Heat pumps are versatile HVAC equipment that can both cool or heat your interiors. Powerful and energy-efficient, modern heat pumps go a long way in controlling your home’s indoor climate. However, like any other HVAC equipment, your heat pumps have a dedicated lifespan.
At Hurliman Heating, we help our clients choose the right heat pump models. Apart from installing and servicing the equipment, we also replace, repair and maintain heat pumps. We’re your best bet for any HVAC-related issues, and we’ve put together some of the most important info to know about heat pumps and how they work.
This article will talk about the average lifespan of heat pumps as well as how you can make these appliances last longer.
The average lifespan of heat pumps: How long do they last?
As a thumb rule, you should consider the lifespan of a well-maintained heat pump to be 15 years. However, with our care and timely servicing, you can make them last up to 20 years.
The intensity and frequency of using your heat pump determine its actual lifespan. Just like your AC, you need to schedule annual maintenance services to keep your heat pumps in proper shape.
The secret to prolonging the lifespan of your heat pump is proper upkeep. We recommend servicing and inspecting these appliances twice a year. Generally, we follow up the routine schedule at the offset of the summer and fall.
When should you replace your heat pumps?
We advise our clients to replace old heat pumps to maintain energy efficiency. The older systems that you purchased more than a decade ago might malfunction frequently. Besides, newer systems come with better energy efficiency. Prioritizing the quality of indoor air and functional aspects of the heat pump, you need to get them replaced at the right time. To help you gain better clarity, we have discussed when you need to get your heat pumps replaced.
1. Poor quality of indoor air
Besides heating and cooling the interiors, modern heat pumps are devised to ensure high quality of indoor air. In case you find your indoor air excessively dusty and humid, it points to a malfunctioning heat pump. No one likes to live in an allergic environment. We highly recommend replacing old heat pumps with newer models that promise a longer lifespan.
2. High energy bills
Heat pumps tend to lose their efficiency as they grow old. So, they would consume more power as they struggle to deliver the desired indoor temperature. In the end, you must keep these appliances on for longer hours. This leads to higher energy bills, draining your finances. When you replace the heat pump with a more energy-efficient one, you can see a noticeable difference in energy consumption.
3. Frequent repairs
One of the gnawing signs of a fast-aging heat pump is frequent breakdowns. This would require you to shell out repair costs too often. In case your heat pump is already a decade old, make sure to get the system replaced. This way, you can purchase a more energy-efficient system and save unnecessary repair expenses.
4. Strange noises
Usually, heat pumps tend to be silent. Only when they end a cycle and start a new one do they produce little sound. In case you hear any other humming, squealing, or grinding noise from your heat pump, make sure to get it inspected by our professionals. There might be a broken or loose component, or the system might be faulty.
Factors affecting the lifespan of your heat pump
Before moving on to the symptoms of a malfunctioning heat pump, let’s explore the factors that directly affect their lifespan.
The age of the heat pump: Older heat pumps tend to develop technical glitches sooner than the newer models. So, if you own a ten-year-old model, it would last less than a five-year-old model. As a thumb rule, if your appliance is over a decade old and requires frequent repairs, it’s wise to replace it.
Professional installation and servicing: It’s crucial to hire a reputed HVAC company to install and service your heat pump. Poor upkeep ultimately robs the system of the lifespan it deserves. Considering the appliance to be an investment, hire professionals to maintain and service it at the scheduled intervals.
Your demographics: Do you reside somewhere that consistently witnesses subzero temperatures? Well, this might be exerting excess pressure on your heat pump. The appliance would be struggling to keep the interiors warm for most time of the year. Although the function of a heat pump is to raise the indoor temperature, they, too, have their limits. Moreover, if you live in the coastal belts, the heat pumps would remain exposed to the salty atmosphere.
The intensity of use: In case your home lacks proper insulation, your heat pump will come under unnecessary pressure. Just like any other machine, the longevity of your heat pump depends on how intensely you use it. Besides, an improper configuration can lead to frequent breakdowns. For instance, if you purchase an undersized heat pump, it would break down faster, even in normal environmental conditions. This explains why our clients consult the experts working with us before finalizing their purchases.
How can you increase your heat pump’s lifespan?
Now that you know the average lifespan of a heat pump, here are some tips to extend the durability of these appliances.
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Make sure to follow up with the HVAC experts for timely upkeep.
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Don’t allow ice to accumulate on the outdoor coil. Frost formation can interfere with its ability to produce heat. Thus, the defrost cycle of your heat pump should function properly.
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Keep the fins and coils of the heat pump regularly.
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Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations and get the air filters replaced from time to time.
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Remove vegetation growth at least 2 feet away from the outdoor unit.
Contact us today for your heat pump installation
At Hurliman Heating, we remain committed to serving our clients, offering the best specimen of services in the HVAC industry. Whether you want to install a new heat pump or service your existing system, reach out to us today for the best service in town.
