If you own a heat pump, you’re well aware of its many benefits. A heat pump is your home’s workhorse, pulling double duty to both heat and cool your home in ways that are highly energy efficient. Unfortunately, just like other heating and cooling systems, your heat pump won’t last forever. What are the signs you may need heat pump replacement instead of heat pump maintenance in your Winder, GA home? Here are some to keep in mind.
Heat Pump Age
How old is your heat pump? The average lifespan for a heat pump is between 10-15 years. But keep in mind that this estimate is for systems that have been properly maintained and repaired. For a heat pump, maintenance is recommended twice a year as opposed to once a year for other systems. You should also know that 85% of your repairs will occur during the last 2-3 years of the heat pump’s lifespan.
Number of Repairs
If your heat pump has needed numerous or expensive repairs to keep it operating, it’s time to consider replacing your heat pump. Especially if your heat pump is close to or past its estimated lifespan. Look at it this way: why keep paying to have a heat pump repaired when you could use that money towards a replacement?
Poor Performance
One of the outstanding benefits of a heat pump system is its energy efficiency. As such, if you have noticed a steady decline in your heat pump’s energy efficiency over the last year or so, in addition to an inability to reach your set temperature and uneven cooling, you may be paying for excess energy that a new system wouldn’t be using.
High Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed that your energy bills have been going up with no correlation in usage, this could indicate that your heat pump isn’t working as efficiently as it should be. If you have the system repaired and that doesn’t take care of the problem, this could mean it’s due for replacement.
Blowing Cool Air Instead of Hot Air
If your heat is stuck in cooling mode during the winter, then you’ve definitely got a problem. This could be caused by a faulty reversing valve that is stuck or broken and needs to be replaced. It could also indicate a low refrigerant charge in the system or a poorly calibrated thermostat. This is definitely something that’ll need to be checked out by a professional.
Unusual Noises
The only sound your heat pump should make is the sound of air quietly being blown into your home. If your heat pump has been making a commotion, strange noises don’t necessarily mean that your heat pump is sounding its last dying breath. But noises such as rattling, squealing, and grinding are all cause for concern. You should schedule an appointment with a professional to come and take a listen and determine what’s wrong.
