A heat pump replacement is not just an outdoor unit swap. The indoor air handler, evaporator coil, and copper line set are assessed at the same time, because pairing a new condenser with an aged coil or undersized line set limits efficiency and can void the equipment warranty. Lakewood homes run heat pumps in both heating and cooling seasons, which accelerates wear and means end-of-life symptoms often appear in both modes before a failure occurs.
Sizing is recalculated using a Manual J load calculation rather than matching the old unit’s tonnage. An incorrectly sized original system is a common reason for comfort complaints that persist after replacement. Colorado’s altitude and wide day-night temperature swings affect the calculation, and the auxiliary heat strip is sized alongside the main system to cover the coldest nights without overshooting the heating load.
The existing duct system is pressure-tested to confirm it can carry the new system’s airflow. The electrical panel is checked for the correct breaker capacity and a dedicated circuit. After the new outdoor condenser, air handler, and thermostat are installed and the refrigerant charge is set, a startup test verifies pressures and airflow before the job is signed off and old equipment is removed.
Why Choose Us
Why Lakewood Heat Pumps for your replacement?
Every replacement enquiry follows the same structured process so nothing is missed and the written scope reflects the full job.
Written Scope Before You Commit
You receive an itemised estimate covering equipment, installation scope, and timeline before any work is booked.
Altitude-Adjusted Load Calculation
Sizing accounts for Colorado Front Range elevation and temperature swings, not just the old unit’s nameplate tonnage.
Full System Evaluation on Every Job
Each enquiry starts with a condition check on existing equipment so the written scope reflects the actual replacement needed.
Post-Install Performance Check
A startup test confirms refrigerant pressures and airflow meet spec before the installer leaves and the job is closed.
Vetted Local Partners
We arrange independent local installers who know Lakewood-area homes and the conditions that affect system performance here.
Questions homeowners ask before replacing a heat pump
Should I replace the unit or keep repairing it?
If repair costs are stacking up or comfort is getting worse, replacement usually makes more financial sense. A repair is still reasonable when the issue is isolated and the rest of the system, compressor, coil, line set, is in good condition. Delaying replacement when the compressor is failing risks a full breakdown mid-season with no heating or cooling at all.
What is actually included in a heat pump replacement?
The job covers removing the old outdoor condenser and air handler, recovering refrigerant, installing matched new equipment, and running startup commissioning. Line set inspection, ductwork compatibility, and thermostat wiring are all checked as part of the scope.
Will I need to replace my ductwork too?
Not always. If the existing ductwork is in good shape and sized correctly for the new system, it stays as-is. Duct repairs are scoped only when there are confirmed leaks, poor airflow, or a sizing mismatch with the new air handler.
What happens if I delay replacing a failing heat pump?
A system running with a failing compressor or low refrigerant charge draws more electricity and delivers less heating or cooling each week. A full breakdown mid-winter in Lakewood leaves the home without heat. Replacing before failure also gives time to size the system correctly rather than rushing a swap.
How is the new system sized, do you just match the old tonnage?
No. The new system is sized using a load calculation based on your home’s current insulation, window area, and occupancy. Many older Lakewood homes had oversized equipment originally, and matching the old nameplate tonnage repeats that mistake, causing short cycling and uneven temperatures.
Do I get any documentation after the replacement is done?
Yes. A written post-install record covers the confirmed refrigerant operating pressures and temperature split across the air handler. That baseline makes future service visits faster and gives you a clear record of how the system performed at startup.
Describe your existing system and we’ll arrange a local installer to assess the property, run a load calculation, and put the full replacement scope in writing before anything is booked.