Are you worried your heat pump is nearing the end of its life? BVS Home Experts can install a new one when you call (281) 391-1510.
Heat pumps are an incredible way to both heat and cool your home, but are you wondering about heat pump life expectancy? As the trusted experts for heat pump installation in Texas, BVS Home Experts can tell you everything you need to know about heat pumps. Keep reading to discover how long they last, the benefits of having them, and how to extend their life expectancy.
What Is a Heat Pump and How Long Do They Last?
A heat pump is an effective way to receive both healing and cooling from a single device, rather than the furnace and air conditioner required of split HVAC systems. They differ from a traditional HVAC system because, instead of actively heating or cooling the air, they redistribute it, bringing the warm air from outside into the home or vice versa. Because of this, they’re most popular in the south, where the temperature stays relatively warm year-round.
Because they work year-round, they usually have a shorter life span than air conditioners and furnaces. A heat pump has an average life expectancy between 10 and 15 years, depending on a variety of factors.
Factors That Affect Heat Pump Life Expectancy
The following factors most commonly determine how long a heat pump lasts:
- Manufacturing date: With technological advancements, modern heat pumps last longer and run more efficiently than older models. Whereas an older heat pump might only last 10 years, no matter how well you care for it, newer models can more easily reach the 15-year mark.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is the number-one determiner of how long your heat pump lasts. Without annual maintenance, your heat pump will break more frequently, run harder, and might not even make it 10 years before it requires replacing.
- Location: Heat pumps don’t last as long in climates where the temperature regularly drops below freezing. Areas with a heavy concentration of salt in the air, such as coastal locations, also more quickly wear out the heat pump.
- Frequency of use: The more you use your heat pump, the faster it wears out, and the more quickly it requires replacement.
The Benefits of Owning a Heat Pump
Though they have comparatively low life expectancy, heat pumps remain a popular option because of their benefits.
Efficiency
In locations that can support them, heat pump systems are among the most efficient HVAC solutions available. As opposed to furnaces that use natural gas, heat pumps use electricity, which makes them a more efficient method of heating. They also run nearly constantly when it’s cold, but at a low level, allowing them to use overall less electricity than most air conditioners. This increased efficiency leads to lower utility bills and saves you money over time.
Effectiveness
It’s a myth that because heat pumps perform two functions, they do both half as well as their counterparts. When you install the correct size for your home, a heat pump performs just as adequately or better than a system with both an air conditioner and a furnace.
Noise Levels
When compared to an air conditioner, heat pumps run with significantly less noise, thus providing little disturbance to sleep, watching TV, or other relaxing activities.
Tips for Extending Your Heat Pump's Life Expectancy
If you want to extend your heat pump’s life expectancy, you can follow these best practices.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Annual checkups are the most important part of maintaining your heat pump. To ensure heavy usage doesn’t damage your device, schedule maintenance services every spring. Many homeowners find scheduling a second maintenance appointment in the fall helpful, both to determine if summer usage damaged the device and to prepare it for winter heating.
Moderate Your Usage
Because a heat pump runs so efficiently, you might find it tempting to let it run constantly during the warm weather. However, just like an air conditioner, running your heat pump too frequently can increase its wear and tear and force more frequent repairs. In the summer, set your thermostat to 78 degrees, and don’t run it when you’re not home.
Install the Right Size
Much like air conditioners, heat pumps come in various sizes and powers. Whether it’s too large or too small, installing the wrong-sized heat pump damages the device and increases your utility bills.
Clean Your Device
Because the heat pump rests outside, it’s vulnerable to accumulating dust, leaves, and other debris. Regularly check the heat pump for buildup and clean it as necessary. Also, ensure you’re checking and replacing your air filter at least every 30 days.
Signs You Need a New Heat Pump
How can you tell your heat pump needs replacement? Look for these most common signs:
- Old age: If your heat pump is at least 15 years old, you’ll probably save more by replacing it.
- Constant repairs: Do you find yourself spending money on repairs more often? No matter how well you’ve maintained your heat pump, as it ages, it requires more frequent and expensive repairs.
- Poor air quality: If your heat pump is producing lukewarm air or doesn’t perform as well as normal, it might be time for a newer model. You also might notice inconsistent temperatures throughout your home. Finally, if you’re experiencing worsening allergies or respiratory issues, an older heat pump might be the cause.
- Increased energy bills: If you notice your utility bills skyrocketing disproportionately to how often you’re using your heat pump, it likely means your device is working harder than normal. Installing a newer model can return your energy bills to normal.
Contact BVS Home Experts With All Your HVAC Questions
Now that you know the basics of heat pump life expectancy, you can replace your heat pump before repairs become too expensive. BVS Home Experts can provide professional heat pump installation in old houses, commercial properties, and more. We’ll keep you comfortable all year round.
We can help you extend the life expectancy of your heat pump. To schedule annual maintenance, call us at (281) 391-1510.
