Mini split heat pump (heating) vs. heat pump: running cost
A mini split heat pump (heating) is cheaper to run: about $233 a year versus $920 for a heat pump at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $687 difference.
| Mini split heat pump (heating) | Heat pump | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,100 W | 4,000 W |
| Watt range | 400–3,000 W | 2,000–8,000 W |
| Typical use | 14 hours a day for 5 months a year | 24 hours a day for 5 months a year |
| Energy per year | 1,297 kWh | 5,114 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 11¢ | 25¢ |
| Cost per day | $1.53 | $6.04 |
| Cost per month | $46.65 | $184 |
| Cost per year | $233 | $920 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $564 | $2,225 |
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What drives the difference
- Mini split heat pump (heating): Inverter mini splits modulate output, so watts are average draw at rated capacity; at mild temperatures they deliver 3 or more kWh of heat per kWh of electricity. Figures are for a single zone.
- Heat pump: Watts are average compressor plus blower draw in heating, including occasional backup strip heat. Defaults give about 5,000 kWh a winter for a 3-ton system in a moderate climate; very cold climates use more because of backup heat.
Ways to cut either cost
Lets you schedule and adjust from a phone so it never heats an empty home at full set point.
See options on AmazonKeeps the outdoor coil above snow and helps defrost drainage, maintaining winter efficiency.
See options on AmazonManages auxiliary heat and setbacks to keep the compressor doing most of the work.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a mini split heat pump (heating) or a heat pump?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a heat pump costs about $920 a year versus $233 for a mini split heat pump (heating). That's $687 more, or 3.9× as much.
How many watts do mini split heat pump (heating) and heat pump use?
A mini split heat pump (heating) typically draws 1,100 W (range 400–3,000 W). A heat pump draws 4,000 W (range 2,000–8,000 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.