Heat pumps are the most common home comfort system in Hampton Roads because our winters are mild. They're efficient and versatile, but because they run year-round they wear faster than an air conditioner that only runs in summer. Ace Mechanical is a family-owned, licensed and insured Virginia contractor with more than 30 years of experience. We'll tell you honestly whether yours has good years left or is ready to be replaced.
How long do heat pumps last?
Most heat pumps last about 10 to 15 years. Regular maintenance, twice a year, helps a system reach the long end of that range. Salt air near the water and skipped maintenance shorten it. Once your heat pump passes 10 years, keep an eye on its performance and your power bills.
Signs your heat pump needs to be replaced
- Frequent repairs. Several repairs in a year or two on a 10+ year-old system usually means more are coming. That money is often better spent on a new system.
- Rising power bills. A worn heat pump leans on its backup electric heat strips in winter, which use far more electricity. A sharp jump in winter bills is a common sign.
- Weak heating or cooling. The system runs longer but the house never quite gets comfortable, or some rooms are always too hot or cold.
- Loud or unusual noises. Grinding, rattling or loud banging, especially on an older unit, can signal a failing compressor or motor.
- Major component failure. A failed compressor or reversing valve on an older system is usually the point where replacement makes more sense than repair.
- R-22 refrigerant. Older systems that use R-22 are expensive to recharge because it's no longer produced.
If your system just needs a fix, see heat pump repair. If we think you can get a few more good years from it, we'll tell you.
Our heat pump replacement process
- Inspection and honest advice. We check your current system and tell you plainly whether repair or replacement is the better value.
- Load-based sizing. We look at your home's size, insulation, windows and ductwork to size the new heat pump correctly. An oversized unit short-cycles and leaves humidity behind.
- Written options. You get clear, flat-rate prices for each option, including high-efficiency and dual-fuel choices where they make sense.
- Installation. Outdoor unit, indoor air handler or coil, line set, drain and float switch, thermostat set up correctly for auxiliary heat, and permits when required.
- Start-up and walkthrough. We test heating and cooling modes, defrost and airflow, then show you how to get the most from your new system.
Most replacements are completed in a day, so you're not without heat or air for long.
Heat pump, dual fuel or ductless?
- Standard heat pump: the right fit for most Hampton Roads homes.
- Dual fuel: a heat pump paired with a gas furnace for homes with natural gas that want furnace heat on the coldest mornings.
- Ductless mini-split: for additions, bonus rooms or older homes without ductwork. See ductless mini-splits.
- Geothermal: we also service ground-source systems. See geothermal heat pumps.
Why choose Ace Mechanical
- 30+ years serving Hampton Roads, family-owned by Kevin Clarke
- Licensed Virginia contractor (#2705120886) and fully insured
- Written, flat-rate pricing with no pressure
- Honest advice. We'll tell you if a repair still makes sense
Heat pump replacement throughout Hampton Roads
We replace heat pumps in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News, Yorktown, Williamsburg and Smithfield. Request a quote or call (757) 495-7782.
Flat-rate, approved first. We diagnose, tell you what failed and what it costs to fix, and start only after you approve the price. No surprise add-ons on the invoice.
Common questions
How long does a heat pump last in coastal Virginia?
Usually 10 to 15 years. Because heat pumps run year-round and outdoor units near the water face salt air, maintenance twice a year makes a real difference.
Should I repair or replace my heat pump?
If it's under about 10 years old and the repair is reasonable, repair usually makes sense. If it's older and needs a compressor or reversing valve, or has needed several repairs, replacement is usually the better value.
Why is my electric bill so high in winter with a heat pump?
Your system may be relying on backup electric heat strips, which use far more power. Low refrigerant, a defrost problem, an aging compressor or a thermostat set up wrong are common causes.
How long does heat pump replacement take?
Most replacements are done in one day. Jobs that include ductwork or electrical upgrades can take longer.
Do you install dual-fuel systems?
Yes, a heat pump paired with a gas furnace for homes with natural gas service.
Call (757) 495-7782 or send a request. You approve the price before we start.