Heat Pump Repair Cost Calculator
Heat pumps are one of the most efficient ways to heat and cool your home, especially in places like Vancouver where winters are mild but damp. But when they break down, the big question isn’t just heat pump repair-it’s how much it’ll cost you. Many homeowners panic when their heat pump stops working, assuming it’s a $5,000 disaster. The truth? It’s rarely that bad. Most repairs are affordable, and some issues are easy to fix yourself.
What’s the average cost to fix a heat pump?
Most heat pump repairs in Canada fall between $200 and $800. That’s for things like a faulty capacitor, a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning thermostat. If you’re paying more than $1,000, you’re likely dealing with something bigger-like a compressor failure or a refrigerant leak. Those are serious, but they’re not the norm.
Here’s what you’re actually likely to pay based on real repair data from Vancouver HVAC techs in 2025:
- Thermostat replacement: $120-$250
- Capacitor swap: $150-$300
- Refrigerant leak repair: $300-$700 (includes leak fix + recharge)
- Fan motor replacement: $400-$650
- Compressor failure: $1,200-$2,500
Notice something? The expensive fixes are rare. Compressors last 10-15 years. If your heat pump is under 8 years old and the compressor dies, you might be looking at a warranty claim. If it’s older than 12 years, replacement often makes more sense than repair.
Why do heat pumps break down?
Most heat pump failures aren’t random. They’re caused by neglect or poor installation. The top three reasons heat pumps stop working:
- Dirty air filters - This is the #1 killer. A clogged filter forces the system to work harder, overheats the motor, and eventually kills the compressor. Change filters every 1-3 months, especially if you have pets or live near trees.
- Improper sizing - Too many homes in BC have heat pumps that are too big or too small. Oversized units cycle on and off too fast, wearing out parts. Undersized ones run nonstop, burning out motors. A proper load calculation should’ve been done at installation.
- Bad installation - If the refrigerant lines weren’t vacuumed properly, moisture got in. That leads to acid buildup, which eats away at internal parts. You’ll see this in older systems installed by DIYers or cheap contractors.
One Vancouver homeowner I spoke with had her heat pump fail after just 4 years. Turned out the installer didn’t check the ductwork for leaks. Every time the system ran, it pulled in cold, moist air from the attic. The coil froze, then cracked. That’s not a part failure-that’s a mistake that cost her $1,800 to fix.
When is repair not worth it?
There’s a simple rule: if the repair cost is more than half the price of a new unit, walk away. A new heat pump in BC runs $5,000-$9,000 installed. So if you’re being quoted $3,000 to fix an older unit, it’s time to replace.
Also, consider the age. Heat pumps last 12-15 years on average. If yours is 10+ years old and you’re already fixing it for the third time, you’re throwing money into a sinking ship. Newer models are 30-50% more efficient. That means lower bills and better performance in wet winters.
Here’s a quick decision guide:
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Under 8 years old, one major repair | Repair - Check warranty first |
| 8-12 years old, minor repair under $500 | Repair - But plan for replacement soon |
| 12+ years old, any repair over $600 | Replace - Efficiency drops sharply after 12 years |
| Compressor failed, any age | Replace - It’s the heart of the system |
Can you fix a heat pump yourself?
Some things, yes. Others, no. Here’s what you can safely try:
- Change the air filter - This alone fixes 40% of service calls.
- Reset the circuit breaker - If the unit shut off completely, flip the breaker off for 60 seconds, then back on.
- Clear ice from the outdoor unit - Use a garden hose with lukewarm water (never hot). Never chip ice with metal tools.
- Check the thermostat batteries - Dead batteries cause phantom failures.
What you should never touch:
- Refrigerant lines - Handling refrigerant requires EPA certification. Leaks are illegal to fix without a license.
- Electrical components inside the unit - Even a small shock can kill you. And if you mess with the wiring, you void the warranty.
- Compressor or fan motor - These require special tools and calibration. DIY fixes here almost always make things worse.
One guy in Surrey tried to replace his capacitor himself. He didn’t discharge the unit first. Got a 120-volt shock. Spent three days in the hospital. Then had to pay $1,200 to get a pro to fix what he broke.
