What a heat pump needs
A ducted heat pump needs a dedicated 240 V circuit for the outdoor unit, sized to the equipment's nameplate. If the system includes electric backup heat strips, those can need a large additional circuit — sometimes the biggest single load in the house.
Will a 100 A service cope?
Sometimes. A heat pump with gas backup (dual fuel) adds a modest load. An all-electric system with backup strips, plus an EV charger and an induction range, usually pushes a 100 A service past what it should carry.
Options
- Dual-fuel: keep the gas furnace as backup and avoid electric strips.
- Load management: devices that prevent the biggest loads running at once.
- 200 A upgrade: the clean long-term fix if you're electrifying everything.
Plan once
If a heat pump, an EV and an induction range are all on the list for the next few years, calculate the load for the end state and size the service once. Try our load meter, then read panel upgrade costs.
Quick questions
Do I need 200 A for a heat pump?
Not necessarily. Dual-fuel systems add a modest load. All-electric systems with backup strips often do push a 100 A service over.
Does a mini-split need a dedicated circuit?
Yes — each outdoor unit typically needs its own dedicated circuit sized to the nameplate.
Who wires the heat pump — HVAC or electrician?
The HVAC contractor installs the equipment; a licensed electrician provides the circuit, disconnect and permit.
