Heat pumps are responsible for heating and cooling the home year-round. Over time, they might start to perform inefficiently, and it can be challenging to determine if it requires repairs or needs a heat pump replacement. Here are five signs that indicate you should contact your HVAC contractor about installing a new unit.

When Do You Need a New Heat Pump?

1. Frequent Repairs Are Needed

If you’re scheduling heat pump repairs frequently, it’s a sign that the system is not capable of performing optimally. Those costs will accumulate and may eventually surpass the price of a heat pump replacement. It’s worth investing in a more efficient unit to keep expenses lower.

2. Energy Bills Suddenly Spike

Your energy bills may increase if the heat pump needs to work harder than usual to maintain your desired temperature. Whether it’s due to a part failure or an aging system, it may not be cycling as designed. The more the unit runs, the more energy it uses and the utility bill will reflect the increased usage.

3. Rooms Feel Less Comfortable

When the unit needs to work harder to heat or cool the home, it may not regulate the interior temperature adequately. As a result, some rooms might feel too warm during summer and too cold in the winter. If your comfort is at stake, it’s essential to have an HVAC repair professional inspect the Heat Pump as soon as possible.

4. Unit Reaches Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy of a heat pump is approximately ten years. A few more years can be added with regularly scheduled maintenance. But at some point in time, it will eventually fail.  Older units are not as energy efficient as they are now.  New technology is used to design heating and cooling equipment with optimal efficiency in mind. 

5. Strange Noises from the System

When operating properly, heat pumps make minimal noise when they cycle on and off, and you shouldn’t hear anything more than that. If it produces sudden squealing, grinding, or whining noises, it could be a sign of a worn component or a damaged motor.  An unusual noise is never good and should be checked immediately.  Based on the age of the unit, repairs may not be the best option in the long run.

If you are concerned about the condition of your heat pump, have the HVAC technicians at ABLE Heat & Cool in Troy, MO, perform a thorough inspection. This family-owned and -operated company offers heat pump replacements and repairs. They also perform general HVAC maintenance and can provide suggestions to improve your indoor air quality. Visit the company online to learn more about their services, or call (636) 528-4794 today to schedule an appointment.