Heat pumps are an essential part of home comfort in New Zealand, offering energy-efficient heating and cooling all year round. However, like any appliance, they can experience breakdowns, especially as they age and are no longer covered by their - usually 5-year warranty. Knowing the potential repair costs can help homeowners be prepared and make informed decisions about maintaining or replacing their systems.
Since 2015, OneAir has provided repair services to thousands of heat pump systems across New Zealand. Most often than not, they are out of warranty systems that need to be replaced. To prolong the life of these units, professional technicians are needed to diagnose and perform the repairs. In this article, we'll explore typical repair costs for out-of-warranty heat pump units and ways to manage these expenses.
Common Issues with Out-of-Warranty Heat Pump Units
Out-of-warranty heat pump units tend to develop issues due to wear and tear over time. Several components may break down, leading to performance issues or complete failure. Here are some of the most common problems homeowners experience with their heat pumps and the associated repair costs:
Refrigerant Leaks: Refrigerant leaks are a frequent issue with older heat pumps. Leaks reduce the unit's efficiency, cause insufficient heating or cooling, and can lead to compressor failure if not addressed on time.
Average repair cost: $300 to $800, depending on the severity of the leak and the type of refrigerant used.
Compressor Failure: The compressor is the heart of the heat pump system, circulating refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units. A failed compressor often requires a complete replacement, especially in older models.
Average repair cost: $1,200 to $2,500, as compressors are one of the most expensive components in a heat pump unit.
Fan Motor Replacement: The fan motor circulates air through the system, and a faulty motor can significantly affect heating or cooling .
Average repair cost: $400 to $700, depending on whether the indoor or outdoor motor needs replacing.
Thermostat Malfunctions: A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the heat pump to work inefficiently or fail to turn on altogether. Sometimes, thermostat issues are simple to fix with recalibration, but a complete replacement might be necessary for older models.
Average repair cost: $100 to $300 for recalibration or replacement.
Electrical Component Failures: Electrical issues, such as faulty capacitors, relays, or wiring, are common in out-of-warranty systems. These components are crucial to the system's operation, and even small electrical failures can lead to more significant issues.
Average repair cost: $150 to $500, depending on the specific electrical component that needs repair.
Reversing Valve Problems: The reversing valve allows the heat pump to switch between heating and cooling modes. A faulty reversing valve can cause the system to get stuck in one mode.
Average repair cost: $400 to $800.
Emergency Heat Pump Repairs: What to Expect
When your heat pump fails in the middle of a cold winter night or a hot summers’ day, emergency repair services might be your only option. Emergency repairs typically cost more than standard repairs due to the need for immediate service outside regular business hours.
Average emergency repair cost: $200 to $300 in additional service fees on top of regular repair costs.
While emergency services can get your heat pump back up and running quickly, homeowners are encouraged to sign up for preventative maintenance plans to minimise the likelihood of sudden breakdowns.
Factors Affecting Heat Pump Repair Costs
Several factors can influence how much you'll pay to repair your out-of-warranty heat pump. Understanding these factors will help you budget and avoid unexpected costs.
Age of the Unit: Older units are more prone to breakdowns, and finding replacement parts for outdated models can be expensive, if not impossible (especially once they are over 10 years old).
System Size: Larger systems require more complex repairs and may have higher labour costs. Similarly, ducted systems are more intricate than smaller highwall units.
Type of Heat Pump: Most new heat pumps use the more environmentally friendly refrigerant R32, but before that R410A was the common standard,( and R22A before that). If the unit isn’t working at all, you will need the Technician (make sure he shows his Approved Gas Handler card) to undertake gas recovery which can drive up repair costs.
Location of the Unit: If the heat pump is in a difficult-to-access area, such as the roof or an enclosed space, labour costs may increase.
Severity of the Issue: A minor issue caught early, such as a small refrigerant leak due to incorrectly-tightened flare nuts, will be cheaper to fix than a more extensive problem like PCB or compressor failure.
Is It Worth Repairing an Out-of-Warranty Heat Pump?
Deciding whether to repair or replace an out-of-warranty heat pump can be difficult. Here are a few key considerations:
Cost of Repairs vs. Replacement: If your repair costs approach or exceed 50% of the cost of a new unit, it might be more economical to replace the entire system. A new system comes with five or more years warranty, meaning that you will have full peace of mind for that period since any malfunction will be covered by the manufacturer.
Energy Efficiency: Older heat pumps may not be as energy-efficient as newer models. If your energy bills are increasing due to an inefficient heat pump, investing in a new, high-efficiency model might save you money in the long run.
Frequency of Repairs: If your heat pump has had one repair already in the past 12 months, replacing the unit may be the wiser choice. Constantly paying for repairs can add up quickly, whereas a new unit will have a warranty covering most issues for the first five years at least.
Avoid Costly Repairs with OneAir ServicePLUS Guarantee
Heat pump repairs can be expensive, but homeowners don't have to worry about the burden of high costs. By signing up for the OneAir ServicePLUS Guarantee, you'll receive up to $350 worth of repair protection over the next 12 months.
With the ServicePLUS Guarantee, you'll have access to:
Annual Maintenance Checks: Preventative maintenance can identify issues before they become costly repairs.
Priority Service: Skip the queue and get your heat pump repaired faster, even during peak service times.
Discounted Parts and Labor: Receive up to $350 in repair credits that can be used for any unexpected breakdowns.
By investing in this plan, you can save on common repairs like refrigerant leaks, fan motor replacements, and electrical issues. Plus, regular maintenance helps extend the life of your unit, ensuring it continues to operate efficiently for years to come.
Be Prepared for Out-of-Warranty Repairs
Appliance repairs are an inevitable part of home ownership, especially once they are out of warranty. By understanding the common issues that occur, the average costs involved, and the factors that affect pricing, you can make informed decisions about repairs and replacements.
To avoid costly surprises, consider signing up for the OneAir ServicePLUS Guarantee, offering up to $350 in protection over the next 12 months and peace of mind knowing your heat pump is covered for most repairs..
If you're experiencing issues with your heat pump, don't wait for it to get worse. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our ServicePLUS Guarantee.