How to Make Your Heat Pump Last



Heat Pumps, or any other HVAC system, is going to be one of the most expensive products within your Massachusetts home. With the high cost of a heater or air conditioner, with that high cost comes the obvious question, “How do I make my HVAC system last?” Luckily, we at Modern Energy have been working on Heat Pumps around Massachusetts for years, and are here to share some tips.

How Long Does a Heat Pump Last?

Generally, 12-15 years in Massachusetts. Massachusetts has harsh winters with snow and below freezing temperatures and while heat pumps work below freezing, it is still hard on the system. This number increases a little if you are further south but only by a year or two. Additionally, living near the ocean can decrease the lifespan of your system without yearly maintenance as the salt in the air can weaken the system. This salt can be cleaned out at a yearly cleaning and will not cause any long term problems.

Installation of a Heat Pump

Installation is arguably the most important factor in how long a heat pump will last. A bad installation sets your system up for failure and it could need to be replaced in just a few years. You can avoid this issue by using an installer that is certified and trusted. Ask friends, look online, or Google the company to see if they are certified with the state or any specific brands such as Fujitsu.

What to Expect During a Heat Pump Insulation

When your appointment comes, it will be an all day affair. However, for a single-zone system it should last only a single day unless there are complications. Multi-zone installations may take multiple days. The installation is split into four steps:

1. Preparation
2. Electrical and Duct Work
3. Installation
4. Calibration

Preparation is when the technician clears the space and gets all of the gear in order. This often involves moving boxes and potentially a previous HVAC system. Electrical and duct work is generally the most variable in terms of time. Some heat pumps are ductless and so no duct work is needed, and some houses have simple electrical plans while others are very complex. Next is when the indoor components of the heat pump system are brought into the house and are put together and set up, then the same for the outdoor components. Last, is when the technician takes some time to make sure the system is working and that there are no problems. Once the technician gives you the all clear, your new heat pump is ready to go!

How Can I Make My Heat Pump Last Longer?

1. Regular maintenance: Similar to your own body, your HVAC system should have a yearly check up just to make sure everything is running smoothly.
2. Clear Snow: The outdoor components should be built on blocks at least a foot off the ground, but if it snows over a foot, clear the snow around the system a bit. The snow can get sucked inside the system and make it work a lot harder to keep the desired temperature.
3. Don’t constantly change the temperature it is set to: The same way that constantly speeding up and slowing down a car uses more gas, constantly changing the desired temperature makes your heat pump use more electricity and puts more stress on the system. The goal should be to leave the thermostat alone as much as you can.
4. Get good insulation: Insulation keeps the air in your home inside. This allows your system to put in less work to keep your home at the desired temperature and will most likely keep your heat pump healthy for longer.

Signs You May Need a New Heat Pump

1. Age: If your system is pushing 20 years, it might be time to look into new options.
2. Needs Constant Repairs: If you are having a repairman over more than three times a year, that is a strong sign that you need a replacement. Repairs can quickly get very expensive and sometimes it is better to cut your losses.
3. Heating Bills Getting Higher: If your heating bills are increasing faster than the increase in electricity and the temperature is similar to the year before, this is a sign that your system is working harder than it should be to keep your house at the desired temperature.
4. Not Hitting The Target Temperature: This is obviously a sign that the system is breaking, it means the system is unable to keep up with the desired temperature. (If this happens once on an unusually warm or cold day, it is not necessarily a sign that the system needs to be replaced.)

Don’t be Afraid to Call

You deserve to be comfortable. You deserve to have your questions answered respectfully. These are very complex and very important pieces of technology that our homes rely on. Every HVAC system faces unique challenges and it can lead to worries. For a HVAC company that will never make you feel bad for asking questions, call Modern Energy or check out more blogs on our website.