Annual energy costs
Based on a 3-ton system at today's PG&E rate.
HP 3 vs HP 2 over 15 years
What upgrading from the M series to the P series is worth.
Cumulative savings growth
HP 3 vs HP 2, with PG&E rates rising each year.
Year-by-year savings
| Year | HP 2 cost | HP 3 cost | Annual savings | Cumulative savings |
|---|
How these numbers are calculated
Each heat pump's yearly electricity use is its size in BTUs (tons × 12,000) times the hours it runs, divided by its efficiency rating. Cooling hours use SEER2 and heating hours use HSPF2. Multiplying that use by your PG&E rate gives the yearly cost.
If you don't enter a system size, it's estimated from your home's square footage at about 550 sq ft per ton, rounded to the nearest half ton. The 15-year projection raises the PG&E rate by the yearly increase you pick.
This is a simplified comparison. It assumes the system runs at full output for the hours you enter, while real variable-speed heat pumps often run at partial output. It doesn't include equipment or installation cost, maintenance, rebates, fixed PG&E charges or time-of-use pricing.
| Cooling energy | tons × 12,000 × cooling hours ÷ (SEER2 × 1,000) |
| Heating energy | tons × 12,000 × heating hours ÷ (HSPF2 × 1,000) |
| Size estimate | sq ft ÷ 550, 1.5 to 5 tons |
About this planning tool
Is this a proposal or quote?
No. This is an educational calculator for comparing efficiency ratings. It's not a proposal, engineering design, utility bill guarantee or financial promise.
Are the savings guaranteed?
No. Actual savings depend on your home, weather, how you set your thermostat, ductwork, installation quality, your PG&E rate plan and future rate changes.
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 Manual J load calculation looks at insulation, windows, orientation, ceiling height and ductwork. Proper sizing and installation matter as much as the efficiency rating itself.
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 savings.
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.
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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.