Signs That a Heat Pump Needs to Be Replaced
Heating and cooling systems are complex mechanical/electrical systems. They work hard with repeated cycles day and night year-round to keep your home warm and cool. Conventional central furnace and air conditioning systems typically have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Heat pumps tend to have a longer life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. A few years before your heat pump needs to be replaced, you may start to see signs that it is not operating at peak efficiency. You may experience warm and cool areas within your home, or it may just take longer for it to get to the temperature you have it set for.
Repair Frequency
Initially, HVAC technicians can make repairs to get your heat pump back into good condition. Occasional repairs can be expected at any time. If your heat pump is more than 12 years old and the repair frequency begins to occur more often, you could be seeing signs that a replacement is going to be needed in the next few years. You may find that more and more worn-out parts need to be replaced. When the cost of repairs add up to half the cost of a replacement, then it is time to look seriously at replacement.
Run Cycles
Normally, your system should cycle as your thermostat tells it to turn on and off. If it is staying on longer than usual or running constantly, there is a problem. It is time to call a service technician to diagnose and repair the problem. It is possible that you have a thermostat problem, and your thermostat can be repaired or replaced. It is also possible that you have a heat pump problem that needs attention. It could be an early sign that a replacement will be needed soon.
Air Quality
Stale air and humidity are also signs of a malfunctioning heat pump. If you notice a difference in your interior air quality, your heat pump should be inspected. A heat pump that is nearing its life expectancy can cause changes in air quality.
Other Signs
Low coolant is a likely sign that there is a coolant leak that needs to be repaired. If you find that your heat pump is no longer keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer, it is probably approaching replacement time. Rising energy bills when there has not been a rate increase is a sure sign that your heat pump is becoming less energy efficient. You should seriously consider getting your heat pump replaced in order to lower your energy bills.
Are you hearing noises from your heat pump that weren’t there before—especially grinding and banging? Then, it is time to get it inspected and get a service technician’s opinion if a replacement is needed. A carbon monoxide leak is a serious potential health problem for your entire family. If your heat pump has a carbon monoxide leak, it is definitely time to make arrangements for replacement without delay.
Call Semper Fi Heating & Cooling
The professional technicians at Semper Fi Heating & Cooling have extensive experience with servicing and installing heat pumps in Mesa and the entire Phoenix metro area. They can inspect, diagnose and repair problems. They can give good advice if your heat pump has reached the point where it needs to be replaced.
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