Forget to Schedule Heat Pump Maintenance? Do It Now
Forget to Schedule Heat Pump Maintenance? Do It Now
Did you forget to schedule an inspection and maintenance appointment for the heat pump in your home this fall? It's not too late. The U.S. Department of Energy states that poorly maintained heat pumps expend up 25 percent more energy to maintain a home's desired thermostat settings. In addition to energy savings, homeowners who observe a routine heat pump maintenance schedule also benefit from reduced repair bills, fewer breakdowns and malfunctions, and an extended heat pump life span.
What Happens During a Heat Pump Maintenance Appointment?
While it's true that some of the items on your HVAC technicians checklist are DIY tasks, such as changing the filters and keeping the unit clean, others require attention from a licensed professional. These items include:- Verifying your thermostat settings and calibrating the thermostat if necessary
- Making sure the system cycles on and off appropriately
- Inspecting mechanical parts for wear and tear and making necessary repairs
- Lubricating all moving parts to reduce wear and tear
- Checking to make sure electrical connections are solid, and replacing any wires that are damaged or worn
- Inspecting the blower, ducts, vents and coils for dirt or debris and cleaning them
- Verify that the electric control locks out cooling when heat is required and vice versa
- Check for refrigerant leaks and recharging refrigerant if needed
Why Is Heat Pump Maintenance So Important?
There are several reasons why annual heat pump maintenance is important.- Reduce energy bills - A 10- to 25-percent reduction in energy consumption translates to an equivalent savings on utility bills. In the southeast, where the HVAC system is used year-round, this can mean saving hundreds of dollars per year.
- Improve indoor comfort - An inefficient and poorly-maintained heat pump will contribute to inconsistent air flow, which can lead to uncomfortable temperature fluctuations from room to room. It will also compromise your indoor air quality.
- Protect your warranty - These days, manufacturers are requiring that routine equipment maintenance be performed by a licensed HVAC technician or the warranty may be voided.
