The heat pump is an integral part of your home’s heating and cooling system. Similar to a central heating and cooling system, heat pumps can cool your home as well as provide heating. In the cooler months, heat pumps pull heat from the cold outdoor air and transfer it indoors. In the warmer months, they remove heat from the indoor air.
So what makes heat pump installation a good idea? Heat pumps transfer heat into your home rather than generating it, making them a more energy-efficient option, which could save you money on your monthly energy bill. Additionally, heat pumps tend to provide a more consistent temperature than furnaces or air conditioners, creating a more comfortable temperature in your home.
Understanding the Lifespan of a Heat Pump
Heat pumps have different life expectancies depending on several factors, including the type and location of the unit, as well as how well the unit is maintained. Typically, the average heat pump lasts between 13-18 years. However, the more modern units on the market today tend to last longer than older models.
Regular maintenance should be performed twice a year on your heat pump at the beginning of the heating and cooling seasons, respectively.
Signs That Your Heat Pump Needs Repair
It is likely that a pump will need to be replaced well before it reaches its expected lifespan, especially if it hasn’t been maintained frequently.
Here are some warning signs that your heat pump needs to be repaired or replaced.
Constant Operation
Clean, fresh air is essential to the efficient operation of your heat pump. Clogged air filters make your heat pump work harder to keep your home comfortable. This could cause your heat pump to run constantly and need repairs more often.
Uncomfortable Home Temperature
Is cold air coming from your heat pump when you are trying to heat your house? You might have a problem with the electronic control board assembly of your heat pump. If you’re unsure, reach out for professional help to diagnose and assist.
Increased Energy Bills
It may be time to take a closer look at your heat pump if you suddenly see a skyrocketing energy bill despite not changing your usage. In some cases, a simple air filter replacement can improve airflow and energy efficiency and solve a sudden rise in energy usage. In other cases, a professional HVAC technician might be required.
Frequent Repairs
A frequent need for repairs could indicate that your heat pump has reached the end of its life cycle and needs to be replaced. If this is the case, contact Central Air to restore your heat pump.
Poor Airflow
Having a dirty filter could mean your blower motor is causing reduced airflow. As dust builds up within the heat pump or from years of regular use, the blower motor can malfunction. It is best to contact a technician for a professional inspection if the blower motor is not running properly.
Strange Noises
A loud noise may indicate a problem with your heat pump, but it doesn’t necessarily warrant replacement. Most noise can be eliminated by tightening the fan blades, leveling the heat pump, and securing all screws.
Odd Smells
Any rot smell in your system could indicate an animal has died. Mold can cause your unit to smell musty. In addition, a burning smell could indicate a problem with the wiring or electrical system. Consult a professional if you discover any strange smells coming from your heat pump.
Won’t Turn On
Having trouble turning on your heat pump could be a sign of a malfunctioning thermostat or tripped circuit breaker. Ensure your thermostat is set to the proper temperature and that all breakers are switched on. If this doesn’t change, give us a call.
Short-cycling
You may notice that your heat pump is cycling on and off more frequently than it should. This is known as short cycling. Until the unit is repaired, you will experience poor efficiency. In addition, the equipment will wear out much sooner than it should, which means you’ll need to replace it sooner rather than later.
Stuck in One Mode
When a heat pump is stuck in one mode (either heating or cooling), it could indicate that there is a problem with the reversing valve, which is responsible for switching the heat pump from one mode to the other.
Poor Air Quality
Having a decrease in the air quality in your home could be an indication of the fact that your heat pump is not filtering and circulating the air as effectively as it should be.
There are many signs that indicate a problem with your heat pump. Homeowners should take notice of anything out of the ordinary. Heat pumps are one of the most versatile appliances on the market today with a wide range of benefits.. However, similar to other electrical appliances, heat pumps do malfunction, and you’ll need to call a Portland heat pump expert in to diagnose the issue.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should contact Central Air’s professional technicians to determine the cause. Our team of expert technicians will have your heat pump working at peak performance again in no time!
When to Consider Replacement Over Repair
Listed below are some serious problems that should alert you that it’s time to replace your heat pump rather than constantly repairing it.
Presents a safety risk
You can expose your family to poisonous gases if your heat pump leaks. As soon as the carbon monoxide level rises, those in your home need to leave immediately. This situation absolutely calls for a replacement.
Malfunctioning during a cold front
In areas with extremely cold weather, the threat is slightly less than a CO leak but still present. In the event of a storm or cold front, a broken heat pump could lead to burst pipes or even have you leaving your home until the issue can be repaired. In this case, it’s time to replace your device.
Nearing the end of its lifespan
If your heat pump is an older model, you should consider replacing it to save both money and energy. Over time, the internal components wear down in ways that cannot be permanently fixed. You could extend the life of your device by a few months or even an entire year by servicing it, but you’ll eventually need to replace it.
Recognize the Signs of Heat Pump Failure and Get Help Today
Heat pumps benefit greatly from regular maintenance. This can prevent unexpected breakdowns and give you peace of mind. Our team of professionals can assist you with the installation of a new heating and cooling system. As a Portland heat pump installer, we provide our clients with a quality and stress-free experience.
Count on Central Air Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for reliable heat pump installation in Portland. Since 2001, we have consistently provided exceptional results as a locally owned and operated company. Contact Central Air Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today to learn how we can optimize the performance of your heat pump.