How Long Do Air Source Heat Pumps Last?

Air source heat pumps are gaining popularity for their ability to efficiently heat and cool homes, regardless of the outside temperature. This has led to enquiries about ‘how long do air source heat pumps last?’ While the answer varies on a few aspects, such as maintenance, air source heat pumps can last for over 20 years. Let’s have a closer look at why they’re so durable and how a little maintenance can extend the longevity of your air source heat pump. 

Average Lifespan Of An Air Source Heat Pump 

You can rest assured knowing the average lifespan of an air source heat pump is typically 20–25 years and are suitable for most types of homes. While purchasing a heat pump is a financial decision to consider, there are often government incentives to install them and help alleviate the costs. In many ways, it can be considered an investment in comfort, energy efficiency and sustainability in your home. 

Maintenance is important for extending the lifespan of your heat pump and as a result, it can further increase your savings. The longer your air source heat pump operates efficiently, the better it is for your home and your energy bills. That’s why many homeowners continue to invest in extending the longevity of their pumps, as the lower running costs can contribute to significant long-term benefits.   

Why Do Heat Pumps Have A Long Lifespan? 

The design of an air source heat pump, along with the way it operates, is one of the main reasons they’re able to function efficiently for so many years. The streamlined design makes parts easier to fix and replace without extensive labour.

The main components of a heat pump include a compressor, expansion valve and evaporator coil. Unlike boilers and oil heaters, there are not as many moving parts to a heat pump, which means less wear and tear. Boilers and oil heaters also burn fuel, making them more susceptible to corrosion. The way an air source heat pump operates sets it apart from traditional heating systems, making it a more energy-efficient and durable choice.

Maintaining Your Heat Pump 

Considering how long air source heat pumps last, regular maintenance is essential to ensure they remain operating efficiently. Homeowners can contribute by performing simple tasks like checking air filters monthly to see if they need to be cleaned or replaced. 

It’s also important to have your refrigerant levels checked, as too much or too little can affect the performance of your air pump. Coils can also accumulate dirt and dust, so they will need to be cleaned and replaced by a professional to make sure your pump system is operating smoothly. Ductwork should also be checked for damage or obstructions, especially if you’re starting to notice your heating system isn’t operating as efficiently. 

The best way to extend the longevity of your heat pump is through proactive maintenance measures. Some helpful tips to keep your pump working optimally include:

• Having it maintained by a professional at least once a year
• Regularly cleaning your outdoor unit
• Monitoring your thermostat to ensure everything is performing as it should 

Heat pump maintenance isn’t very complicated and as long as you receive regular servicing, there’s no reason your system can’t operate for many years.

Monthly Maintenance Tasks 

The good thing about air source heat pump maintenance is that it’s simple and not labour-intensive. Small tasks like checking filters regularly help with maintaining steady air flow and can help reduce energy consumption. It’s also important to check your outdoor unit as over time it may accumulate dust or leaves depending on the time of year. Also check for any unusual noises, as that can often be the first sign of blockage. Performing these simple tasks monthly can contribute to the overall performance of your air pump.

Seasonal Maintenance Tasks

There are some maintenance tasks that will need to be performed specifically during certain times of the year. These are also fairly simple tasks and will depend on where your outdoor unit is situated. If it’s near any trees, you may need to clear out leaves, branches and other falling debris throughout autumn. You might also need to prune any nearby outdoor shrubs and vegetation that are growing in the summer, as well as remove any snow or frost in the winter. These seasonal maintenance tasks will help preserve the condition of your outdoor unit and can prevent your pump from incurring damage.

Do Heat Pumps Need Servicing?

Heat pump components should be serviced annually to help maintain their long lifespan. A professional can inspect your system, clean the coils, check refrigerant levels and pressure to keep your system running at peak performance. Heating systems such as boilers require frequent servicing, but since they have more moving parts, they’re more prone to needing repairs and replacements. 

Signs Your Heat Pump Is Breaking Down 

While heat pumps last for 20 years on average, you shouldn’t experience many issues. The following are a few things to look out for in the rare instance something is wrong with your heat pump:

• Frequent repairs: If you’ve had your air source heat pump for less than 20 years and it requires frequent repairs, it may require more than just servicing.
• Less efficient: If you’ve kept track of your thermostat and noticed your energy bills are higher, it could be a sign that you either need repairs or that a component of your heat pump might need to be replaced. Being proactive about your maintenance can prevent a small problem from escalating.
• Odd noises: Like a lot of machinery, a key indicator that something is seriously wrong is if it starts to make unusual noises. This could be a sign you require a new unit or a component that needs replacing. 

Do Newer Heat Pumps Last Longer Than Older Models? 

Over time, air source heat pumps have upgraded and become even more energy efficient. In the last few years, advancements have included improved refrigerants that absorb heat in low temperatures and improved insulation that reduces energy loss. When combined with regular maintenance and routine annual inspections, newer heat pumps can last much longer than older models. These updates also improve the performance of air source heat pumps, so they can operate efficiently year-round in the UK.

Air Source Heat Pump Installation With Rollings Renewables 

Contact the expert team at Rolling Renewables to install a new air source heat pump for your home. You can experience the benefits of sustainable heating even during cold weather and cooling during the warmer months. 

These energy-efficient units help reduce your carbon footprint and have a long lifespan. Call us on 01905 621777 or email us at sales@rollingsrenewables.co.uk for more information about how long air source heat pumps last and the benefits they can bring to your home.