How Long Do Heat Pumps Last? | The Heat Pump People

Heat pumps are one of the best heating and cooling systems available due to their effectiveness, energy efficiency and long lifespan. Good quality heat pumps manufactured, installed and maintained by experts should have a reasonable lifespan.

However, a number of factors can affect the lifespan. Depending on where you live, how you use your heat pump and how well maintained it is, your heat pump may have a longer or shorter lifespan.

Proper usage along with regular inspection and maintenance is essential for ensuring your system operates normally for as long as possible. All systems need to be well maintained from approximately 1-2 years onwards, depending on their usage. Important maintenance and care include:

● Ensuring coils are kept clean
● Cleaning the fins on the outside condenser unit
● Ensuring plants do not grow within 18 inches of the outdoor unit
● Cleaning or replacing air filters regularly according to manufacturer recommendations

Environmental factors can also cause premature failure. For example, ice can build up on the outdoor coil and impede the heat pump’s ability to generate heat. You need a heat pump with a good defrost cycle that can operate in Canterbury’s specific temperatures to prevent this. A reputable provider will take the surrounding environment into account and tailor an appropriate solution.

Even a well-maintained system will eventually begin to fail. Sometimes it can be repaired or have a part replaced and continue functioning well for a few more years. Other times, it may be better to replace the unit. Common signs that a heat pump needs major repairs or replacing include:

● Diminished air flow (despite regular maintenance)
● Blowing air that is inconsistent to temperature settings
● The unit switches itself off randomly
● The unit has difficulty getting started
● Dramatic increase in energy bills
● Strange smells or sounds such as screeching, grinding, rattling, buzzing or ticking

If your heat pump requires frequent repairs and is out of warranty, continuing to repair it may be most trouble and cost than it’s worth. If your system is over 8-10 years old, you may be much better off getting a newer model which will work better as well as being more energy efficient and will come with a new warranty period.

At The Heat Pump People, we install residential air conditioning systems to suit all properties throughout Christchurch, as well as providing heat pump repair and maintenance services. We are passionate about providing the finest quality heating and cooling systems to our clients. Please speak to our team about our heat pumps and air conditionersand how we can help you.

Get in touch with our friendly team today by calling 03 974 0752 or contact us online.