The last thing any homeowner wants is for their heat pump to go on the fritz during winter. As the cold winds blow, it’s essential to have a properly functioning heating system. This isn’t just about preserving your comfort; it also impacts your wallet! A poorly functioning heat pump can use 10 to 25 percent more electricity, increasing your energy bills unnecessarily. 

Regular heater maintenance is vital for prolonging your system’s lifespan, keeping bills where they should be, and preventing future breakdowns. Since heat pumps are complex systems, they can be costly to repair or replace. Taking preventative measures and scheduling regular services from HVAC experts will protect your comfort and finances in the long run. This article explores heat pumps and how to maintain them.

What is a Heat Pump, and How Does it Work?

Understandably, most homeowners know little about the intricacies of their HVAC systems. They probably can’t describe the difference between heat pumps and other common types of heating units. However, a passing familiarity with heat pumps will make it easier for you to conduct preventive maintenance and call an HVAC expert when necessary.

Heat pumps can be organized into two components: an outdoor unit and an air handler inside the home. The outer unit pumps air into your home, which is heated or cooled as it passes through the unit. Heat pumps are considered more efficient heating systems as they leverage existing heat from outside.

Heat pumps use a refrigerant that is compressed and circulates through coils, making them extremely cold. As warm air passes through these coils, they extract the warmth from the outside air and push it through your duct system. Presto! You have a warm house on a cold day. In the summer, this process runs in reverse.

The Benefits of a Heat Pump

Heat pumps streamline your HVAC system, delivering hot or cold air depending on the season. This means you only have to deal with a single unit. They’re also known to use less energy than traditional heating systems, especially furnaces, which require fuel to run. Heat pumps can reduce your energy bills by 30 to 40 percent! You don’t want to lose these savings due to poor heater maintenance, so it’s crucial to keep up with the health of your system.

What Are Common Heat Pump Issues?

This process sounds simple, so what could go wrong? However, heat pumps feature complex mechanics that can go wrong in a few common ways. These include inadequate temperatures or a total lack of air pumped out of your system. The problem could be a dirty filter or a clog in your HVAC system. If you’re not getting any air, it may be a wiring or thermostat issue.

However, there are more concerning (and costly) issues that could be disrupting your daily comfort. If you’re hearing strange noises, you may want to call a heater repair technician to inspect your heat pumps. Strange sounds could indicate a loose or broken component. The sooner you diagnose the issue, the cheaper it will be to fix.

DIY Heat Pump Maintenance

Don’t underestimate the impact of routine heater maintenance. The better you care for your heat pumps, the less likely they are to require heater repair. Something as simple as regularly replacing your air filter — about once a month — can significantly impact the health of your HVAC system. Dirty filters lead to clogs, which force your heater to work harder to heat your home. This inefficiency increases energy bills and can cause airborne contaminants to collect inside, impairing the air quality.

It’s also essential to take care of the outdoor unit. Trim the grass, weeds, and other plants around the unit to prevent them from obstructing airflow, getting caught in the fan, or clogging the coils. Any of these issues can cause your heater to overwork and deteriorate quickly, requiring professional attention.

When to Find Professional Heat Pump Maintenance Near You

While you can take steps to maintain your heat pump yourself, the best thing you can do to support your heating system is to schedule regular maintenance from an HVAC professional. Seasonal inspections and tune-ups ensure your system works efficiently, keeping bills low and preventing future damage. These services include inspecting for leaks, checking the electrical components, and examining the motor, belts, and lubrication. These tasks are critical for maintaining an efficient heating system, underscoring the importance of expert HVAC maintenance.

Whether you need routine maintenance or are experiencing a problem, ProFlo can deliver professional heat pump services. We’re familiar with the latest units and can efficiently navigate your heat pump to identify the issue and restore your system. We work quickly but thoroughly, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily routine. Call ProFlo today at 951-694-1300 or contact us online for a free quote.