Yearly heating and cooling cost
Energy use and solar
How switching changes what you buy from PG&E each year.
Worth knowing
Running cost isn't the whole decision
Air conditioning, comfort, indoor air quality, the age of your current equipment, ductwork, installation cost and rebates can matter as much as the yearly energy bill.
Higher HSPF2 means cheaper heat
HSPF2 measures heating efficiency over a whole season. Real performance still depends on weather, sizing, thermostat settings and duct losses.
Solar covers only the added use
The solar size here covers just the extra electricity from the heat pump. Roof, shade, season, PG&E rules and the rest of your home's use still matter.
How these numbers are calculated
Your home's yearly heating need is estimated from its size, location and insulation. Your current cost is that heat divided by your furnace's efficiency, at your gas or propane price. The heat pump's electricity is the same heat divided by its HSPF2 rating.
Cooling need is estimated the same way. Current AC and heat pump cooling use are that need divided by their SEER2 ratings. If you have no AC today, the heat pump adds cooling you didn't have before, which raises its cost. Choosing “No cooling” compares heating only; if you have AC today, it's assumed to stay in place.
Solar size is the added electricity divided by expected yearly output: from 950 kWh per kW for a shady roof to 1,700 for full sun (1,500 for mostly sunny). This is a screening tool, not a Manual J load calculation or equipment-sizing recommendation. It leaves out fixed PG&E charges, equipment price, rebates, maintenance, duct repairs, electrical upgrades and future rate changes.
About this planning tool
Is this a proposal or quote?
No. This is an educational calculator. It's not a proposal, engineering design, utility bill guarantee or financial promise.
Are the savings guaranteed?
No. Actual costs depend on weather, thermostat settings, PG&E rates, equipment selection, ductwork, installation quality and how the home is used.
Why email my results?
It gives you a copy of your inputs and results to review later, share with family, or use to start a more detailed conversation.
What's needed to size a system for my home?
A contractor should complete a room-by-room Manual J load calculation before choosing equipment, and check the ductwork and electrical panel.
About NRG Geek
NRG Geek is Robert Kelly's independent educational platform for practical Northern California guidance on solar, battery backup, EV charging, heat pumps and home electrification.
Every home is different. Home size, insulation, ductwork, climate and comfort preferences all affect heat pump sizing and real-world costs.
Privacy, legal and terms
How is my information used?
The Email My Results button opens your email app with your inputs and results. Nothing is sent until you send it. If you ask for personal guidance, Robert may follow up. NRG Geek does not sell your personal information.
Is this a proposal or guarantee?
No. Results are estimates for educational planning and are not a proposal, engineering design, financial guarantee or utility bill guarantee.
Third-party links
Linked websites have their own privacy policies and terms. NRG Geek is not responsible for their content.
Accuracy
Equipment ratings, PG&E rates, regulations and incentives change over time. Verify important information before making financial or construction decisions.
Copyright
© 2026 NRG Geek. All rights reserved. This calculator and its educational content may not be reproduced without written permission.