Heat pumps are a staple in many Kiwi homes and commercial properties, providing year-round comfort. However like any machinery, heat pumps require regular care to function optimally. Based on our years of experience servicing thousands of heat pumps all across NZ, this article delves into the critical importance of regular heat pump maintenance, explaining its benefits, the maintenance process, and how to choose the right maintenance provider.
Understanding Your Heat Pump
Before diving into maintenance, it’s essential to understand how your heat pump works. Heat pumps are essentially reverse refrigerators, transferring heat from one place to another. In winter, they extract heat from the outside air and transfer it indoors, warming your home. In summer, the process is reversed, cooling your interior.
The Benefits of Regular Heat Pump Maintenance
Improved Efficiency: Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate within your heat pump, hindering its performance. Regular maintenance removes these obstructions, allowing your heat pump to operate at peak efficiency. This translates to lower power bills and reduced environmental impact.
Extended Lifespan: Just like your car, your heat pump benefits from regular servicing. Maintenance helps keep your system running the way it was designed to, without the added operational stress of clogged filters and dirty coils. Regular checks also identify and address potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs. By keeping your heat pump operating in the condition it was designed to and catching potential problems early, you can significantly extend your heat pump’s lifespan.
Cost Savings: While saving on maintenance costs may seem tempting, neglecting maintenance can lead to higher power bills as the system needs to work harder when filters and coils are dirty. Prolonged operation under these conditions not only causes higher power bills than necessary, it also shortens the equipment's useful lifespan, saving you money in the long term.
Optimal Comfort: A well-maintained heat pump ensures consistent and comfortable temperatures throughout your home. You can enjoy a more pleasant living or working environment by preventing issues like uneven heating or cooling when airflow is being restricted by dirty filters.
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Heat pumps recirculate the air throughout your home. Regular maintenance helps them remove dust, pollen, and other allergens, which are trapped in the filters - some new models even have sophisticated multi-stage filtration that can even trap airborne viruses. Washing the indoor unit with special cleaning wash also removes any mould and bacteria that can accumulate, thereby promoting healthier indoor air quality for you and your family.
Reliability: Regular maintenance reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns, ensuring that your heat pump is reliable when you need it most. This is particularly important during extreme weather conditions when the demand on the system is at its highest.
What Does Professional Heat Pump Maintenance Involve?
A typical heat pump maintenance service includes the following:
Cleaning: Technicians will clean the outdoor unit, removing dirt, leaves, and other debris that can obstruct airflow. The indoor unit will also be cleaned to remove dust and contaminants.
Inspection: A thorough visual inspection of all components, including the compressor, fan, coils, and electrical connections, is done to identify any signs of wear or damage.
Filter Cleaning and Replacement: Air filters should be replaced regularly to maintain optimal performance and prevent dust buildup. Filters should be cleaned every few months to ensure optimal airflow and air quality. Dirty filters can restrict airflow, causing the heat pump to work harder and less efficiently.
Coil Cleaning: Both the indoor and outdoor coils should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and debris. Clean coils are essential for efficient heat exchange and overall system performance.
Refrigerant Check: The refrigerant level should be checked to ensure it’s at the optimum level. Low refrigerant levels can significantly impact the efficiency and performance of your heat pump and can cause premature compressor failure - a very expensive repair. Regular maintenance should include checking and topping up refrigerant levels as needed.
Inspecting and Cleaning Ductwork: For ducted heat pump systems, it’s important to inspect and clean the ductwork to ensure there are no sharp bends or leaks. Clean, straight ducts with no tears in them contribute to better airflow and system efficiency.
Checking Electrical Connections: Loose or corroded electrical connections can cause your heat pump to malfunction. Regular inspections should include checking and tightening all electrical connections to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Thermostat set point: Ensuring your thermostat is set correctly can help maintain the desired temperature more accurately and efficiently. Regular maintenance should include checking and adjusting the thermostat settings as needed for the different weather conditions.
