It is great to have the warm weather back after a hefty winter with hefty winter heating bills. Time to dig in and tackle your heat pump maintenance early to ensure your home is cool and comfortable as the summer starts to heat up.
Here’s a maintenance checklist to follow for your heat pump this spring:
- Clean or change the air filter at least once a month. A heat pump needs a free flow of air to function efficiently. A clogged filter can radically reduce the system’s efficiency and even shorten the heat pump’s useful life.
- Clean the outdoor unit. Autumn and winter winds can get the outdoor coils dirty and deposit leaf debris in and around the unit. Turn off the power, then use a hose to wash off the debris. (Do not use a power washer, as this can damage the fins). Remove leaves from around the unit, and make sure no vegetation is growing close.
- Clean the registers and vents in your home. This goes back to the need for clear airflow. Dust all these openings with a cloth or vacuum attachment. Straighten out any bent fins, and make sure there are no furniture or boxes blocking a vent or register.
- Verify your thermostat schedule. If you have a programmable thermostat, make sure its schedule is up to date. As spring comes, you may become more active outside the house and need the heat pump less while you’re away.
- Schedule an annual maintenance inspection. An HVAC professional will service the heat pump to ensure it’s running efficiently and that everything is in good working order. He will inspect the ductwork, blower and indoor coils for obstructions and verify adequate air low. Along with checking refrigerant levels, a tech will also inspect and repair electrical terminals as needed, lubricate the motor, check belts, and verify the thermostat is working properly.
By following this simple heat pump maintenance checklist, you can keep your home comfortable for the coming spring and summer. Learn more about heat pump inspections or schedule one by call Coastal Heating & Air at 410.919.0110 today.