How long does a heat pump last?

In recent years, heat pumps have become a popular and sustainable heating solution in Dutch and Belgian households. More and more homeowners and businesses are choosing a heat pump as an alternative to traditional gas-fired central heating boilers. But one of the most frequently asked questions about this investment is: how long does a heat pump last?

The lifespan of a heat pump is important not only for assessing the total investment but also for understanding which maintenance measures and usage habits contribute to a longer lifespan. In this comprehensive article, we discuss everything you need to know about the lifespan of heat pumps, the factors that influence them, how they compare to other heating systems, and practical tips for getting the most out of your system.

Average lifespan of a heat pump

Generally, a heat pump lasts 15 to 25 years , depending on the type, use, and quality of the installation. This means that a well-maintained heat pump often lasts twice as long as a traditional central heating boiler, which typically lasts 12 to 15 years .

• Air-to-water heat pump: average lifespan 15–20 years.
  

• Ground-water heat pump (geothermal): average 20–25 years.
  

• Hybrid heat pump: average lifespan 12–18 years, depending on the combination with the central heating boiler.
  

• Air-to-air heat pump (air conditioning with heating function): average 10–15 years.
  
  

One of the reasons heat pumps have such a long lifespan is that they operate with electric compressors and heat exchangers designed for continuous use. However, the better the maintenance, the longer the system will last.

Factors affecting lifespan

The actual lifespan of a heat pump depends heavily on several factors. Below, we discuss the most important ones:

1. Type of heat pump

As mentioned earlier, ground-source heat pumps are generally the most durable due to the stable ground temperature. Air-to-water heat pumps are more exposed to weather conditions and therefore wear out faster.

2. Quality of the brand and installation

A heat pump from a reputable brand, installed by a certified installer, will last longer than a cheaper system that is poorly installed.

3. Maintenance

Just like a car, a heat pump requires regular maintenance. This includes cleaning filters, checking the coolant level, and inspecting the compressor.

4. Intensity of use

The more often the heat pump runs, the faster its components wear out. In a well-insulated home, the pump doesn't have to work as hard, which extends its lifespan.

5. Environmental factors

Weather conditions, humidity, and air quality can affect the lifespan. For example, an air-to-water heat pump in a coastal area with high salt content can wear out faster.

Comparison with other heating systems

To get a good idea of ​​the lifespan, it is useful to compare heat pumps with alternative heating systems:

This shows that heat pumps are not only more energy efficient, but also have a longer lifespan than most alternatives.

Cost-benefit analysis: Is a heat pump worth the investment?

A heat pump is a significant investment, but thanks to its longer lifespan and lower energy costs, it usually pays for itself within 7 to 12 years . Moreover, the government offers subsidies, such as the ISDE subsidy , which lowers the initial cost.

Considering that a heat pump lasts an average of 20 years, this means that after the payback period, you can continue to enjoy affordable and sustainable heat for many years to come.

Maintenance and life extension

Periodic maintenance

A maintenance contract with a certified installer is highly recommended. Annual or biennial inspections ensure that problems are detected early.

Do it yourself

• Clean filters regularly.
  

• Ensure adequate ventilation around the outdoor unit.
  

• Keep the outdoor unit free of leaves, snow and dirt.
  
  

Replace parts in time

A compressor or fan can show signs of wear after 15 years. By replacing parts promptly, you can extend its lifespan by several years.

Tips to extend the lifespan

1. Choose a high-quality installation from a reputable brand.
   

2. Have the heat pump installed by a certified installer .
   

3. Combine with a well- insulated house to prevent overload.
   

4. Schedule annual professional maintenance .
   

5. Keep the outdoor unit clean and free from obstacles.
   

6. Set the temperature intelligently: avoid unnecessarily high settings.
   

7. Monitor energy consumption to identify deviations in time.
   
   

Future of heat pumps

With the energy transition and the increasing focus on sustainability, heat pumps are expected to become even more efficient and sustainable in the future. New technologies such as modulating compressors and smart thermostats ensure that systems wear less and last longer.

Moreover, manufacturers are working on refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly and degrade less quickly. This could increase the lifespan of future heat pumps to up to 30 years .

Conclusion

The question "How long does a heat pump last?" doesn't have a clear answer, but on average, you can expect 15 to 25 years , depending on the type and conditions. Ground-source heat pumps are the most durable, while air-to-water systems have a slightly shorter lifespan.

What's clear is that a heat pump lasts longer than a traditional boiler and also delivers significant energy savings. With proper maintenance, a good installation, and smart usage patterns, you can significantly extend its lifespan and get the most out of your investment.