Heed These Signs Your Heat Pump Needs an Upgrade
A heat pump is an efficient system for both heating and cooling your home. If you have one, you’ve probably enjoyed the simplicity of switching between modes, and your utility bills have probably been lower than they would otherwise be. But what if you’re not really seeing the benefits anymore? At what point should you consider replacing your heat pump with a newer system?
There are some indicators that you should keep an eye out for. If you have concerns about any of these things, it’s time to look into what your replacement options are so you can upgrade to a system that better meets your needs.
Age
A heat pump’s life span averages about twelve years. That doesn’t mean that a well-maintained heat pump can’t last longer than that, but if yours is well over a decade old, you should keep in mind that replacement is on the horizon. It may be better to look into your options sooner so you can plan for that eventual upgrade.
Frequency of Repairs
This is true of any system: if it requires a lot of repairs, even if none of them is very extensive by itself, you are investing a lot to keep it running. At some point, it becomes more cost-effective to invest in a new system instead of continuing to invest in the aging, degrading one. A new heat pump is unlikely to require many repairs in the first years of its life, especially if you are diligent about maintenance.
Increasing Utility Bills
If your energy usage is increasing even when you aren’t using your heat pump more of the time, it’s a sign that the efficiency of the system has decreased. Regular maintenance can help, and repairs may be worth investing in if your system is relatively new. But if your system is also old and this is yet another in a list of repair needs, it may be time to upgrade. A newer system will be more efficient, and you can keep it that way with consistent maintenance.
Failing to Do the Job
Is your home still hot no matter how much you try to cool it? Or still too chilly even with the pump switched to heating? Does it run constantly trying to keep up with the needs of your home? It may be that the system is simply too small for the square footage and layout of your house, or it may be that it isn’t running as well as it used to. It’s important to have a qualified professional assess your home and your needs to make sure that when you invest in heat pump replacement in Denton, TX you are getting a system that will keep your whole home comfortable.
Refrigerant
There has been a change in what type of refrigerant is used in heat pumps. If your heat pump is 15 or more years of age, it probably contains R-22. Since then, more and more heat pumps have been built to use a refrigerant called R410-A. This type is safer for the environment. After years of gradually phasing out R-22, it is no longer being produced. If you have a refrigerant leak in a system containing it, you won’t be able to have it refilled.
If you have any questions about whether an upgrade is necessary or what your options are, we’re happy to provide more information to help you come to a decision.
Contact PRK Services, Inc. today to speak to a member of our team.