How long does an air source heat pump last?

How long a heat pump lasts

A well-maintained air source heat pump usually lasts 15 to 20 years. Some go on for 25 years or more. That is longer than most gas boilers, which tend to last 10 to 15 years.

The biggest factor is care. Annual servicing and good installation make the real difference.

What is the average lifespan of a heat pump?

Most UK installers quote 15 to 20 years for an air source heat pump. With proper maintenance and strict yearly servicing, a heat pump can easily last 15 years or more and, in some cases, even beyond 25 years.

Different parts wear at different rates. These figures are typical; your actual lifespan depends on use and care.

• Outdoor heat pump unit — 15-20+ years
• Compressor — 15-20 years
• Hot water cylinder — 20-25 years
• Controls and thermostat — 10-15 years
• Radiators and pipework — 30+ years

How does a heat pump compare to a gas boiler?

Heat pumps have fewer parts that burn or corrode. There is no flame, no flue and no combustion. That means less wear over time.

Over 20 years, you might replace a boiler once. A heat pump often lasts the full stretch.

• Typical lifespan — heat pump 15-20+ years, gas boiler 10-15 years
• Annual service — required for both
• Carbon emissions — very low for a heat pump, high for a boiler
• Main wear part — compressor on a heat pump, heat exchanger on a boiler

What affects how long a heat pump lasts?

Five things have the biggest impact on lifespan.

Correct sizing matters most. That is why we do a full room-by-room heat-loss survey first. An oversized unit cycles on and off too much. An undersized one runs flat out all winter.

• Installation quality — a poorly sized unit works too hard and wears faster
• Servicing — yearly checks catch small faults early
• Location — units need clear airflow around them
• Usage — constant on-off cycling adds strain
• Build quality — reputable brands tend to last longer

Why does annual servicing matter?

Servicing protects both your heat pump and your warranty. Most manufacturer warranties, typically 7-10 years, require documented annual servicing.

It also protects your bills. A poorly maintained heat pump can use noticeably more electricity than a serviced one. A standard service takes 60 to 90 minutes and causes little disruption. Our servicing and maintenance team covers Bexley and Kent.

How to make your heat pump last longer

Bexleyheath gardens often have mature trees and hedges. Autumn leaves can block airflow quickly, so a quick check every few weeks keeps things running smoothly.

• Book a yearly service and stick to the date your warranty needs
• Keep the unit clear — trim plants and clear leaves around it
• Clear snow and ice — gently brush snow away after heavy falls
• Leave settings alone — low, steady temperatures work best
• Watch for warning signs — act fast on odd noises or rising bills

What are the signs a heat pump needs attention?

Most issues are simple fixes when caught early. Call an engineer if you notice any of these.

• Rooms taking longer to warm up
• Higher electricity bills with no clear reason
• Grinding, rattling or loud humming
• Ice that will not clear from the unit
• Error codes on your controller

Real example: a Sidcup homeowner

A customer in Sidcup noticed their bills creeping up. At the annual service, we found a blocked filter and low system pressure. The fix took under an hour.

Their running costs dropped back to normal the next month.

Is a heat pump worth it over its lifetime?

For most homes, yes. Your unit could run for two decades on one installation. With the £7,500 grant, many Bexleyheath homes pay £2,000 to £8,500 upfront.

Spread over 20 years, that is excellent value. Read our heat pump cost guide for local prices, or explore our air source heat pump installation service.