Get Started

Let us help identify your perfect system.

Tell us about your home and preferences, and get a customized recommendation

Design Your System

Find a local Carrier expert you can trust

Carrier contractors are ready to help you create your ideal home environment

Find an Expert

Explore HVAC Systems & Products

Learn about our innovative products and how they can help improve your comfort.

Browse Products

Learn Heating & Cooling Basics

Learn how to choose and maintain your HVAC system

Explore the Basics
Products
Heating & Cooling

Air Conditioners

Furnaces

Heat Pumps

Ductless Systems

See All HVAC Products
Thermostats

Smart Thermostats
Healthy Homes

Air Purifiers

Humidifiers

Dehumidifiers

Ventilators

More Products
Infinity System

What is Infinity

Infinity Advantages

Infinity Wall Control
Innovation
Innovation for Homeowners

Comfort Innovations

Control Innovations

Energy Savings Innovations

Ductless Crossover Solution

InteliSense™ Technology

SmartSave
More Innovation for Homeowners

Puron Advance™

Zoning Innovations
Energy-Saving Technology

Learn about our energy efficient innovations that can help you save on your heating & cooling energy expenses, while ensuring your home is comfortable.

Explore Innovations
Why Carrier
Why Carrier

Awards

Customer Testimonials

History of Innovation

Designed in Indianapolis

Community Involvement

Sustainability
Our Dealers

Factory Authorized Dealers

Certified Ductless Pros

HVAC Technician Careers

Become a Carrier Dealer
Customer Care

Can't find what you're looking for? Our customer service representatives are here to help.

Contact Us
Resources
Homeowner Resources

FAQs

Financing

Glossary

Heating and Cooling Basics

HVAC Parts

Minimum Efficiency Standards
More Resources

Product Literature

Thermostat Login

SmartHome App
Savings & Warranty

Energy Savings

Federal Tax Credits

Rebates

Register My Product

Warranty

Warranty Lookup

Ultimate Guide to 4 Ton Heat Pumps

A 4 ton heat pump is a heating and cooling system designed to efficiently regulate the temperature in medium to large-sized homes, typically covering around 1,800 to 2,400 square feet. Understanding the ins and outs of a 4 ton heat pump—including how it works, what factors influence sizing, and the costs involved—can help you choose the right system to keep your home comfortable year-round. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about 4 ton heat pumps.

What Is a 4-ton Heat Pump?

A 4-ton heat pump refers to the system’s ability to heat and cool a home by moving a specific amount of heat each hour. In HVAC terms, one “ton” equals 12,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour. Therefore:

1 ton = 12,000 BTUs per hour
4 tons = 48,000 BTUs per hour

This means a 4-ton heat pump can transfer 48,000 BTUs of heat energy every hour. Because heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, a 4-ton unit is typically suited for medium to large homes, generally covering about 1,800 to 2,400 square feet. Choosing the right tonnage is crucial for maintaining energy efficiency, comfort, and dependable performance year-round.

Discovering Whether You Need A 4-ton Heat Pump

Whether a 4-ton heat pump is the right choice for your home depends on factors such as square footage, climate, and insulation quality. While using BTUs per square foot can provide a rough estimate, it’s important to treat this as a general guideline. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Moderate climates: Approximately 20 BTUs per square foot
Hot climates: Between 25 and 30 BTUs per square foot
Cold climates: Around 30 to 35 BTUs per square foot

A 4-ton heat pump (48,000 BTUs) is generally suited for homes ranging from 1,800 to 2,400 square feet. To ensure the best fit for your home, consult a local Carrier dealer for a professional load calculation.

Calculating Heat Pump Size For Your Home

Measure your home's total square footage. Calculate the area of each room by multiplying length by width, then add all room areas together to get the total square footage.
Multiply by the recommended BTUs per square foot based on your climate. Take a 2,200 sq. ft. home in a moderate climate for example:

2,200 sq. ft. × 20 BTUs = 44,000 BTUs required.
Divide by 12,000 (since 1 ton = 12,000 BTUs):
44,000 ÷ 12,000 = 3.67 tons.

This indicates that a 4-ton heat pump would likely be a suitable choice. Remember, factors like insulation quality, ceiling height, window types, and number of occupants can affect the ideal system size, so it’s best to have a professional evaluation from your local Carrier dealer to confirm if you need a 2-ton heat pump, 3-ton heat pump, 4-ton heat pump, or 5-ton heat pump.

Cost Of A 4-Ton Heat Pump

The cost of a 4-ton heat pump is determined by your local HVAC dealer who manages the heat pump installation. Pricing varies based on factors like your geographic location, the size and design of your home, climate conditions, and the model of heat pump you choose. For more detailed information, check out our dedicated heat pump pricing page or get a quote from your local Carrier dealer. Don’t forget to research rebates or federal tax credits for high-efficiency heat pumps that can potentially help reduce your overall costs.

a carrier dealer works on a 4 ton heat pump

Partner with a Carrier Dealer to Find The Right Heat Pump Size

Carrier provides heat pumps in various sizes to fit a wide range of home designs and climates. Your local Carrier dealer will guide you in selecting the ideal unit by conducting a Manual J load calculation, an industry-recognized method developed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). This thorough assessment considers factors like insulation, home size, and sun exposure to ensure your heat pump is accurately sized for optimal comfort and efficiency. Contact your local Carrier dealer today to get started.

4 Ton Heat Pump FAQs

What is a 4 ton heat pump used for?

A 4 ton heat pump is used to provide efficient heating and cooling for medium to large-sized homes or spaces.

How much should a 4 ton heat pump cost installed?

Installed costs for a 4-ton heat pump generally fall between $6,000 and $25,000, depending on the model, efficiency, and local labor rates. To get an accurate quote, work with your local Carrier dealer. Read our guide on heat pump cost.

How many square feet will a 4 ton heat pump heat?

A 4-ton heat pump can typically heat and cool homes ranging from 1,800 to 2,400 square feet, depending on insulation and climate. It’s best to work with your local Carrier dealer to determine the right sized heat pump for your home.

What is the efficiency rating of a 4 ton heat pump?

Most 4 ton heat pumps have SEER2 ratings between 14 and 21, with higher ratings indicating better energy efficiency and performance.

Explore Carrier Heat Pumps

Choosing a Carrier heat pump offers reliable performance and energy efficiency, making it an excellent long-term investment for both heating and cooling needs. With advanced technology and a strong reputation for durability, Carrier heat pumps provide optimal comfort while helping to lower heating and cooling bills. Our commitment to sustainability and quiet operation can help enhance your overall home environment. Explore Carrier's line of heat pumps today.

infinity-24-heat-pump-with-greenspeed-intelligence-27VNA3

Infinity® Variable-Speed Heat Pump With Greenspeed® Intelligence

27VNA3

Our highest efficiency and most advanced heat pump with up to 23 SEER2 for premium energy savings with extremely quiet performance and premium comfort features.

Performance™ 2-Stage Heat Pump with InteliSense™ Technology

27TPA8

Up to 18.5 SEER2 for enhanced energy savings with enhanced comfort features. Features InteliSense™ technology

Comfort™ Heat Pump

27SCA5

Up to 16 SEER2 for moderate energy savings with standard comfort features.

Learn More About Heat Pumps

Let's start with the basics - what is a heat pump?
Learn about heat pump efficiency and SEER Ratings
Find out more about heat pump service
3 Reasons To Consider A Heat Pump
Heat Pumps: A Sustainable Comfort Solution
How much will a heat pump increase my electric bill?

Let's chat