How Long Does a Heat Pump Last?

Short answerA heat pump lasts about 16 years on average, according to NAHB's 2007 life-expectancy study. ENERGY STAR and the Department of Energy suggest considering a replacement once one is more than 10 years old, particularly if it needs frequent repairs, energy bills keep rising, or some rooms stay too hot or too cold.

What this costs

Our national estimates, not quotes.
Option	Job	Low	High
Replace	Heat Pump Installation	$4,450	$11,600

16 years is an average

These are averages for planning, not guarantees. NAHB says its figures are a general guideline only, and that installation quality, maintenance, climate and how hard the item is used all change the result.

The NAHB figure dates from 2007 and covers heat pumps in general. We didn't find a confirmed separate number for ductless or cold-climate models.

Signs it may be time

ENERGY STAR lists these reasons to call a contractor:

The unit is more than 10 years old
Frequent repairs and rising energy bills
Some rooms too hot or too cold
Humidity problems or excessive dust
A noisy system

What helps it last

A heat pump runs for both heating and cooling. NAHB stresses regular maintenance for HVAC systems, and ENERGY STAR recommends a yearly contractor check-up and checking the filter every month.

Common questions

Do heat pumps wear out faster than furnaces?

NAHB lists heat pumps at 16 years and furnaces at 15 to 20, so the figures overlap. The study doesn't explain the difference, so we won't guess at a cause.

Should I replace a 12-year-old heat pump?

Only if other factors point that way. ENERGY STAR's checklist says repair may still make sense for a system with a good record, and points to replacement when it is over 10 years old with repeat problems or costly repairs.