Are you comfortable in your home? We’re not talking about whether or not you feel the house fits your personality. Instead, is the temperature always comfortable regardless of the weather outside? Your heat pump has a lifespan, just like your other major appliances.
Eventually, it’s going to be time to schedule a heat pump replacement in Denver, CO. Waiting for the heat pump to finally give out isn’t the best idea. You never know what the temperature will be like outside when your heat pump dies. A better option is to know the warning signs. This way, you can replace your heat pump before you have trouble feeling comfortable in your house.
Signs Your Heat Pump May Need Replacing
Your heat pump is rarely going to suddenly stop working. Usually, the appliance gives you a warning sign or two.
Your Heat Pump’s Age
With routine maintenance, usually once or twice a year, your heat pump can age gracefully. This means it keeps working for years without needing any major repairs. However, eventually, even regular upkeep isn’t going to be enough. Old age will catch up and this means it’s time to start looking at replacements.
How long should you expect a heat pump to last? Once again, maintenance plays a key role in a heat pump’s longevity. With that being said, you should expect your heat pump to run for about 15 years. You probably don’t need to run out and buy a replacement the day your heat pump turns 15. Just pay a little more attention when it’s cycling on and off. You may also want to increase maintenance checks, especially in hot and cold weather.
Rising Energy Costs
Okay, the price of everything is going up and this includes energy costs. Yep, you’re probably noticing this on your utility bills. Even with recent rate hikes, your monthly energy bill shouldn’t have surprise increases. If you start noticing a spike in energy costs, the culprit may be your inefficient heat pump.
Heat pumps are notorious for running less efficiently as they age. Pretty much, as soon as your heat pump hits the 15-year mark it tends to work a little harder. You may be able to temporarily fix the issue. However, the keyword is temporary. Before long, your energy bills are going to start spiking. Did you know new model heat pumps are designed for energy efficiency? If you go with an Energy Star-rated model, you may even qualify for government rebates like tax credits.
The Heat Pump Is Making Weird Noises
Heat pumps aren’t exactly silent when running. With that being said, the appliance shouldn’t be loud enough to be annoying. When you start hearing a rattling, banging, or grinding noise, shut the heat pump off. You probably have a broken, loose, or malfunctioning part.
Before committing to a repair, think about the heat pump’s age. If the appliance is getting close to the end of its lifespan, replacing it may be the better option. Sometimes, the constant repairs can total more than replacement costs.
Indoor Humidity Levels Are Never Right
Your heat pump is responsible for removing humidity from your house in the summer. In the winter, it ensures there’s enough moisture in the air. Inefficient HVAC systems (read older heat pumps) tend to struggle to keep indoor humidity levels comfortable.
Not only are you dealing with too moist or dry air, but your electric bills are also going up. Since the heat pump is struggling, it will repeatedly cycle on and off. The heat pump may even keep running.
Cold and Warm Spots
Have you ever walked into a room only to wander into a cold spot? Nope, you probably didn’t ‘walk through’ a ghost. Instead, you’re dealing with a struggling heat pump. Warm and cold spots in rooms typically mean air isn’t being circulated throughout the room.
You may have a problem with clogged air vents or ducts. Often this is a relatively easy and inexpensive fix. If the problem lies with your heat pump, repairs can be pricey. You may find that repairs are more expensive than replacing the old heat pump.
Ensuring Your Comfort In Any Season
Your home is kind of like your castle. You expect your home to be comfortable but sometimes your heat pump can’t keep up. When you can’t efficiently heat and cool your home, your heat pump may be on its last legs. Talking to an HVAC specialist about your options is the best way to ensure your home’s always a comfortable place to be.
