rebates and the income-qualified HEEHRA program (up to $8,000) can still bring the cost down. The local utility is Madison Gas & Electric.
Cost & Savings Breakdown
2,000 sq ft home switching from electric resistance in Madison
15-Year Savings Projection
Available Rebates
Choosing a Heat Pump Installer in Madison
- 1.Get at least 3 quotes. Prices in Wisconsin 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 Madison's 7,947 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 Wisconsin rebate and HEEHRA applications for you.
Common Questions
How much does a heat pump cost in Madison?
A whole-home heat pump in Madison, Wisconsin costs approximately $17,000 installed, or about $16,000 after the state/utility rebate of up to $1,000. The federal 25C tax credit expired December 31, 2025.
How much can a heat pump save in Madison?
A typical Madison home switching from electric-resistance heat saves about $2,728 per year — roughly $36,256 over 15 years — with a payback of about 5.9 years. Savings are even larger versus propane or heating oil.
What size heat pump do I need in Madison?
A typical 2,000 sq ft home in Madison needs roughly a 5-ton heat pump, given the local climate of 7,947 heating degree days. A Manual J load calculation from your installer will confirm the exact size.
Do heat pumps work in Madison's climate?
Yes. With 7,947 heating degree days, Madison 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 Madison
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: