How Long Does a Heat Pump Last? Signs It’s Time to Replace Yours
Last Updated on May 14, 2025 by Chad Peterson
How long does a heat pump last? Learn the average lifespan, signs of failure, and when to replace it for better comfort and energy savings.
I’ve personally seen a heat pump that was running for 30 years. But, it was running very poorly and had been for quite a while. It probably consumed enough extra electricity to make a good down payment on a new heat pump system. So can a heat pump last 30 years? They can, and humans can live past 100 and not put out as much energy as they did at 50.
How Long Does a Heat Pump Last?
Most heat pumps last between 10 and 15 years, but several factors can push that number higher or lower. In ideal conditions, with regular maintenance and proper sizing, a heat pump can sometimes reach 20 years or more. On the other hand, a neglected or overworked system may need replacing after just 8 to 10 years.
I have two geothermal heat pumps in my house that I installed myself complete with ductwork. They are close to 20 years old. Have run beautifully for all the time except for having to replace the compressor contactors in each system. The manufacturer is FHP or Florida Heat Pump. I’m not very brand conscience because installation is far more important than brand.
The reason a water source heat pump can last so long is that it never has to go into a defrost mode. An air to air heat pump outdoor unit runs in an adverse environment. Cold winter and hot summers. My water source heat pumps are connected to my well with a constant temperature of 55° Fahrenheit or 12.7° Celsius.
The water from my well takes the place of the air outside with the use of a water water coil instead of an outside air coil.
The average lifespan listed by manufacturers is often based on lab testing and assumes clean filters, balanced refrigerant levels, and controlled environments. Real-world performance depends on how often it runs, the local climate, and how well it’s been cared for.
💡 Pro tip: Regular maintenance — especially seasonal checkups — can easily add 3–5 years to your system’s life.
Types of Heat Pumps and Their Lifespans
Not all heat pumps age the same. The type of system you have plays a big role in how long it will last. Some are built for extreme conditions, while others work best in mild climates. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types.
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Air-source heat pumps are the most common type found in homes. They transfer heat between the indoor air and the outside air. On average, they last 10 to 15 years, though newer models are becoming more efficient and longer-lasting.
They tend to wear out faster in very hot or very cold regions due to higher operating stress. See what evergreenenergy.co in the UK says when asked how long does a heat pump last.
Ground-Source (Geothermal)
Another thing I like about my water source or geothermal heat pumps is that I don’t have any outdoor units. Everything is in my basement.
Geothermal heat pumps last the longest — often 20 to 25 years for the indoor components, and up to 50 years for the underground loop. They’re protected from outdoor weather and operate more consistently year-round.
They have higher upfront costs but offer long-term reliability and efficiency.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Mini-split heat pumps generally last 12 to 20 years depending on the brand and how often they’re used. These systems are popular for single-room heating and cooling, and their longevity benefits from fewer moving parts and no ductwork losses.
With regular filter cleaning and annual tune-ups, they can perform well past the 15-year mark.
What Causes a Heat Pump to Wear Out Faster?
Even a well-built heat pump won’t last its full lifespan if it’s pushed too hard or neglected. A few common factors can shorten the life of your system — and many of them are preventable.
Improper Sizing
If a heat pump is too small for the space it’s heating or cooling, it will run constantly, wearing down the compressor and fan motors faster. Oversized systems short-cycle, which also reduces lifespan and comfort.
Poor Maintenance
Skipping routine maintenance — like filter changes, coil cleaning, and refrigerant checks — leads to wear and tear. Dirt buildup causes overheating and makes every part work harder than it should.
Harsh Weather Conditions
Extreme heat or freezing temperatures force a heat pump to work overtime. Systems in desert heat or northern winters tend to wear out faster than those in mild, coastal areas.
Dirty Coils and Blocked Airflow
Blocked airflow is a silent killer. If return vents or coils are clogged with dust, the system runs hotter and draws more amps, putting stress on the motor and electronics.
💡 Keeping filters clean and outdoor units clear of debris goes a long way in extending the life of any heat pump.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Heat Pump
Sometimes a heat pump doesn’t quit all at once — it just gets less reliable over time. If you’re experiencing more than one of the issues below, it might be time to consider a replacement instead of another repair.
Frequent Repairs
If your technician is on speed dial, that’s a red flag. One or two repairs over a decade is normal, but frequent breakdowns — especially compressor or refrigerant issues — point to a system that’s wearing out.
Rising Energy Bills
Older systems lose efficiency. If your energy bills are creeping up and nothing else has changed, your heat pump might be using more electricity to do the same job it once handled easily.
Uneven Heating or Cooling
If some rooms are too hot or too cold, your system might be struggling to move air properly or maintain a steady temperature. Duct issues can play a part, but aging equipment is a common cause.
Noisy or Intermittent Operation
Grinding, rattling, or loud fan noises often signal wear on internal components. If your system cycles on and off randomly or fails to keep running smoothly, it’s time for an inspection — and maybe a new unit.
Can a Heat Pump Be Repaired Instead of Replaced?
Not every issue means you need a new system. In many cases, a well-timed repair can keep a heat pump running for several more years — especially if the unit is still within its expected lifespan and the repair cost is reasonable.
The key is knowing when it makes sense to repair and when replacement is the better investment.
When Repairs Make Sense
If the unit is under 10 years old, and the issue is minor — like a capacitor, contactor, or sensor — a repair is usually the right move. These are relatively low-cost fixes and don’t indicate deep mechanical problems.
When It’s Time to Replace
If your heat pump is more than 12–15 years old, and it needs a major component like a compressor or coil, replacement is often more cost-effective in the long run. Newer systems are also more efficient, which helps lower your utility bills.
💡 Many contractors use the “$5,000 rule”: Multiply the repair cost by the system’s age. If it’s over $5,000, replacement might be smarter.
Final Thoughts: Should You Replace Your Heat Pump Now or Wait?
Replacing a heat pump isn’t a decision most homeowners take lightly. But waiting too long can cost more in energy bills, repair visits, and discomfort than a new system ever would.
If your heat pump is over 12 years old, breaking down often, or struggling to keep up, it might be time. On the other hand, if it’s under 10 years and only needs a minor fix, there’s no harm in getting a few more years out of it — especially if it’s been well maintained.
🛠️ A good rule of thumb: If you’re dealing with frequent repairs or rising energy costs, replacing now could save you both time and money over the next decade.
When in doubt, get a second opinion. A trusted HVAC pro can run load calculations, inspect for hidden issues, and help you weigh your options.
If you are unsure how to proceed with getting a new HVAC system to replace an old and worn out one and you want a little direction, I wrote an article that lists lots of questions you should become familiar with before you start calling HVAC contractors. You can go here and read about some very important items related to contractors and equipment.
