How to Keep Heat Pumps Pumping Perfectly

The invention of heat pumps is truly a marvel. They were designed to heat your home all winter and cool it in the summer. They don't burn any fuel source and the electricity they use doesn't pass through any element. How then does it work? Simply put, a special liquid soaks up the heat as it turns into a gaseous state and produces heat when it returns to a liquid state. There are a lot of complexities with heat pumps. If your unit is more than ten years old, call your dealer and ask about steps you can take to reduce your utility bills. If you can afford it, the best way to reduce those bills is by purchasing a brand new unit. With today's technology, energy needs can be lowered as much as 30% overall. Many homes are dependent upon these mechanical geniuses and that's why it's crucial a thorough maintenance schedule be strictly followed. If not, you open yourself up to no heat and no air when you really need one or the other. Another great reason for maintenance is to address small problems early on to avoid more expensive issues later. So then, what is a good maintenance program for heat pumps? 1) Call a professional who knows your unit inside and out for cleaning and upkeep. 2) If you want to do-it-yourself, keep the unit clean by regularly changing the air filter - about every one to three months. 3) Remove any noticeable obstacles such as dry leaves or twigs to keep the airflow clear. 4) Inside, set the thermostat to one temperature and leave it alone. 5) Clean the indoor coils if accessible. 6) Check and clean the condensation pan and drain. 7) Don't block air registers with furniture or other items. 8) Keep the area surrounding the heat pump outside free of debris. 9) Do not turn off the power to your outdoor unit except for cleaning. There are also many things you can do annually to ensure heat pumps work well. 1) Check for duct leakage. 2) Check the airflow. 3) Measure the refrigerant and check for leaks. 4) Inspect ducts, the blower, filters and the indoor coil for dirt. 5) Lubricate the motors. 6) Check the belt tension and condition. 7) Make sure the thermostat runs perfectly. If the unit seems to turn on and off a lot, it could be due to a thermostat problem. There are so many things that can go wrong with heat pumps. The very best thing you can do is have a professional regularly check, clean and maintain it. There are noises and sounds the average homeowner just isn't trained to detect, but a skilled specialist is. If a problem does arise, turn it off and call a technician. It can't be stressed enough how essential routine maintenance is. If done, it will keep your home warm or cool, whatever the season, and extend your heat pump's life.