Heat pump maintenance cost
A heat pump tune-up costs $70 to $200, and an annual maintenance plan costs $120 to $360. Because heat pumps run in both summer and winter, most manufacturers recommend service twice a year.
Quick answer
$70 – $200per tune-up
Each heat pump tune-up costs $70 to $200; a yearly plan with two visits costs up to about $360.
Maintenance and repair costs
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tune-up | $70 – $200 |
| Annual maintenance plan | $120 – $360 |
| Service call | $75 – $200 |
| Minor repairs | $150 – $650 |
| Capacitor | $100 – $250 |
| Circuit board | $150 – $700 |
| Refrigerant recharge | $100 – $600 |
| Refrigerant leak repair | $200 – $1,500 |
| Blower motor | $300 – $900 |
| Compressor | $1,300 – $2,500 |
| Air handler | $1,500 – $3,400 |
What heat pump maintenance includes
- Replace or clean the air filter
- Clean the outdoor condenser coil and clear debris
- Inspect and clean the indoor evaporator coil (when accessible)
- Clear the condensate drain line and check the pan
- Test the capacitor, contactor and electrical connections
- Measure refrigerant pressures and temperature split
- Lubricate motors and check the blower
- Test thermostat operation and safety controls
Winter visits also check the reversing valve, defrost cycle and backup heat strips.
Owner maintenance
- Change filters every 1 to 3 months; heat pumps run year-round.
- Keep snow and ice off the outdoor unit and its base.
- Don't panic at steam in winter: that's the normal defrost cycle.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much does heat pump maintenance cost?
About $70 to $200 per tune-up, or $120 to $360 a year for a plan.
How often should a heat pump be serviced?
Twice a year, before cooling season and before heating season.
What are common heat pump repairs?
Capacitors, contactors, defrost controls, reversing valves and refrigerant leaks; most repairs cost $150 to $650.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.