Heat pumps should be subject to annual cleaning and regular maintenance. At each new season, it is recommended that you check the correct operation of your heat pump and other heating devices. Beyond their operation, you must make sure that the filters, the ducts and the ventilator are well maintained, in order to guarantee a better air quality. Here are some tips that will help you take care of your devices and extend their lifespan.
Why maintain your heat pump ?
A heat pump is a device that can be used as both a heater and an air conditioner. Some models can also provide hot water, however this system cannot work on its own, especially during our very cold Quebec winters. Another heating system must be installed in parallel which will take over and transfer the heat from one place to another. To maximize the performance of your heat pump, annual cleaning is necessary. You start the maintenance of your heat pump by cleaning the coil outside with the garden hose. We continue the maintenance with a filter change, usually installed upstream of the fan. The latter prevents wear because if the filter is clogged, it will block the flow of air at the risk of putting pressure on the fan motor and limiting its life. To do this, check that the air supply and return vents are well cleaned and that no furniture or carpets can block the air circulation. Some heat pump systems have an outside air intake. Make sure to clean the grill well on a regular basis to prevent the grill from clogging. You also need to check the ducts and make sure they are clean. All you need to do is remove the outlet grill and check if the duct is dirty or clean. Another important point to consider: check that the ice and snow on the roof of your house do not fall on the fan of your heat pump. In case it is exposed where the wind blows, you can build a windbreak wall, respecting the distances recommended by the manufacturer so that it remains sheltered.
What are the costs related to the maintenance of a heat pump ?
What you need to know when buying a heat pump is that it should be serviced on a regular basis, at least once a year. There are additional costs in the event that you need to modify the duct or increase the power of the electrical installation. Know that the operation and durability of your heat pump will depend on the maintenance you do annually. You must therefore plan an average budget of $ 100 per year to cover non-standard maintenance and repair costs.
At what time of the year should we do maintenance on our heat pump ?
Every year, you must have your heat pump inspected. Maintenance is usually done in the fall. But regular cleaning will help keep your heating and air conditioning system longer while ensuring good, efficient and optimal performance. In addition, it is recommended to change the one-inch filters every month. The 4 inch filters and the 6 inch filters can be changed twice a year. What you must remember. In summary, and to ensure proper maintenance of your heat pump, you will need to monitor: Filters, the control circuit, the condition of the compressors, the valve and the condenser fluid pressure reading. The pipes should be cleaned to reduce the amount of pollutants and other allergens in the air. The fans should be cleaned, lubricated and adjusted regularly.