Your heat pump has been keeping your home cool during Georgia’s sweltering summers and warm during some surprisingly chilly winters. Though lately, you’ve noticed it has been struggling to keep a consistent temperature, or maybe you’ve seen your energy bills rising. At Ricky Heath, we’ve helped many homeowners decide if replacing their heat pump is the best call. After years of servicing heat pumps throughout the Macon area, we know the signs that indicate when repair just isn't cutting it anymore. Let's walk through everything you need to know about heat pump replacement.
How Long Does a Heat Pump Last?
A well-maintained heat pump should work for 10-15 years, but we’ve seen some models push beyond the 15-year mark. Considering your heat pump is doing double duty throughout the year, unlike a furnace, which works half of the year, heat pumps are one of the most cost-effective and energy-efficient forms of heating and cooling.
Still, when your old heat pump reaches the 10-year mark, it’s a good idea to keep tabs on your aging HVAC to make sure it is still running properly. The best way to do this is to know the factors that shorten your heat pump's service life.
Factors That Shorten Heat Pump Lifespan
Several factors shorten a heat pump’s lifespan, including:
- Incorrect installation: If you went with an installer who cut corners when it comes to ductwork connections, proper sizing, or refrigerant charging, your heat pump will never reach its full potential.
- Frequent on-and-off cycling: This is usually due to incorrect sizing and puts extra wear on the compressor and other key mechanical components.
- Skipping regular maintenance: Just like oil changes in your car, a heat pump needs annual tune-ups that include filter changes, component inspections, and coil cleaning.
- Humidity is causing drainage issues: Georgia’s humidity, which brings an excess of moisture, can be brutal for heat pumps, and if drainage isn’t handled properly, it will degrade your unit’s service life.
Signs Your Heat Pump Is Failing
Now that you know the factors that affect your heat pump’s lifespan, it’s beneficial to know the signs that it is failing and may need a heating pump replacement service.
- Rising energy bills: When your system starts losing its efficiency, it has to run longer to achieve the same comfort level, and that shows up on your power bill.
- Inconsistent temperatures: If you're constantly adjusting the thermostat without getting comfortable, your heat pump is likely struggling to distribute conditioned air effectively.
- Strange noises: Any grinding, clanking, hissing, or banging is a direct sign that your heat pump needs to be serviced or replaced.
- Leaking water: If your heat pump is leaking water, chances are it isn’t running efficiently.
- Short cycling: Your heat pump needs servicing if it turns off and on without completing a full heating or cooling cycle.
- Multiple repairs: If you have to schedule your heat pump for repairs more than once or twice a year, it’s time for a replacement.
The decision to replace usually comes down to a combination of age, repair costs, and efficiency. Ricky Heath’s general rule of thumb is the 50% rule. If a major repair costs more than half the price of a new system, and your heat pump is over 10 years old, replacement makes the most sense for your sanity and wallet. Check out these tips if your heat pump isn't running properly.
When to Consider Replacing a Heat Pump
Major component failures, like compressor or heat exchanger issues on older units, usually require a replacement. These repairs can cost several thousand dollars, and even after fixing them, you're still dealing with an aging system that may have other problems that pop up.
Luckily, Georgia Power offers rebates for more efficient heat pump upgrades. With the help of Ricky Heath, residents can also access state-run and federal incentives, including the Georgia Home Energy Rebate Program for income-qualified households and federal tax credits for energy-efficient heat pumps.
These incentives significantly reduce your upfront costs, making heat pump replacement more affordable than you might expect. We stay current on all available rebate programs and can help you navigate the application process to maximize your savings. A new heat pump replacement can range from $4000 - $8000, but these rebate programs can sometimes save you up to $2000.
We always provide detailed estimates that break down equipment and labor costs so you know exactly what you're paying for. While this might seem like a huge investment, consider that a new heat pump will serve your family for 15+ years while providing better comfort and lower energy bills throughout its lifespan.
Another sign to replace your heat pump is if you notice it uses R-22 refrigerant, which is now banned in the United States due to environmental concerns. Since it’s phased out, parts and repairs for a heat pump using it are becoming increasingly expensive. Newer models use updated refrigerant that are more environmentally friendly.
Benefits of a Professional Heating Pump Replacement Service
Proper installation makes all the difference with your new heat pump's performance and lifespan. Our experienced technicians handle the technical details like proper refrigerant charging, electrical connections, and ductwork modifications. Professional installation is usually required to validate the manufacturer’s warranty.
Choosing the Right Replacement Heat Pump
Choosing the right heat pump involves more than just picking the cheapest option. Size, configuration, and efficiency rating play a big role in finding the right replacement heat pump.
Ricky Heath will determine sizing with something called a load calculation, based on your home's square footage, insulation, windows, and other factors. Ductwork layout and condition, as well as room configuration, will impact the size and type of heat pump replacement needed for your space.
Look into a unit’s SEER rating for cooling efficiency and HSPF ratings for heating performance. More efficient models may carry a higher upfront cost, but they'll save money on utility bills for years to come.
Consider features like variable-speed operation and smart thermostat compatibility. These technologies provide better comfort control and additional energy savings. Two-stage or variable-speed heat pumps run more consistently and quietly than single-stage units. Again, these are all aspects Ricky Heath is a pro at explaining while helping you decide.
Call Ricky Heath for all Heat Pump Servicing
Deciding when to replace your heat pump doesn't have to be an overwhelming experience and Ricky Heath will be with you every step of the way. We are happy to serve customers in the Macon area as well as Bonaire, Perry, and Warner-Robins. Don't let an aging heat pump conflict with your comfortable lifestyle or drain your wallet. Contact us today for a consultation.
