Your heat pump repair bill can be quite a shock, and you may wonder if fixing the unit is worth the investment. A heat pump is designed to work efficiently. If there are multiple issues, it may use more energy, not switch modes properly, or freeze up. Whether you decide to repair or replace your heat pump depends on what you’re willing to invest. What makes sense to pay is also a consideration, especially in your heat pump’s later years.
What Does a Heat Pump Repair Cost?
According to Angi, a heat pump repair can cost from under $100 to well over $2,000. Most repairs involve replacing faulty parts. The actual cost of a particular repair depends on the following factors:
- Type of Heat Pump: A traditional air-source or ductless mini-split heat pump tends to cost less than a water-source or geothermal heat pump.
- Type of Repair: Affordable repairs involve issues with a thermostat or the unit not turning on. A malfunctioning defrost mechanism can cost a few hundred dollars, while a condenser can cost thousands of dollars to fix or replace.
- Type of Part: Small parts such as a capacitor, condenser fan blade, fan motor, or line drier are usually worth replacing. The condenser coil is a more expensive part, so whether fixing it is worthwhile depends on the level of damage or the system’s age.
- Labor: Even minor repairs can cost hundreds of dollars with labor factored in. A heat pump repair company may charge $50 to $150 per hour; this can add up significantly for a job that takes several hours.
- Ductwork Repairs: Issues originating from your ductwork may not be expensive to fix or can cost thousands of dollars to resolve. Small leaks can be repaired at a reasonable price. However, poor installation and extensive damage may require replacing air ducts, which may or may not be compatible with your heat pump.
Factors that Affect Your Decision
Once your HVAC contractor tallies up your repair bill, you can decide if investing in a heat pump repair is worth it. Here are some factors to consider so you can make a more informed decision:
How Many Years Your Heat Pump Has Left
An average heat pump lasts 10 to 12 years; some units may still run after 15 years. If your system is close to 12 years old and you need emergency heat pump service, replacing it is the best option.
A technician can test the heat pump to see how it’s working. However, the results of tests won’t reveal how long the unit has left. Heat pumps run year-round, so the demand for them is much higher than for an AC or furnace. Therefore, a 10- to 12-year-old model is unlikely to last much longer, even with a major repair.
Length of Time You’ve Waited to Fix It
A heat pump that needs repairs may still run. If your system has been making noise or heating or cooling your home less effectively, procrastinating will only make the problem worse. While a simple repair may give your heat pump a few more years, replacing a major component probably won’t. The issue has likely strained the entire system. At the very least, it’ll run less efficiently and the cost of major repairs may drain your budget.
Therefore, if you’ve waited too long, investing in a new heat pump makes more financial sense.
Cost of the Repair
A repair bill of $200 vs. $2,000 makes a big difference in the value of the repair. Heat pump replacement saves you additional repair services, reduces maintenance requirements, and improves efficiency so your energy bills are lower.
Generally, HVAC specialists suggest replacing a heat pump if:
- A repair costs over 50% of the cost of replacement.
- Your older unit is at 75% of its life expectancy.
- A repair costs more than one-third the price of a new heat pump.
The Heat Pump’s Efficiency
Whether you should invest in a heat pump repair also depends on the unit’s efficiency rating. A more efficient model costs more upfront. But lower energy bills can make up the difference over time. Heat pumps are rated using their Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) for cooling and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The higher the value of each, the more efficient a heat pump is. Heat pumps are required to have much higher SEER and HSPF ratings than they did 10 years ago.
Your Comfort Level
Are you comfortable at home, or do family members often say they’re too hot or too cold? No matter the season, it’s time to replace your heat pump if the comfort level decreases. The existing unit won’t become more effective and the cost of equipment will go up over time, so investing in a replacement now is a good idea.
Whether the System Is Still Under Warranty
There’s usually no sense in replacing a unit that’s still under warranty. If it’s out of warranty, the heat pump is likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Also, finding parts and making repairs will be more expensive. Replace the heat pump if the warranty has expired.
Contact Monarch Home Services
Providing heating services in the San Joaquin Valley, we can perform heat pump repair or determine if investing in it makes sense. Our NATE- and EPA-certified technicians are ready 24/7 to service your heating and cooling system. When repairs are too costly or your heat pump is outdated, we find a dependable, high-efficiency replacement. Our coupons and financing options help make your purchase more affordable. Contact us today to schedule service.