If you’re like most homeowners, you don’t spend too much time thinking about your HVAC system—you just know that it’s there, churning away and keeping your home comfortable. But eventually, your HVAC system will run its course, and you’ll have to turn your attention to replacing this crucial piece of equipment.
When it’s time to replace your heating system, you’ll have several options to choose from. You could remove your failing furnace or boiler and have a newer model installed, or you could take this opportunity to invest in a more energy-efficient option, like a heat pump from Mitsubishi Electric. Before you make a decision, however, you’ll want to find out what the average lifespan of a heat pump is and how that number compares to the lifespans of other HVAC options.
Average HVAC System Lifespans
No HVAC system will last forever, but some have longer lifespans than others. The average life expectancy for some of the most common HVAC systems are as follows:
- Heat pumps: Heat pumps last for an average of 15 years, though more advanced options like Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps and Mitsubishi Electric mini splits can last longer with proper maintenance.
- Ductless mini splits: The lifespan of a ductless mini split varies, but with regular maintenance, these systems can last for up to 30 years.
- Furnaces: Gas furnaces can last a long time, with the average lifespan falling between 20 and 30 years. Oil furnaces, on the other hand, tend to fail sooner and may only last for 10 years.
- Boilers: Boilers are one of the longest-lasting options and have an average lifespan of 20-35 years.
- Air conditioners: Air conditioners generally last for 15-20 years, though they can wear out in as little as 7 depending on location and usage.
While these numbers are important, life expectancy isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing a new HVAC unit. You’ll also want to think about efficiency and how much equipment you’ll need.
Though a heat pump may not last as long as a boiler, for example, it will provide much more efficient operation and require less energy to run. Plus, because it can both heat and cool your home, you won’t have to have separate heating and cooling systems installed.
It’s also important to note that all HVAC equipment becomes less efficient with age, and many homeowners choose to replace their HVAC equipment due to decreased efficiency and performance before the system has stopped working entirely.
Regular Maintenance Will Help Your Heat Pump Last Longer
If you decide to have a heat pump installed, regular maintenance will help you get the most out of your investment. Because it provides both heating and cooling, your heat pump will likely be running for most of the year, and all that usage is bound to take a toll. By scheduling regular maintenance calls (twice a year is typically recommended) you’ll be able to keep your heat pump clean and catch any issues before they cause serious damage. Some of the most important maintenance tasks to keep up with for your heat pump include:
- Inspecting and cleaning ducts, filters, blower, and coils
- Verifying adequate airflow
- Checking for refrigerant leaks and verifying refrigerant charge
- Lubricating motors
- Cutting back plant growth around the outdoor component
While some maintenance tasks, like clearing away plant growth and changing filters, can be easily done yourself, more intensive maintenance is best left to a professional. At Kearney HVAC, we offer ongoing service plans and can help keep your heat pump running optimally for as long as possible.
Enjoy the Long-Lasting Benefits of a Heat Pump for Your Home
At Kearney HVAC, we proudly install premium Mitsubishi Electric ducted heat pumps and ductless mini splits that offer impressive efficiency and long-lasting performance. We’re dedicated to helping our customers from the North Shore of Massachusetts to the Seacoast Region of New Hampshire update their homes with high-efficiency HVAC systems and would love to help you upgrade to a Mitsubishi Electric heat pump. We can even help you qualify for Mass Save heat pump rebates, which could lead to savings of up to $10,000 for your heat pump installation.
