Signs You Need a New Air-Source Heat Pump

Air-source heat pump installations are becoming more common, especially in milder climates like Los Angeles.  These systems are designed to be energy efficient while providing heating and cooling for your home, but they don’t last forever. However, heat pumps aren’t indestructible, so how do you know when to replace them?

From defects to wear and tear, we’ve seen all the different reasons why it may be best to replace an air-source heat pump. At Monkey Wrench, our technicians receive specialized training from the top brand names in the heating and cooling industry so we can better identify common issues and solutions with heat pump systems.

We’ve identified the top 5 signs that you need a new air-source heat pump so you can be prepared for unexpected problems. If you start experiencing issues with your heat pump, this article can be decisive in helping you decide when it’s time to replace it.

Let’s jump right in!

How Do I Know if My Heat Pump Needs Replacing?

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to replace your heat pump, noticing any of the following five signs is a good starting point. In no particular order, the top factors for deciding if you need a heat pump replacement are.

• Age of your heat pump
• Recurring repairs
• Increased energy bills
• Strange noises
• Inconsistent heating and cooling

Let’s kick things off by learning how your heat pump’s age plays a role.

1. Age 

Air-source heat pumps will experience wear and tear as they age and eventually need to be replaced. These systems can last 10 to 15 years with annual upkeep. But even then, they will experience operational failure since parts can become worn out from years of use. 

It’s recommended that you replace your heat pump after 10 years of use, according to Energy Star. Older heat pumps are more likely to experience common issues such as lack of hot air during cold weather and lack of cool air during hotter days. 

You may be tempted to invest in repairs for your aging heat pump. But as repair costs pile up, you may realize frequent repairs may not be viable.

2. Frequent Repairs

If your air-source heat pump constantly requires repairs, it may be best to replace it with a brand-new system. Heat pump parts can cost hundreds, even thousands of dollars if you need to replace a compressor, for example. Repair expenses can quickly add up to thousands of dollars if you factor in labor costs.

The thousands of dollars spent repairing your heat pump may be better invested in a new system instead. There are also special rebates for air-source heat pumps that can incentivize you to purchase a new system. 

Heat pump warranties may expire and not always cover repairs. So, as your system ages, you’ll find that many of the repairs will be paid out of pocket. 

Repairs are expected in the lifespan of a heat pump. Even if you invest in frequent repairs, you may have to deal with increasing energy costs. 

 3. Increasing Operating Costs

If you notice your electricity bills are increasing whenever you use your heat pump, it may be time for a replacement. Rising electricity costs are an indicator that your air-source heat pump isn’t working as efficiently and is, in fact, working harder to provide heating and cooling. 

Heat pumps are known for having high energy efficiency ratings but can lose some of that heating and cooling capacity as they reach the end of their lifespan. Electricity rates vary from area to area, so you may feel the pinch of utility costs when your heat pump takes in more energy to maintain a desired comfort level in your home. 

With a new heat pump system, you don’t have to worry about the monthly costs of running it. A lot of new air-source heat pumps have improved their efficiency ratings so that you can take advantage of long-term energy savings. 

Even if you aren’t too bothered about your monthly energy costs, you may be unable to ignore the abnormal, noisy sounds from your heat pump.

4. Strange Noises

If your air-source heat pump is becoming noisy and emitting strange sounds, it could indicate an issue with your system. Some of the reported noises we’ve seen out on the field and from homeowners include.

• Rattling
• Grinding
• Squeaking
• Screeching
• Hissing
• Clicking
• Banging

Heat pumps typically aren’t noisy and operate quietly. If you suddenly hear weird noises, it’s a sign your air-source heat pump is experiencing issues and may need to be replaced. 

Numerous issues can cause your heat pump to make abnormal noise. By contacting a technician, you can have a professional diagnose your heating and cooling system to determine what is causing any unwanted sounds. 

Besides being annoyingly noisy, uneven heating and cooling are other issues that can point toward a new heat pump replacement.

5. Uneven Heating or Cooling

If your heat pump struggles to provide even heating or cooling throughout your home, it’s best to consider a new system. 

Air-source heat pumps are designed to make your home feel comfortable, whether burning hot or freezing cold outside. And if parts of your home aren’t getting adequate cooling or heating, your heat pump system is failing. 

On the other end, your system can provide too much heating or cooling if they’re constantly running non-stop. Whatever the cause may be, it’s highly likely that you will need to replace your heat pump system. 

Recognizing the Signs You Need a New Air-Source Heat Pump

Several signs may indicate you need a heat pump system, but only a technician can diagnose your unit to determine if you do indeed need a new one. Now that you know signs that point toward needing a new heat pump, you can prepare for when that time inevitably comes.

At Monkey Wrench, we’ve installed and serviced heat pumps all over Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. We’ve seen air-source heat pumps reach the end of their service and have helped homeowners decide when it’s time to replace their systems.

If you’re interested in a new heat pump, contact us using the button below. You can also book an appointment directly with our online HVAC scheduler.

If you’re on the fence about getting another heat pump, find out how this system compares against an air conditioner and furnace.