Mini-Split Efficiency & Cost Calculator
When to switch heating sources.
Compare mini-split heat pumps vs. propane, natural gas, and fuel oil across outdoor temperatures. Enter your electric rate, fuel prices, and indoor setpoint to see live $/hour, effective COP, and the break-even (switchover) temperature where another heat source becomes cheaper. Works in °F/°C and supports natural gas priced by therm / m³ / GJ. Great for DIYers and homeowners planning, budgeting, and maximizing savings before they commit.
How to use it
Pick your fuels (Mini-split, Propane, Natural Gas, Fuel Oil).
Enter prices: $/kWh for electric, and fuel prices (choose the correct unit for gas).
Set temperatures: indoor target and current outdoor temp (or drag the slider).
(Optional) Estimate heating demand with area + climate zone, then Apply.
(Optional) Toggle Fixed | Scaled w/ outdoor to let heating load change with weather.
What you’ll see
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$/hour for each source at the current outdoor temperature
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Effective COP for the mini-split
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Switchover temps vs. Propane / Gas / Oil (where each becomes cheaper)
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Charts showing costs and performance across temperatures
Notes & assumptions
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“Heating Demand (BTU/h)” is constant unless you choose Scaled w/ outdoor.
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Climate zone shows a typical winter design temp to help pick the right zone.
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You can override any default (BTU/therm, AFUE, etc.) if you have exact specs.
Answer the following searches
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Use our Heat Load from Utility Bills tool here:
Heat Load Estimator.
If you don’t know your heat-load characteristics, the generic benchmarks are fine—but a measured load will give you much tighter, apples-to-apples comparisons.
Energy & Temperature Efficiency Advisor
Quick Heat Load Estimator (optional)
House / Load
Sources to Compare
Mini‑split (Electric)
Propane
Natural Gas
Fuel Oil
Results (at current outdoor temp)
Charts
FAQ and Calculator Information
This calculator is provided as an informational tool for DIY mini-split installers and homeowners exploring heat pump options. Actual performance will vary depending on equipment model, installation quality, insulation, and climate conditions. Use the results as a planning guide to estimate potential savings and efficiency, then confirm details with manufacturer specifications or a licensed HVAC professional. By comparing COP, fuel costs, and break-even temperatures, you can make a more confident decision before investing in a new heating system.1. How accurate is this mini-split efficiency calculator?
This calculator gives you a close estimate of real-world performance by combining fuel costs, COP (Coefficient of Performance), and outdoor temperature. Actual results may vary depending on your home’s insulation, installation quality, and the exact model of mini-split you choose.
2. What is COP and why does it matter?
COP, or Coefficient of Performance, measures how efficiently a heat pump converts electricity into heat. A COP of 3 means you get three units of heat for every unit of electricity used. Higher COP values mean better efficiency and lower heating costs.
3. Can I use this tool to size my mini-split?
No… This calculator is meant for comparing efficiency and costs, not equipment sizing. For sizing, you’ll need to calculate your home’s heating load in BTUs, often based on square footage, insulation, and climate zone.
4. Does this calculator work for cold climates?
Yes. The tool includes presets for standard and cold-climate mini-splits, showing how efficiency changes as the outdoor temperature drops. This is especially useful for DIY installers in northern regions.
5. Should I still consult an HVAC professional?
If you’re planning a full installation, yes. This calculator is designed as a planning tool for DIY installers and homeowners to understand costs and performance, but final sizing and safety checks are best confirmed with a professional.