Despite their longevity and overall durability, even heat pumps have a limited lifespan. Whether you have a shiny new, freshly installed system or one that’s long in the tooth, problems can arise just the same. How can you tell if you need to replace a heat pump or if it just needs some repairs?
Signs You Need a Heat Pump Replacement
If you’re unsure whether your heat pump is truly finished or not, don’t hesitate to call a professional. However, if your heat pump has the following issues, it’s probably time.
The Heat Pump Is 15+ Years Old
Even with excellent maintenance and care, heat pumps generally don’t last more than 15 years. An old system is going to be much more prone to failure than a new one.
While replacing heat pumps that are still seemingly in running condition can feel wasteful, replacing an old system will prevent you from experiencing a breakdown that leaves you without AC or heat.
It Needs Constant Repairs
Your heat pump should be able to go more than a year without needing repairs. If you’re suddenly making repairs every three months, that’s a sign the system is failing. You’ll probably notice it’s much less efficient than it used to be, and efficiency is a hallmark of such systems.
At this point, the cost to continue repairing the heat pump could be the same as purchasing a new system.
It Can’t Regulate Humidity
When the inside of your home feels humid and muggy, it’s because your heat pump can’t remove the excess moisture anymore. Even if it can still regulate the temperature, it will struggle to lower humidity.
It Makes Strange Sounds
Heat pumps emit very little noise, so typically, you’ll only hear a gentle hum. Once you hear buzzes, rattles, or banging sounds, it’s likely parts are failing. There could be something loose that just requires re-tightening, but more often than not, odd noises indicate that the system is in need of replacement.
It Can’t Create Consistent Temperatures
If one room of the house is warm and another is cold, your heat pump is struggling to keep up with the square footage. When this happens to a new system, it could mean the heat pump is too small for the home. However, if your heat pump has been regulating temperature with no issues until recently, that’s a sign that it could fail soon.
Extending Your Heat Pump’s Lifespan
To give your heat pump the best chance for a long life, here are some simple maintenance tips:
- Change or clean the filter every 2-3 months
- Use a smart thermostat
- Clear space around vents
You can also improve airflow by clearing away limbs and leaves from the outdoor unit.
Stay Comfortable With a New Heat Pump From Endless Energy
Don’t let an old, failing heat pump take away your indoor comfort. Get a new, seamlessly installed heat pump from Endless Energy! Your temperatures will be more consistent, your humidity will be well-regulated, your power bills will go down, and you can expect quiet, gentle temperature control. Contact Endless Energy today!
