Operating And Maintaining Your Heat Pump For Maximum Efficiency

Heat pump, like other heating and cooling equipment, require proper maintenance and operating techniques to run at maximum efficiency. The combination of properly caring for your heat pump and scheduling annual maintenance can result in a unit that is 10-25 percent more efficient than a neglected one.

There are certain things you can do to ensure maximum efficiency between professional tune-ups:

• Use the “auto” fan setting. This allows the thermostat to control the fan and achieve optimal performance.
• Change the filter once per quarter or as needed. Check the filter every quarter, and if it appears clogged, replace it with a new one. A new filter will ensure proper airflow and put less strain on the compressor, making the cost of replacing the filter well worth it.
• Clean the outdoor coils periodically. If dirt appears on the outside, that’s your cue to hose down the outdoor coils. You should also keep plants trimmed back so they don’t obstruct airflow.

At least once or twice per year, you should schedule preventative maintenance so a professional can complete the following tasks:

• Inspect the system for dirt or obstructions and clean it out
• Check for adequate airflow
• Check the refrigerant charge and fix any leaks
• Verify that electric connections are clean and tight
• Lubricate the blower motor
• Inspect belts for wear and tightness
• Ensure the thermostat is operating correctly
• Diagnose leaky ducts and seal them if needed

Each of these checks keeps your heat pump in pristine condition for years to come, helping you avoid expensive repairs and delaying replacements. For more information, please contact Air-Tro, Inc. Heating & Air Conditioning in Pasadena today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Los Angeles, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about heat pumps and other HVAC topics, visit our website.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock