After months of keeping your home warm during Alberta’s frigid winter, your heat pump installation should be checked and maintained before heading into the cooling season. Fortunately, spring is the perfect time to clear debris, address minor issues, and ensure the system is ready for warmer weather.
Below, let’s shine some light on must-know maintenance steps to keep your unit working properly and efficiently throughout the year. Read on to learn more.
#1: Change the Filter
A clean filter is a happy, more efficient one. Since heat pumps operate year-round, your furnace air filters should be changed on a regular basis. For most heat pumps, this is typically 1 to 3 months, depending on the model. Simply locate the air filter, remove it, and replace it with a new, correctly-sized filter.
Some mini-split systems have a reusable, washable filter. Before cleaning the filter, make sure to fully turn off your heat pump and turn off the power switch. Then locate the filter, and wash it with mild soap and water. Once that’s done, let it dry completely before placing it back in the unit.
#2: Check the Thermostat Settings
Heat pumps are highly efficient, and can help save on your energy bill—as long as your thermostat settings are correct. As we transition from winter to summer, you’ll need to set your thermostat to the right temperature. Choose a consistent temperature you’re comfortable with and avoid frequent adjustments, which can lead to unnecessary cycling.
During the warmer months, we recommend a temperature of around 24 to 25 degrees while you’re at home. When at work or away from home, you can set this temperature 2 to 3 degrees higher to keep costs low. Keep in mind that lower temperatures may be more comfortable in the short term, but will increase energy costs.
#3: Clean the Outdoor Condenser Coils
Heat pumps have two key units: the indoor and the outdoor unit. One crucial part of the outdoor unit are it’s contains condenser coils, responsible for releasing hot air outdoors. Condenser fins are typically very fine and narrow, which allows dirt and debris to accumulate over time. We recommend scheduling a maintenance service rather than simply rinsing the coils with a garden hose, as this can often push debris further into the fins. When debris becomes lodged in the fins, it can restrict airflow and lead to a noticeable loss in system efficiency.
While it depends on your climate and environment, aim to have maintenance done at least once a year. That said, some units will need to have this done more often.
#4: Inspect the Condensate Drain
As the weather warms up and your heat pump switches from heating to cooling mode, moisture from the indoor coil needs to go somewhere. This is known as the condensate drain, which carries away this moisture from the heat pump’s indoor drain pan. If the condensate drain is clogged, the water won’t drain properly. Eventually, this can lead to water leaks and even water damage as the water overfills the pan and seeps into your furnace.
Make it a priority to regularly inspect your condensate drain. If you see debris buildup, you can clear it away with a shop vacuum or seek professional assistance.
#5: Stay Up to Date on Annual Tune-Ups
Heat pumps are often the unsung hero of the home. Unlike air conditioners or furnaces, heat pumps don’t have a single ‘active’ season. As heat pumps operate year-round, it’s crucial to remember routine maintenance and tune-ups.
Your HVAC technician plays a more active role beyond performing the heat pump installation. Servicing is essential. While heat pumps are known for their energy efficiency, these savings can disappear if not system isn’t serviced properly. In fact, a poorly maintained heat pump can lose up to 25% of its energy efficiency over time.
During the tune-up, your technician may:
- Take refrigerant pressure readings
- Inspect the control circuit
- Examine the compressor
- Inspect & clear drain connections
Edmonton’s Heat Pump Experts
For nearly 50 years, Weiss-Johnson has been providing Edmontonians with end-to-end heating, cooling, and plumbing solutions. Since our humble beginnings, we’ve served over 100,000 satisfied customers, and can’t wait to support you as well.
At Weiss-Johnson, we’re Edmonton’s go-to experts for heat pumps, whether it’s exceptional heat pump installations or ongoing care. Get in touch with us today for a service estimate or to schedule your appointment with our service team and take one step closer to a home with year-round comfort.
