If you have a heat pump keeping you comfortable in Linden, NC, you’ve made a wise purchase decision. However, some situations can lead to inefficiencies that you should know about. Here are six symptoms of an inefficient heat pump to watch for.
1. Rising Energy Bills
In optimal conditions, heat pumps can reach energy efficiencies approaching 400%. So, if you start seeing rising energy bills without an apparent cause, it may need attention. Some routine maintenance may be all that’s necessary to restore your system’s efficiency.
It’s also possible that your heat pump has a failing component that’s sapping system efficiency. In that case, we can offer heat pump repair options that solve the problem for you.
2. An Endlessly Running Heat Pump
Heat pumps should turn on and work for 10-15 minutes, then turn off for a while and repeat the process. However, if yours seems to run endlessly without ever shutting down, something’s wrong. If it always operated that way, it may be too small for your home.
If your HVAC system has only recently started running endlessly, it could be malfunctioning. To find out, you’ll need a visit from one of our HVAC experts. They’ll find the cause of your system’s inefficiency and fix it for you.
3. A Short-Cycling Heat Pump
A heat pump that rapidly turns on and off is also a sign of inefficiency called short cycling. A normal cycle should last between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on your home’s heating or cooling needs.
If your heat pump short cycles, it will waste significant amounts of energy. That’s because system startup is the most inefficient part of the sytem’s operational cycle. Short-cycling can happen due to a loss of refrigerant or because your system is too large for your home.
4. A Malfunctioning Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can also lead to inefficient heat pump operation. If your thermostat is over 10 years old, it’s likely due for replacement. That’s the average lifespan of a digital thermostat.
Ideally, you should upgrade to a smart thermostat, which will help maximize your system’s efficiency. Smart thermostats can make energy-saving suggestions and automatic setting changes that reduce unnecessary energy use. They even let you know when your heat pump needs maintenance if they detect unusual operating patterns.
5. Uneven Heating and Cooling
Another sign of inefficient heat pump operation is uneven heating and cooling in your home. If you find yourself struggling with persistent hot and cold spots in different rooms, don’t ignore them. And don’t try to correct the problem by closing vents because it will only make your HVAC system less efficient.
Uneven heating and cooling can result from problems with your system’s blower motor. Or it may indicate issues with your ductwork that require professional attention.
6. Your Heat Pump Is Over 10 Years Old
Finally, an aging heat pump is almost guaranteed to start suffering from efficiency losses. That’s an unavoidable consequence of regular wear and tear. You can expect a well-maintained system to last up to 15 years, with losses increasing at the 10-year mark.
If your heat pump is over 15 years old, consider replacing it. A new HVAC system will likely be far more efficient than your existing one. Plus, it will provide an opportunity to resize your system if circumstances call for it.
Newer heat pumps feature advanced technology that helps them work efficiently in all weather conditions. If your existing heat pump switches to backup heat on freezing nights, an upgrade can help. Avoiding backup heat use can dramatically improve your heat pump’s overall energy efficiency.
If you want an upgrade to a new, energy-efficient heat pump for your Linden, NC home, we can help. Contact Cape Fear Air, Electric, & Plumbing today to ask about our heat pump installation services.
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