How to Keep Your Heat Pump in Great Shape

HVAC systems, including heat pumps, are costly pieces of equipment. Since they cost thousands of dollars, it would be prudent to take steps to ensure they stay for as long as they can. But the question is, how do you do it?

Four Seasons Air Specialists is your trusted HVAC company in Forest Lake MN. We help homeowners keep their abodes comfortable and safe by making sure their home comfort systems are working based on the manufacturer’s specifications.

Here are some tips you may want to consider if you want to extend the life of your heat pump.

Start with the filter.

Your heat pump’s filter should be the easiest component to manage, but it’s also the most oft-overlooked part. When your filter is clogged with dirt and debris, it can negatively affect the overall performance of the system, causing it to perform at substandard levels. As such, this issue results in discomfort for both you and your family.

The filter collects different kinds of pollutants that could otherwise cause s airflow issues on your heat pump as well as adverse effects on your health. A dirty air filter harms the airflow of the inside of the system, which can cause it to work harder than it should. As a result, the system will wear out much sooner, not to mention the added energy it consumes, causing you to pay more for inferior heating or cooling.

A clogged filter makes your system allow airborne contaminants to travel into your system’s internal parts, leading to the breakdown of the more sensitive parts. If you have household pets, people with allergies or respiratory conditions, you should clean or replace your air filter at least every 30 days.

Keep in mind that filters with a higher minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating need to be changed more often because they trap more pollutants in the filter.

The proper management of your filter will allow your HVAC system to perform its job with ease, giving you greater comfort and lower energy costs.

Clean the coils regularly.

The environment where your heat pump is installed can greatly affect the unit’s life span and performance. The general lifespan for heat pumps can be as long as ten to twelve years. However, proper care and maintenance are needed to ensure your unit does not retire prematurely.

One step to achieve a longer lifespan for your unit is to clean the coils as often as needed. Cleaning the coils will make it easier for the unit to run more efficiently. If you have frozen coils, make sure the heat pump’s defrost cycle is working. And don’t forget to clear away any frost buildup as well.

Consider humidity.

The health of your heat pump is also affected by your home’s humidity levels. If it’s too humid, the unit might find it hard to do its job effortlessly. Too much moisture will compel you to keep the unit running for longer periods; otherwise, the room may not feel as comfortable. This issue will eventually strain the unit. To avoid this problem, consider installing and running a dehumidifier.

Maintain the outside unit.

Your heat pump’s outdoor unit is prone to heavy amounts of dirt and debris such as leaves, grass, etc. Keeping it clean will ensure the proper functioning of both the entire system. This will also allow for better airflow into the condenser and help reduce the chances of debris buildup.

To clean the condenser (the unit found on the outside), you should first turn the unit off. Then, remove the panel to access the interior, and use a vacuum to pull out the debris. You can also clean the coils and wash the fans with a garden hose. Once finished, put the access panel back. You should also make sure the outdoor unit is level, as an uneven position can cause problems and expensive repairs.

Professional Heat Pump Maintenance with Four Seasons Air Specialists

To ensure the best results, entrust your heat pump to a qualified professional, like our NATE-certified heat pump experts. As your preferred Hugo heating and air conditioning company, awe guarantee your unit will adhere to the manufacturer’s standards. This will make sure your heat pump’s lifespan meets your expectations.