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Heat pumps offer efficient heating and cooling for homes in the South Bend area. The average life span of a heat-pump system varies a bit, depending on whom you ask. But you can usually expect your residential heat pump to last around 15 years or more -- if it's well maintained.

A 2006 survey from the National Association of Home Builders found the life expectancy of heat pumps to average 16 years.

Of course, the life span can be shortened by faulty maintenance and extended through regular preventive care by a heating and cooling professional. Besides annual service visits, it's also important to call a professional if your heat pump needs repairs. Because these complicated pieces of equipment run on a 240-volt circuit, they can cause electrocution. Specially certified workers also should be the ones to handle your heat pump's refrigerant, which is regulated by the Clean Air Act.

Here are some ways you can extend the life of your heat pump:

• Have your heat and air system serviced routinely. This will help catch little problems before they become big and costly.
• Change your air filters on a schedule. A filter that is free of debris protects your equipment and can help keep a system from working too hard.
• Protect it from the elements. Purchase a cover for your heat pump to protect it from snow, ice or falling branches in the winter. Keep debris such as leaves and grass away from the unit year-round.

If you'd like to contact someone about the life span of a heat-pump system or learn more ways to extend your pump's life, talk to the Home Comfort Experts.