Do Heat Pumps Need Annual Maintenance? (Plus FAQs)
Every HVAC system should have annual maintenance at least once a year, preferably before the season it’s used. “Do heat pumps need annual maintenance?” is one of clients’ most frequently asked questions. The answer is yes!
With years of experience installing and servicing all kinds of heating and cooling systems, I know that maintaining the major mechanical components in your home is always a good idea. I’ve seen heat pumps that have had yearly maintenance and some that haven’t. There’s a noticeable difference.
In this article, I will explain:
- Why your heat pump needs maintenance
- What an annual heat pump maintenance includes
- What happens to your heat pump when you don’t perform regular maintenance?
Why Do Heat Pumps Need Maintenance?
Your heat pump is a major home component, integral to your and your family’s comfort. If it’s not working properly, you will not feel comfortable in your home but will still be running up energy bills.
Because it is so important to your comfort, you must service your heat pump regularly. We recommend once before summer and once before winter. Maintaining your heating maintenance schedule ensures maximum performance and helps prevent potential breakdowns and comfort issues.
Your heat pump operates more than just one season and is often used throughout the year, sometimes under extreme heat or cold.
Impact of Poor or No Heat Pump Maintenance
System failures or deteriorations will occur when you forget or choose not to service your heat pump as part of your regular home maintenance.
Over time, duct leakage can occur, and registers can get stuck, impeding proper airflow. Other mechanical parts and accessories can experience wear and tear, making your heat pump work harder to produce the desired result. This will drive your energy bills higher than they should be.
Neglecting these issues can turn a simple repair into an expensive replacement. The result is increased heat pump repair costs or replacement costs. Ultimately, without service, you are costing yourself energy bills and leading your HVAC system to an early replacement.
What Annual Heat Pump Maintenance Includes
An annual maintenance check includes a complete system inspection and a diagnostic run-through.
Your technician will check the airflow and replace the air filter. They will inspect and clean the belts, blower, coils, and compressor, as well as all controls, ducts, fan, fins, motors, and outdoor coils associated with the outdoor unit. During this process, the thermostat is checked and calibrated for accuracy.
They will let you know if anything looks like it needs to be replaced. This is how you get ahead of breakdowns and repairs.
Your technician should be licensed and qualified to handle refrigerants and electrical terminals.
Four Benefits of Yearly Heat Pump Maintenance
Regular preventative maintenance protects your heat pump. It keeps your system operating efficiently, lasting as long as it should, and costing you as little as possible
1. Improved Heating and Cooling
- A heat pump that is running in top shape will always provide better heating and cooling than a system that is struggling to push air or is low on coolant.
2. Lower Utility Costs
- Because your HVAC system is running efficiently, it does not need to work as hard to achieve the desired results. This means lower utility costs.
3. Longer Lifespan
- A heat pump or air conditioner that has been regularly maintained has a longer lifespan than a system that has not been maintained simply because it doesn’t need to work as hard.
4. Valid Warranty
- Factory-installed heat pumps come with a warranty. Most warranties require proof of regular maintenance by a professional to remain valid.
Average Heat Pump Maintenance Cost Per Year
In my experience, the average annual heat pump maintenance cost is between $200 and $400 per year.
If you are interested in heat pump maintenance in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, or Manatee Counties, call us at Pronto Service Pros. We are here to help keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
Heat Pump FAQs
What is the lifespan of a heat pump?
- On average, a heat pump can last 15 years with proper maintenance. Without yearly maintenance, you will be lucky to get ten years out of it.
How much is annual maintenance on a heat pump?
- Annual heat pump maintenance costs between $200 and $400 per year.
Can I clean my heat pump myself?
- A homeowner can perform certain DIY tasks, such as changing filters and clearing debris around the outside unit. However, a licensed technician is required to handle gases such as fluorocarbons and some electrical work. We recommend using a professional.
Contact Pronto Service Pros today to schedule heat pump maintenance and ensure your home remains comfortable year-round!