Heat pumps offer a great alternative to many HVAC systems but don’t last forever. What is the life expectancy of a heat pump? This guide uncovers how heat pumps work and when it may be time for a replacement.
The experts at Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning provide various heat pump services so you can keep yours running efficiently. Call (732) 800-9416 to speak with a technician if your heat pump begins acting up or you suspect you need a replacement.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a hybrid mechanism that cools and heats your home, providing comfort throughout the year no matter what climate you live in.
Heat pumps do not run on coal or natural gas, making them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to lower their carbon footprint. Global sales of heat pumps are on the rise thanks to their eco-friendly design. Their energy efficiency also results in lower utility bills for homeowners.
How Do Heat Pumps Work?
Dual-system heat pumps operate much like conventional air conditioners to cool your home. They feature a refrigerant that absorbs heat as soon as it flows into the unit’s evaporator coil. From there, the heat moves to an outdoor condenser unit and dissipates into the air.
During colder months, heat pumps work much differently than traditional heating systems. Their refrigeration cycle flips, so instead of transferring heat outside, the heat pump absorbs any warm air it can and brings it into your home. An air-source heat pump absorbs heat from the outside air, while ground-source heat pumps collect geothermal heat.
Benefits of Heat Pumps
Heat pumps provide a cleaner solution to heating and cooling. They don’t rely on fossil fuels, and their hybrid design is ideal for homeowners seeking a single HVAC system. Heat pumps are far more efficient than traditional furnaces and air conditioners.
People living in temperate climates where the temperature doesn’t drop below freezing can rely on a heat pump as their sole heating and cooling system. If you experience several bitter cold stretches, experts advise installing a gas furnace as a backup heating solution. However, heat pumps provide homeowners with financial relief on utility bills, even when running alongside a gas furnace as a supplemental heat source.
Heat pumps also emit less noise than traditional HVAC systems. A heat pump is a perfect solution if you’re looking to keep your home comfortable and quiet.
Signs You Need Heat Pump Replacement
The life expectancy of heat pumps is around 10 to 15 years. Thankfully, it can be easy to tell when you should replace yours. The following are common indicators that it is time to replace your heat pump:
- The unit emits strange noises
- Your energy bills suddenly increase
- You notice the air quality in your home isn’t what it used to be
- Your indoor temperatures fluctuate more than they should
Pay attention to how many years your heat pump has been in operation. As your system reaches the end of its average lifespan, it will likely experience performance issues. Call an HVAC specialist if your heat pump suddenly makes unusual noises, there’s a drop in your indoor air quality, you see an unexplained spike in your energy bill, or you experience uneven temperatures in your house.
How To Extend the Life Expectancy of Heat Pumps
Regular maintenance is key to getting the most out of your heat pump system. Proper care of your unit can help you get a full 15 years of dual heating and cooling with no issues.
Experts suggest scheduling professional inspections twice per year, ideally before the start of each heating and cooling season. This allows time to pinpoint any possible issues with your heat pump and address them before the outdoor temperatures drastically swing.
Compared to heating systems that use combustion, heat pumps require less maintenance. However, ignoring maintenance checks shortens the life expectancy of heat pumps and leads to major repairs down the road.
Learn More About Heat Pumps
Are you still curious about how a heat pump works or considering installing one in your home? The Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning experts are here to help.
Are you near the end of the life expectancy of your heat pump? Our qualified team can equip your home with a new unit. Get a free estimate for heat pump repair or replacement by filling out an online request form or by calling (732) 800-9416.