Heat pump maintenance ensures your HVAC equipment provides reliable heating and cooling. It includes many DIY tasks. While industry professionals recommend two tune-ups a year, heat pumps don’t operate on the principle of “set it and forget it”. As temperatures in Portland fluctuate throughout the year, your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable. The following maintenance tips can reduce wear and tear and prevent costly repairs.
- Clean/Change the Filter as Recommended
- Set the Temperature to a Reasonable Level
- Maintain Proper Air Circulation
- Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Dry
- Clean the Supply and Return Registers
- Keep the Vents Open
- Defrost the Outdoor Coil If Necessary
1. Clean/Change the Filter as Recommended
Air filters must be cleaned or replaced for the system to run efficiently. How frequently depends on the heat pump model, the type of filter, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. The filter captures dust, dirt, and debris as air flows into the system, protecting it from contamination. If not changed, the filter can get clogged and restrict airflow.
Some filters must be replaced every month. Meanwhile, others may last up to six months and require changing or cleaning twice a year. The more frequently you use the heat pump, the more often you’ll have to clean/change the filter. When replacing one, ensure the new filter is the same size and the arrows point in the same direction as the airflow.
To clean a filter:
- Turn off the heat pump.
- Remove the filter.
- Vacuum or brush dirt off the filter.
- Gently rinse the filter in warm water.
- Let the filter dry in a shaded area.
- Reinstall the filter and turn on the unit.
2. Set the Temperature to a Reasonable Level
A thermostat controls the system to keep the temperature at the set level. Misusing it can reduce system efficiency. You can save money and reduce strain on your heat pump by setting the thermostat to an optimal temperature.
Rather than constantly running your HVAC system, try to keep the setting at 68℉ in winter and between 76℉ and 79℉ in summer. Running ceiling fans or installing a programmable thermostat can help better manage the temperature so your heat pump can run more efficiently.
3. Maintain Proper Air Circulation
Your heat pump’s efficiency will decline rapidly if airflow is blocked. The outdoor unit is most vulnerable to blockages. Check it often for leaves, dust, branches, toys, or encroaching trees or shrubs; trim back plants if necessary, keeping at least 18 inches of space on all sides. The leaves may be fresh in spring and summer, but they can still fall and collect on the outdoor unit; check the unit more frequently in autumn as leaves start covering the ground.
In winter, snow and ice can quickly cover the unit and cause problems. To melt it, switch the system to emergency heat mode and clear the unit off with a shovel, broom, or brush. If the casing is coated in ice, use a garden hose or warm water to melt it away.
4. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Dry
Exposed to the elements, the outdoor unit is prone to getting dirty. Neglecting to clean it is a bad habit and can lead to poor heating/cooling performance and many other issues. To avoid problems, follow these heat pump maintenance steps:
- Brush any dirt or debris off the outer casing.
- Clean the coils with a brush; you can also use water and a degreaser.
- Clean the fan blades to prevent the accumulation of dirt.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clear the remaining debris.
5. Clean the Supply and Return Registers
Air constantly flows through the supply and return registers when your heat pump is running. Therefore, dust and debris can easily build up. This can restrict airflow and make the air in your home dusty.
To prevent issues, brush any dirt away. If the vent covers can be removed, take them off and wipe them down with a clean cloth. If a cover is heavily coated or dirt is hard to remove, place it in mild soap and water, let it soak for a bit, and leave it out to dry before reinstalling.
6. Keep the Vents Open
Occasionally check the vents in each room to see if they’re open. Sometimes people can accidentally close a vent or forget to open it again. Closed vents impede airflow and can increase pressure in the system. Opening them can improve performance and reduce strain that can accelerate wear and tear.
7. Defrost the Outdoor Coil If Necessary
A frozen coil prevents the unit from supplying heat. If the coil gets icy, a temperature sensor or timer triggers the heat pump to switch modes. However, this mechanism doesn’t always work. You can defrost the system yourself by switching it to cooling mode until the ice melts.
Ice can also be removed manually, but this requires extreme caution. Being too forceful or using a sharp object can puncture the coil and cause a refrigerant leak. The safest method is to turn off the unit’s circuit breaker and spray the coil with a garden hose at low pressure. Or, if the outdoor temperature is above freezing, run the heat pump in fan-only mode and wait until the ice melts.
How Often Should I Clean My Heat Pump?
Heat pumps should generally be cleaned every eight to 12 weeks. The more frequently you use the system, the more often it should be cleaned. Usage also affects how quickly the filter gets dirty, so clean or change it more frequently if your heat pump has been in high demand.
When Should I Schedule Professional Heat Pump Maintenance?
A professional should inspect, clean, and tune up your heat pump twice a year. Schedule maintenance once in the fall and once in the spring so you can expect reliable performance all season.
Can Maintenance Help My Heat Pump Last Longer?
Yes. A lack of maintenance can shorten your heat pump’s life by several years. With proper care, the system may need fewer repairs and won’t wear out as quickly. It can have a lifespan of as long as 20 years.
Schedule Heat Pump Maintenance with Sky Heating & Air Conditioning
Our HVAC technicians are fully licensed, insured, and qualified. Trusted for heating and cooling services in and around Portland, OR, they specialize in installing, repairing, and maintaining heat pumps, including air source and geothermal systems. We are open 24/7 to provide emergency heat pump repair. To schedule heat pump maintenance or learn more about how to save energy and money over time, call (503) 647-4330 today.