Performance Test: Technicians will test the heat pump’s heating and cooling functions to assess its overall performance.
How Often Should You Service Your Heat Pump?
The frequency of heat pump maintenance depends on several factors, including usage, climate, and the exterior environment. However, for most homes it’s generally recommended to service your heat pump at least once a year, ideally before the heating or cooling season starts.
Signs You Need Heat Pump Maintenance
While regular maintenance is essential, there are sure signs that indicate your heat pump may require immediate attention:
Reduced Heating or Cooling Efficiency: If you notice a significant decrease in your heat pump’s ability to maintain desired temperatures, it may be a sign that something isn’t working as it should. Schedule a time for a service.
Unusual Noises: Strange sounds coming from your heat pump, such as grinding, squealing, or clicking, could indicate a problem.
Leaks: Water leaks near the indoor or outdoor unit are not normal and should be addressed promptly.
Frequent Cycling: If your heat pump turns on and off frequently, it may be struggling to reach the desired temperature, indicating a potential issue.
Top Tip: If you suspect something isn’t working correctly, call a trusted HVAC company and make sure you inform them that you need a Repair Technician, not a Service Technician. Most companies have staff in these two distinct categories and you may be wasting money asking a Service Technician to diagnose a problem when a more experienced and skilled Repair Technician is needed.
Choosing the Right Heat Pump Maintenance Provider
Selecting a qualified and reputable maintenance provider is crucial. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
Experience: Look for a company with expertise in servicing heat pumps.
Qualifications: Ensure technicians are trained and certified.
Customer Reviews: Read online reviews to gauge customer satisfaction. Look for companies with over 200 Google reviews with an average score of 4.5 or greater (beware of companies with only 5 Star reviews as often these are not genuine or have not been in business for a long time)
Warranty: If your system is less than 5 years old, check if the maintenance provider is qualified to undertake warranties or guarantee work for the brand in question
Benefits of Professional Maintenance Services
Expertise and Experience: Professional HVAC technicians are trained to have the knowledge and experience to identify and address potential issues that may be absent to homeowners. They can provide a thorough inspection and maintenance service, ensuring your heat pump is in top condition.
Comprehensive Service: Professional maintenance services typically include a thorough check-up of the entire system, including components that homeowners may overlook. This ensures that all aspects of the heat pump are functioning correctly.
Safety: Handling refrigerants and electrical components can be dangerous without the proper training and equipment. Professional technicians are trained to handle these tasks safely, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Warranty Protection: Many heat pump manufacturers require regular professional maintenance to keep the warranty valid. By scheduling regular maintenance with an experienced professional, you can ensure that your warranty remains intact.
DIY Heat Pump Maintenance
While professional maintenance is highly recommended, there are some steps you can take to care for your heat pump between service appointments:
Clean Outdoor Unit: Regularly remove leaves, debris, and grass growing in and around the outdoor unit.
Clean Air Filters: Clean with a vacuum with a soft brush extension. Replace air filters when cracked or broken.
Inspect Unit for Damage: Check for any visible damage to the indoor and outdoor units.
Monitor System Performance: Pay attention to any changes in the performance of your heat pump. If you notice unusual noises, reduced airflow, or inconsistent temperatures, it may be time to schedule a professional maintenance service.
Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance: While DIY maintenance is necessary, scheduling an annual professional maintenance service is a good ideal. You’ll have peace of mind that any potential issues are identified so your heat pump remains in optimal condition.
Ready to have your heat pump serviced?
Regular heat pump maintenance is essential for ensuring efficiency, performance, and longevity. By investing in regular maintenance, homeowners and landlords can enjoy cost savings, improved air quality, and reliable heating and cooling. Whether you choose to perform some maintenance tasks yourself or hire a professional, the benefits of regular maintenance are clear to see. Remember to choose a reliable maintenance provider and follow recommended maintenance practices to keep your heat pump running smoothly year-round. Should you need professional care and maintenance for your heat pump, call us at 0800-ONEAIR (663247), or visit our website to schedule our service.