How Much Does a Heat Pump Replacement Cost In New Jersey?
March 04, 2024
If you live in a climate with cold falls and winters, then you understand the importance of a great heat pump. Like anything else, heat pumps have shelf lives and you must eventually replace them. So, how much does a heat pump cost to replace in 2024?
It costs $4,000-$8,500 to replace a heat pump depending on the type, size of your home, and labor. Additional work like ductwork repair and replacement affects the total labor cost. It’s more expensive to replace a heat pump in a large home because bigger units are pricier. Ductless mini split and geothermal heat pumps are the most expensive to replace, but they’re quite effective.
Replace your heat pump if it’s 10-15 years old and requires repairs. Have your heat pump inspected yearly to catch problems before they become expensive. Follow along as we explore how much it costs to replace a heat pump in 2024.
When Should You Replace a Heat Pump?
You should ultimately replace your heat pump if it no longer works, and the cost of repair isn’t worth it. However, this can be hard to determine if you don’t know much about heat pumps and how long they typically last. You can use a few simple criteria to determine when it’s time to replace your heat pump, such as:
Your Heat Pump is Over 12 Years Old
Unfortunately, heat pumps typically only last 10-15 years, but they often go bad at around 12 years old. Heat pumps become less efficient as they get older and require repairs more frequently. It’s better to replace an old heat pump before it breaks down and you go without heat for a while.
Your Heat Pump Requires Frequent Repairs
It’s normal to service a heat pump once each year. However, it’s a sign that your heat pump won’t last much longer if you have to call HVAC technicians frequently. Instead of repairing your heat pump, put the money toward a new one if it’s old and requires expensive repairs.
It Makes Unusual Noises
Does your heat pump make unusual noises when it runs? If so, it could indicate that something is wrong with the compressor. Shrieking and grinding noises are especially bad signs that key components of your heat pump are faulty.
In some cases, it could be as simple as dirty or loose motor bearings. However, it often comes down to a bad compressor which typically costs $750-$3,000 to replace. If your heat pump needs a new compressor and it’s over 10 years old, you’d be better off replacing the heat pump instead.
Your Energy Bills Increase
Today, it’s important to do everything possible to save money on energy bills. Old, faulty heat pumps don’t run as efficiently, and they may cycle more often. This can happen because of electrical problems and compressor problems that are expensive to fix. Heat pumps should save money, not waste it, so replace your pump if your bills are unusually high and the unit is old.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Heat Pump?
It typically costs between $4,000 and $8,500 to replace a heat pump. That said, replacing a heat pump can cost up to $15,000 for a large unit. Heating installation sometimes involves intensive labor depending on the pump you choose. Several factors affect the cost of heat pump replacement, such as:
Type
What type of heat pump are you replacing? Replacing one heat pump with another of the same type is often the cheapest option. However, upgrading to a new type of heat pump, such as a ductless mini split, can affect the cost.
That’s because extra prep work may be needed to ensure the heat pump will fit your home. Some types of heat pumps are also significantly pricier, such as geothermal pumps.
Home Size
Larger homes require bigger heat pumps, and that’s where installation gets expensive. Bigger units are more expensive, and they may require additional ductwork installation which adds to materials and labor costs.
Labor
You can save money on heat pump installation if your home already has great ductwork in place. However, it can take up to 4 days to repair and replace ductwork if need be, and that adds to the cost of replacing a heat pump. You need a permit to replace and install a heat pump in many states, and that can cost up to $300.
Tips to Make Your Heat Pump Last Longer
While heat pumps only last 10-15 years, they can go bad sooner if you don’t take great care of them. Luckily, there are several easy steps you can take to make your heat pump last longer, such as:
- Schedule yearly maintenance. Healthy heat pumps typically only need maintenance once per year. HVAC technicians can examine the coil, filters, blower, and ducts for damage and clean them to ensure longevity.
- Routinely change the filter. A clogged air filter will affect your entire HVAC system’s performance, and that includes your heat pump. Change the filter every 30-90 days to prevent clogs so you don’t strain your heat pump.
- Clean the condenser. A heat pump’s outdoor unit, the condenser, is vulnerable to the elements. Clean the outdoor unit twice per year or as needed when you notice lots of debris. This is especially necessary during autumn when leaves and other debris blow in the wind.
- Clean the ductwork. Clogged ductwork overworks your heat pump and prevents warm air from properly circulating. That said, it’s best to have HVAC technicians clean your ductwork as it is difficult and requires special equipment. It’s best to have your air ducts cleaned once every 3 to 5 years or as needed.
Replace Your Heat Pump and Save Money on Energy Bills
It’s not worth it to repair an old, underperforming heat pump that simply doesn’t work well. Keep a close eye on your heat pump once it reaches 10 years old so you can replace it before it fails altogether. You can expect to spend between $4,000 and $8,500 to replace a heat pump in 2024.