When Should I Repair or Replace My Heat Pump?

If you’ve always used your heat pump over the years, then you’ve probably wondered when your unit needs replacing. Even if you’ve maintained it over the years along with the occasional HVAC repair job, you might be thinking that maybe replacing your unit would be better than having to spend for repairs from time to time. It makes sense if your unit is too old, but just to make sure, you need to consider these things first.

How Old Is Your Unit? According to ENERGY STAR®, it’s recommended that an HVAC unit should be replaced once it’s more than 10 years old. It’s been said that a unit can last around 20 years, but then its efficiency degrades over time, and it may cost more to maintain it than having it replaced. With the newer HVAC units having two-stage compressors, more efficient coil designs, and variable-speed handlers, you’ll likely save more in the long term if you have it replaced instead. How Often Is It Maintained? If your heat pump somehow breaks down, it’s still okay to have it repaired so long as it’s under nine years old. But if your unit is over 10 years old and is still working fine, a component will likely break down sooner or later. Spending to repair that part may save you a little money, but in the long run it may cost you more. There’s still a high chance that another expensive part will break down sometime later. Would you still spend for another heating repair by then?  Is It Consuming Much Energy? With a heat pump that’s regularly maintained, it can perform as much as 25 percent better than a neglected one. That means it should perform efficiently even when used in mild climates. However, if you’ve had your heat pump recently serviced and it doesn’t make your utility bills any lower when it should, then you should consider having it replaced. Whether or not it’s still within warranty, you’ll benefit more on your energy savings if you have a heat pump that’s running efficiently.  At Schmitt, we are your leading specialist offering AC repair and replacement services. Give us a call at (415) 522-0966 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation and request a free estimate today. We serve homeowners in San Francisco and surrounding CA areas.