Your heat pump is one of those things you don’t think about until it stops working. In fact, most people don’t know much about it other than it’s part of the heating and air conditioning system. Actually, it’s what’s responsible for the heating and cooling of the air coming into your house, so it deserves a little attention. Mill Creek Heating has been operating in the Marion, OR, area for over 10 years, and they can help their clients with everything from small repairs to emergency heating and air conditioning services.

Before you find yourself calling the pros in the middle of a blizzard, here are some warning signs your heat pump could be on its way out:

• Repair Frequency: If you notice an uptick in the number of times your heat and air units are on the fritz, the heat pump could be the culprit. Any appliance will require a small amount of repairs over the years, but if you find yourself calling for service more and more often, it may be time for a replacement.

• Noise: Like any piece of machinery, an unusual sound or increase in noise level often indicates a problem. If the unit is working harder than normal, it could be because the heat pump is dying. In this case, calling a professional is a good idea.

• Decreased Performance: Pay attention to your home’s energy output. Is the house colder than it normally is, even though the heat is at the same temperature? Are some areas of the house colder than usual? If your energy bills are increasing without a noticeable difference in the temperature level, the heat pump could be working harder than normal.

• Age: Every appliance has a life expectancy before performance starts to become an issue. Heat pumps can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. The amount of use, care, and other external variables will impact the life of a heat pump. If yours is anywhere within this timeframe, it’s advisable to seek the opinion of a pro.

Whether you’re looking for heating and air conditioning unit repairs or are building a new home and want the efficiency of geothermal energy, call Mill Creek Heating at (503) 749-1000 or visit them online. Backed by their commitment to customer service and a can-do attitude, they’ll ensure you get an affordable, quality outcome.