While many homes have a furnace and an air conditioner to keep their houses comfortable all year long, many have opted for a heat pump in recent years. Heat pumps are ideal for the Carolinas because winters here aren’t so cold. Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling and are extremely energy efficient. But like all HVAC equipment, heat pump maintenance should be performed on a regular basis by a professional. This keeps your heat pump performing efficiently while protecting your investment.
How Often Should I Have Heat Pump Maintenance Done?
You should schedule heat pump maintenance with a professional HVAC company such as A+ Heating & Cooling – Electrical once a year. Ideally, you should do this in the fall before it gets cold in the winter. If you use your heat pump to cool your house as well, getting it tuned up in the spring before it gets hot in the summer is also recommended.
A well-maintained heating and cooling system is critical to comfort in your home. A well-functioning system is also energy efficient and cost effective. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the difference between the energy consumption of a well-maintained heat pump and a severely neglected one ranges from 10 to 25%. Without regular maintenance, heat pump repairs can cost you big money. With regular maintenance, you can save yourself money in the long run.
Heat Pump Maintenance Checklist
Heat pumps use a high voltage electricity and refrigerant chemicals, so regular maintenance is best performed by a professional. Here are the common checks and services that will be performed during your regular Heat Pump Maintenance appointment:
- Inspection of the ducts, filters, blower, and indoor coil for dirt and other obstructions
- Check ducts for leaks and damage
- Check refrigerant levels and stop any leaks
- Confirm your heat pump is receiving adequate air flow
- Inspect electric terminals, and clean and tighten connections
- Initiate a defrost cycle, and check for proper sequence
- Lubricate motors and inspect belts for tightness and wear
- Correct electric control, making sure heating is locked out when the thermostat calls for cooling
- Inspect the heat pump’s condensing unit base-pan drain holes and remove debris
- Confirm the thermostat is working properly
Heat Pump Preventative Maintenance You Can Do Yourself
Although it is best to leave your regular maintenance to the professionals, there are still several things you can do to ensure your heat pump stays operational.
- Replace or clean air filters every 30 to 60 days
- Check your heat pump for ice or snow buildup during the winter. If your heat pump cannot access outside air, it won’t work properly and may struggle to keep up with demand.
- Keep the area around your heat pump clear of grass, leaves, dirt, and other debris
- Remove bushes or shrubs from around the heat pump. A heat pump should have 2 feet of clearance around it.
- Your heat pump should be elevated 4 to 8 inches off the ground for proper drainage. Make sure your unit does not sit below a leaking gutter so it does not collect water.
- Clean outdoor coils whenever they appear dirty
- Keep the supply and return registers clean and free of dust. Keep the vents open to keep the air flowing
Call A+ Heating & Cooling – Electrical for Your Annual Heat Pump Maintenance
If it’s been over a year since your heat pump was last inspected, then call A+ Heating & Cooling – Electrical for your annual Heat Pump Maintenance. You can count on A+ Heating & Cooling – Electrical to do the job right. Our state-of-the-art technology helps us diagnose and repair any system. We have an extensive history of repair service on all brands of central air conditioning, heating systems and heat pump systems in the Carolinas.
