Heat pumps are arguably one of the most reliable and efficient heating and cooling appliances. These systems ensure that your living space is cool during the summer and warm during the cold months. But like any other appliance, a heat pump also wears out over time. Although professional maintenance helps to extend its lifespan, you’ll eventually need to replace it. Knowing the right time to install a new system will save you a lot of frustration, money, and time. Here are eight tell-tale signs that you need to replace your heat pump.
1. Significant Increase in Energy Bills
Heat pumps are popular in many households for their high efficiency levels. Even when it’s extremely cold or hot, you can still expect to save some money on your utility bills while using a heat pump. But as you keep running your system consistently for several years, the efficiency levels may start to drop. This will most likely result in a dramatic increase in power bills. Therefore, if you’ve noticed a sudden surge in energy bills and all other electrical appliances in your house are in good condition, your heat pump might be the culprit. Consider calling an experienced professional to assess the unit to determine the cause of the increase in power bills. In most cases, a replacement will help lower your utility bills, especially if you have an old system.
2. Heat Pump Short Cycles
Heat pumps work by cycling on for approximately 15-20 minutes, switching off for around 30 minutes, and then repeating the process until the building is at the temperature you set. However, if your system runs constantly or ends its cycles before that 15-to-20-minute mark, your system has a problem. Note that if the issue isn’t handled quickly, the appliance may fail due to extra stress. Sometimes, the heat pump may be too small for your needs, forcing it to run constantly. If your system isn’t correctly sized, a replacement will help save on unexpected repairs and save money on energy bills.
3. Unit is More Than 10 Years
Heat pumps last for about 10 – 15 years. Although a heat pump that is about ten years may still be fully functional, it’s likely less efficient. Also, since this system works throughout the year, its parts may wear out faster compared to other types of HVAC systems, like furnaces. Newer heat pumps are often more energy-efficient than older models, which will help with heating and cooling as well as your utility bills. Plus, you shouldn’t need to repair your heat pump soon after replacing it, which brings us to our next point.
4. Constant Repairs
Typically, you’ll need to schedule heat pump maintenance once or twice a year; your heat pump needs servicing before the start of the cold season and before the hot months. But if your system needs multiple repairs each year or it breaks down often, you may have to consider replacing it. Repairing it is usually the better choice earlier in the pump’s lifespan, but if you find your repair costs adding up quickly, it might be time. As a general rule, if the repair adds up to half the price of a new pump or if repeated repairs get you to that point, purchasing an entirely new heat pump would be a good idea.
5. Unusual Noises or Smells
When your heat pump is in good working condition, it should operate smoothly with almost no noise. You should only hear minimal sounds when the system begins or ends a cycle. If you hear other unusual noises, such as loud banging, squealing, or grinding noise, it signifies a severe problem that may need a replacement. Also, if your heat pump starts to give off an unusual smell, it needs immediate attention. Bad odors may mean that the duct system has become moldy or the heat pump’s insulation has become damaged. In the case there is mold, mildew, or dust in your system, it can circulate the contaminants in your space and become a health hazard. Sometimes, a filter replacement may help eliminate the bad odor. But if you still notice the unusual smell, you likely need to replace the entire system.
6. Excess Moisture or Leaks
Naturally, heat pumps let out a bit of moisture or condensation on the outside of the exterior unit. But when there is extensive condensation, it’s a sign that your system is probably malfunctioning. When the leaks find their way into your home, they can lead to structural damage. For safety reasons, always seek professional assistance immediately when you notice excessive moisture because a combination of water and electrical components poses significant risks. Replacing your heat pump is the most cost-effective solution for dealing with this issue.
7. Unit Can’t Keep Your Home Comfortable
After a few years of using your heat pump, you may notice an uneven distribution of conditioned air in your rooms. One room may be warmer or cooler than the other. In some cases, your system may even produce warm air when it’s set to cool. Sometimes, this problem may result from a dirty filter or lack of maintenance. But if you recently scheduled maintenance with a professional and your heat pump still experiences this problem, then you need an upgrade.
8. Poor Indoor Air Quality
Your heat pump has a significant impact on indoor air quality. Therefore, if your space constantly seems too stale or humid or you and other house occupants often sneeze, there isn’t proper air circulation. Bad air quality is especially hard on individuals suffering from allergies, asthma, and other breathing issues. If you have an older system that compromises indoor air quality, you should consider replacing it.
Schedule Heat Pump Replacement with the Experts
Heat pumps can serve you for years, especially when you schedule regular maintenance with a professional. But as you continue using your system, there comes a time when you’ll need to replace it. If you notice any of the above signs from a sudden increase in energy bills, uneven heating and cooling, excess leaks, or your heat pump is more than ten years, it’s time for an upgrade. When you invest in a new system, you’ll no longer have to worry about a sudden breakdown or an uncomfortable home, no matter the season.
Whenever you need an experienced team to replace your heat pump, Billfish Air Conditioning, LLC is a call away. Our HVAC company is locally owned and operated and has a fully trained team that works hard to provide the best services to every customer. Owing to our exceptional services, we have received excellent reviews over the years. Better yet, we are an A+-rated and BBB-accredited company. When you call us to install your new heat pump, we show up on time with vans fully stocked with all the necessary tools and equipment to complete the task successfully. Our team also tests the new equipment to ensure it’s effective and efficient. We offer a wide range of services, including ductwork cleaning, furnace and AC repair, maintenance, and installation in Stuart.
Call Billfish Air Conditioning, LLC today to schedule service with our team.
