Heat pumps, like every HVAC system, have a limited lifespan. You can expect to replace your heat pump after about 10 to 15 years. However, there are many factors that go into how long your individual heat pump actually lasts.
Keep reading to learn more about heat pump lifespan and how you can care for your unit to help it last longer. Then give our team a call when you need heat pump repair in Staten Island, NY.
Heat Pump Lifespan
The industry average for heat pump lifespan is somewhere between 10 and 15 years. The manufacturer’s warranty typically lasts for that first 10-year period, with 15 years being the maximum that you want to leave your heat pump in place before you begin thinking about a replacement.
Factors Affecting Heat Pump Lifespan
There are things that you can do as a homeowner that either help your heat pump to last longer or hurt by shortening its lifespan. First, let’s talk about the ways that you may inadvertently add more strain to your heat pump so that it has a shorter lifespan.
The way you set the thermostat attached to your heat pump can affect how well it operates. Experts recommend that you set your thermostat to at least 78°F for cooling in the summer. Each degree lower than 78°F adds a more strain to your heat pump is it tries to cool down your home.
During the winter season, the recommendation is setting the thermostat no higher than 68°F. In the winter, setting your thermostat higher means that your heat pump is working harder to transfer heat into your home. It’s OK for your thermostat to be a degree or two off from these recommendations, but any more than that can have a lasting negative impact.
You also have to think about whether or not you are prioritizing regular professional maintenance for your heat pump. Ideally, you want to schedule maintenance twice each year. This is because your heat pump operates all year round as both an air conditioner and a heater, so it needs more care compared to standalone air conditioners or heaters.
Care Tips
As a homeowner, there are some steps that you can take to care for your heat pump on a regular basis. One of the most important steps is choosing an appropriate air filter, and then changing that air filter out on time. If an air filter gets too clogged with dust and dirt, it can block air leading into your heat pump, working harder against the lack of airflow entering the system.
It’s also important to rinse the condensate drain line out with vinegar every month. This helps to flush away dust buildup and destroy mold spores that may be developing in the line. It’s also a good idea to look at the outdoor portion of the unit regularly for any signs of problems or damage.
Leaves and sticks can get stuck in the delicate fins and dirt buildup can block airflow. It’s a good idea to clean off the outdoor unit with gentle water pressure once a month, especially if it has not rained recently.
Contact Scaran today to schedule an appointment with our professionals for your ductless heating and cooling solution.
