Friday, January 18, 2013

Heat Pump Maintenance Guide

Regular maintenance is a must for keeping your heat pump in pristine working condition for as long as possible, but do you know what it takes to keep your system up to snuff? There are quite a few things you, or we, can do to maximize the bang-per-buck of your heat pump; here's a few to start you off:

Check the Air Filter
This is the most vital thing you can do with any sort of forced air HVAC system, heat pump, air conditioner, or furnace alike. The air filter is designed to trap dust, dirt, hair, and other pollutants before they find their way into your system, your air, and ultimately your lungs. If the filter gets too clogged, there may be air flow restrictions that will lower the efficiency of your system, resulting in an increase in your energy bill and the eventual breakdown of your system.

Watch out for Refrigerant Leaks
Your heat pump is charged with refrigerant when it's first installed, and the refrigerant loop is a closed system, meaning it shouldn't need recharged unless there is a problem with the system. One of the main places refrigerant can leak is the coil in the condensing unit. If you suspect your system is leaking refrigerant we recommend having one of our service technicians take a look in the refrigerant line for leaks and recommend the appropriate course of action if any are found.

Lubricate the Fan Motor
Your heat pump works around the clock, all year long, and the fan gets a lot of use. Unfortunately one of the biggest things that can lower the efficiency of a system is the gradual deterioration of the fan. The fan bearings will need to be lubricated and the fan blades and belts need to be checked for good condition to guarantee a lasting performance.

Check the Drainage System
The drainage lines are some of the most important components of any heat pump system. These lines allow for proper evacuation of condensation buildup. When the heat pump is cooling, condensation will form on the coils and drip into a condensate pan below to drain out. If said pan is plugged clogged or otherwise damaged, it could leak and cause major damage and problems.

Don't let these issues get the best of you and your system! Regular maintenance is our fix-all solution, so call us today!