A heat pump is an efficient piece of kit, but like any piece of equipment, it needs a bit of care to perform its best. Proper maintenance can help extend the life of your heat pump, keep it running efficiently, and prevent costly repairs. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and even breakdowns.
By staying on top of regular checks, cleaning, and servicing, you ensure your heat pump continues to provide reliable heating and hot water throughout the year.
While some aspects of heat pump maintenance should be left to professionals, there are a few simple tasks you can do yourself to keep your system in good condition.
1. Clear any debris
The outdoor unit is exposed to the elements and can get clogged with dirt, leaves, and debris. Keeping the area around the unit clean will help maintain good air flow which is essential for keeping your home warm.
2. Give it a clean
Just like anything outside the unit will occasionally need a bit of a clean. Just use warm water and a soft cloth to wipe off any grime build up.
3. Check for ice:
During colder months, check for ice buildup on the outdoor unit. If there’s excessive ice, it could affect the system’s efficiency and might signal a problem with the defrost cycle.
4. Check for obstructions
Heat pumps need good air flow both behind and in front of the unit. Avoid placing anything, like an outside sofa or chair, in front of the unit and check for build up of debris or weeds behind and to the side of the unit.
Whilst you can carry out the three tasks above yourself, it’s important to schedule a professional service once a year to ensure your heat pump remains in peak condition. It’s also a requirement to maintain your manufacturers warranty. A heating engineer will inspect, clean, and tune your system, identifying any potential problems before they turn into costly repairs.
During an annual service, a heating engineer will:
If your heat pump starts acting up, there are a few signs that you may need to call in a professional for repairs. Addressing these issues early can prevent larger problems down the road.
No, the unit shouldn’t be covered as it will reduce or stop air flow - resulting in no heating or hot water!
With regular maintenance, a heat pump can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. Annual servicing by a professional helps extend the system’s lifespan and ensures it runs efficiently.
If you notice excessive ice buildup on the outdoor unit, check that the system’s defrost cycle is working. If the ice persists, turn off the heat pump and call an engineer for help.
While you can perform basic tasks like cleaning away debris, professional servicing should be done annually to address more complex issues like refrigerant levels and electrical components.
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