Most heat pump problems are fixable. These four questions help you decide when a repair stops being worth it:
How old is it?
Most heat pumps last 10 to 15 years with regular service. Because heat pumps here run hard in both seasons, some land toward the lower end of that range. A unit under eight years old is almost always worth repairing.
Which part failed?
Capacitors, contactors, fan motors, and defrost boards are routine repairs. A failed compressor on an older system is usually the point where replacement makes more financial sense.
What does it cost to run?
Older heat pumps with low efficiency ratings cost more to operate in summer and winter. If your bills keep rising with no change in how you use the system, it's worth pricing out a newer model.
Can it keep up with the extremes?
A system that falls behind on the hottest afternoons or coldest nights may be undersized, or it may be low on refrigerant. We check for both before recommending anything.