How long do heat pumps last?
Most heat pumps last 12 to 17 years. Heat pumps are commonly given about 12 to 17 years. They run in both seasons, so they log more hours than a cooling-only unit.
A heat pump heats and cools, so it works year-round and wears accordingly. Keeping the outdoor unit clear in winter and the filters clean in all seasons are the two habits that matter most.
Typical lifespan: 12 to 17 years
Heat pumps are commonly given about 12 to 17 years. They run in both seasons, so they log more hours than a cooling-only unit.
Heat pump maintenance checklist by season
Spring
Change the filter and schedule the annual service, ideally one visit that covers both modes. Clear leaves and debris from the outdoor unit.
Summer
Check the filter monthly and the condensate drain. Ice on the indoor coil in cooling mode points to airflow or refrigerant trouble.
Fall
Test heating mode before it is needed. Trim plants back from the outdoor unit. Check the auxiliary or emergency heat setting and learn what it does on your thermostat.
Winter
Keep snow and ice off the outdoor unit, and make sure it can drain. Short defrost cycles are normal. If the unit stays iced up, or auxiliary heat runs a lot more than usual, call for service, since that electric heat costs more to run.
Signs your heat pump needs replacing
- The unit is past about 12 to 15 years and repairs are frequent.
- It does not keep the house comfortable, or auxiliary heat runs much more than it used to.
- The outdoor unit stays iced over or the reversing valve sticks.
- Hissing, grinding or an oily residue around refrigerant lines.
- Rising energy bills with no change in use.
Typical heat pump warranty
Parts warranties are commonly five to ten years, with the longer term often tied to registering the unit within a set window. Labor is usually separate. Check the terms for the outdoor and indoor parts.
An appliance warranty tracker keeps your heat pump's coverage dates and receipt in one place.
What to keep for a heat pump
- The installation invoice and registration confirmation
- Model and serial numbers for the outdoor and indoor units
- Service reports and filter size
- Any utility rebate paperwork
Common questions
How long do heat pumps last?
Most heat pumps last 12 to 17 years. Heat pumps are commonly given about 12 to 17 years. They run in both seasons, so they log more hours than a cooling-only unit.
Is it normal for a heat pump to ice up in winter?
A thin frost that clears in a defrost cycle is normal. A unit that stays encased in ice, or has no defrost cycle, needs service.
When should I replace a heat pump?
Consider it when the unit is past about 12 to 15 years and repairs are frequent, or when the compressor fails. ENERGY STAR lists efficient models, and some utilities offer rebates.
How do I maintain a heat pump?
Follow your manual first. Each season: spring, change the filter and schedule the annual service, ideally one visit that covers both modes. Clear leaves and debris from the outdoor unit. Fall, test heating mode before it is needed. Trim plants back from the outdoor unit. Check the auxiliary or emergency heat setting and learn what it does on your thermostat.