How to avoid expensive repairs
Prevention is cheaper than repair. Here’s what actually works:
- Annual tune-up - Pay $120-$180 for a pro to clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and test the defrost cycle. This extends your system’s life by 3-5 years.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear - Snow, leaves, and shrubs should be at least 2 feet away. Blockages cause poor airflow and frost buildup.
- Use a programmable thermostat - Constant temperature swings stress the system. Set it to drop 2-3°C at night. Most modern heat pumps handle it fine.
- Watch your energy bill - If your winter bill suddenly jumps 20% without changing usage, your heat pump is struggling. Call a pro before it dies.
One family in North Vancouver saved $2,100 over three years just by doing annual maintenance. They never had a major repair. Their unit is 14 years old and still running strong.
Is there financial help for heat pump repairs?
Yes. In British Columbia, the Home Energy Savings Program offers up to $7,000 in rebates for replacing old heat pumps with high-efficiency models. If your unit is over 10 years old and you’re facing a $1,500+ repair, you might qualify for a rebate that covers most of a new unit’s cost.
Check the BC Hydro or FortisBC websites for current programs. You can also ask your HVAC contractor-they often know about local incentives you didn’t even know existed.
What to look for in a heat pump repair company
Not all HVAC techs are equal. Here’s how to pick one:
- Ask for their license number - In BC, all HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Consumer Protection BC.
- Check reviews on Google and Trustpilot - Look for patterns. If three people say the same thing (“they charged me for parts I didn’t need”), walk away.
- Get a written estimate - A good company will list every part and labor cost. No vague phrases like “parts and labor.”
- Ask about warranty on repairs - Reputable companies offer 90 days to 1 year on parts and labor.
One contractor in Burnaby charges $120 just to show up. But they’re the only ones in the area who use thermal imaging to find refrigerant leaks. That’s worth the fee-it means they fix the problem the first time.
Are heat pumps expensive to fix compared to furnaces?
Generally, no. Furnaces have fewer moving parts, so repairs are often cheaper. But heat pumps are more complex, so when they break, it’s usually more expensive. Still, the average heat pump repair ($300-$700) is less than a furnace blower motor replacement ($600-$900). The bigger difference is efficiency-heat pumps use less energy, so your monthly bills are lower even if repairs cost a bit more.
Can a heat pump be repaired after it freezes up?
Yes, but only if the freeze caused no physical damage. If ice cracked the coil or warped the fan, you’ll need a replacement. Most times, a frozen heat pump just needs a filter change, coil cleaning, or refrigerant recharge. Always turn off the unit and let it thaw completely before calling a tech.
Why does my heat pump make a loud noise when it starts?
A loud thump or bang at startup usually means the compressor is struggling. It could be low refrigerant, a bad capacitor, or worn bearings. A high-pitched squeal? That’s the fan motor. Both need professional attention. Don’t ignore it-those sounds mean parts are wearing out.
Is it normal for a heat pump to run all the time in winter?
Yes, if it’s properly sized. Unlike furnaces that blast hot air in bursts, heat pumps run longer at lower output to maintain steady temperature. If it’s running nonstop and your home still feels cold, then something’s wrong-likely a dirty filter, blocked coils, or low refrigerant.
Do heat pumps need more maintenance than air conditioners?
Yes, because they work year-round. An AC unit only runs in summer. A heat pump runs in winter for heating and summer for cooling. That means twice the wear. Annual maintenance is non-negotiable. Skip it, and you’ll pay for it in repairs.
Final thought: Fix it, or replace it?
Most heat pump repairs aren’t expensive. They’re just misunderstood. A $500 fix isn’t a loss-it’s an investment in comfort. But if your system is old, inefficient, or breaking down often, you’re not saving money-you’re delaying the inevitable.
Check your unit’s age. Look at your repair history. Compare the cost of fixing it to the cost of a new one with rebates. Nine times out of ten, you’ll find that a new, efficient heat pump pays for itself in energy savings within 3-5 years.
Don’t wait until it dies in the middle of January. Get a pro to inspect it now. A $150 checkup could save you $2,000 later.
