It really doesn't make sense to just replace the compressor. Today's models will be at least 30% more efficient. What's your electricity supplier?

That's what I think too. Replacing the whole thing makes more sense. Energy supplier is Dominion, in Virginia.

(I'd be happy to talk you through it. I've written way too many articles and brochures about heat pumps.)

And I'll be happy for any advice!

Typo, yes, it is an air-source heat pump, then.

Modern heat pumps are pretty reliable. Usually what's more important is getting a quality installation and a service contract. Your utility may have a financing program and probably some kind of rebate program. Your electricity bill will be lower, but estimating how much lower requires witchcraft.

The first thing to be suspicious of is a company that quotes you a heat pump size based on your saying "I have a three-bedroom house." If someone doesn't come out and do a lot of measuring and the Manual J calculations, he doesn't have a clue. Here's a good guide to that. [link]

Modern heat pumps are pretty reliable.

Good to know. I'm comfortable with the quality of the company and their technicians. Service contract, definitely. Rebates, available. Don't need to know exactly how much lower the bill will be. (Not worth firing up the ol' pentagram...) Someone's coming out tomorrow to do measurements and calculations. Thanks for that link! I will peruse it at length tonight.

You might want to ask whoever comes out about the state of your ducts. Duct sealing can save a significant amount and should be fairly reasonable when they're already there.

It is, by the way, a bad thing to seal your ducts with duct tape.

It is, by the way, a bad thing to seal your ducts with duct tape.

That's just sad.

He's going to be in the attic looking at the condenser (I think that's what's up there) so I'll have him check the visible ductwork too.

You are an invaluable resource, Ginger!

According to a number of on-line sites the contractor is more important than the heat pump brand. And yes, checking your ducts. Also secondarily have him check the weather sealing on your doors and windows and check the quality of your insulation. If any of that needs an upgrade, when you are replacing your heating system is a good time to do that.

It is, by the way, a bad thing to seal your ducts with duct tape.

Well. I agree with Zen. That's just sad.

Sorry for my little freak-out. It's been a freak-out-generating kind of day. The heat pump was just the safest thing to vent it on.

You know, I think one of the prime signs of ownership must be a deep interest in ductwork.

Or it's a sign of a deep interest in the movie Brazil.

Brazil is the funniest movie I ever saw that left me depressed for days afterwords. (And yes, that is totally a favorable review.)