Heat Pump Maintenance
Heat pumps offer energy efficiency and dual functionality, making them an excellent choice for climate control needs. While known for their dependability, regular care remains essential. If you’re looking for actionable advice, this heat pump maintenance guide outlines simple steps to improve its performance and extend its lifespan.
Most of the tasks discussed in this article should be carried out at least once if not twice a year, preferably in the fall and again in the spring. Any testing or repairs discussed in this article will need to be completed by an authorized technician.
Replace the Filter
One of the most important aspects of heat pump maintenance is changing the filter. Filters can get clogged with dust, dirt and other particles over time, impeding airflow and lowering efficiency. So, remember to replace your unit’s filter at least once every 3 to 6 months to help keep your unit operating efficiently. If the machine is in constant operation, such as during hot summer months, you might want to consider replacing the filter as often as once a month.
Clear the Area
It’s also important to ensure proper airflow around the heat pump by removing any obstructions. Remember to trim branches and remove leaves from around the outdoor unit during the warmer months and snow and ice during the winter. If you’re looking for guidance on the ideal amount of clearance around heat pumps, California-based Albert Air recommends keeping 24 inches (61CM) of open space around all sides of the machine.
Maintain the Grille
The air intake grille on the outdoor unit allows air to enter the machine while protecting the internal components, making it key to the heat pump’s operation: that’s why making sure it’s well-maintained is so important. So, be sure to remove any leaves, dust or other objects that are stuck in the grates, taking care not to push them further into the unit accidentally.
Clean the Coils
Since a heat pump’s outdoor coils play a key role in heat exchange and energy efficiency, set aside time at least twice a year to take off the grille cover and clean them. If your unit’s manual doesn’t explicitly state that only a licensed technician should maintain the outdoor coils, you can spray them with a garden hose and add a bit of mild detergent to break off dust and debris. Once the cleaning procedure is done, remember to straighten any bent fins with a fin comb.
Unclog the Drain
Although the condensate drain normally directs water away from the unit, sometimes it can get clogged, causing water to back up and leak. Even if you don’t notice any leaks or overflows, it’s still a good idea to clean out the pipe with a drain brush twice a year—once in the fall and again in the spring—to clear partial obstructions before they become full blockages.
Unblock the Registers
Ensuring that airflow from indoor registers isn’t restricted is a commonly overlooked aspect of heat pump maintenance. Make sure that toys, rugs and furniture aren’t covering floor vents, and that curtains, artwork and posters aren’t blocking wall vents. If you notice that the grates are dusty, clean them with a soft cloth. While most grates can be cleaned in place, you may need to remove them for a thorough cleaning if they’re heavily soiled.
Schedule an Inspection
In addition to simple tasks you can do yourself, it’s also important to schedule an appointment with an authorized technician to service the unit at least once a year. The licensed technician will perform a variety of assessments during the inspection, such as:
- Clearing drain lines
- Cleaning indoor coils
- Repairing damaged ducts
- Maintaining the ductwork
- Inspecting the belts
- Adjusting refrigerant levels
- Lubricating moving parts
- Calibrating the thermostat
- Testing electrical connections
If you have a geothermal heat pump, the authorized technician will perform additional checks, like:
- Checking the ground loop
- Looking for air pockets
- Servicing the circulating pump
Monitor for Abnormalities
Even though preventative maintenance can go a long way toward improving the performance and extending the life of your heat pump, it’s important to be on the lookout for possible issues. If you notice inconsistent performance or hear unusual noises, contact an authorized technician to take a look at the unit so that small problems don’t turn into bigger ones.