If you've just moved into a home with a heat pump installed, you might be wondering what you should be doing to keep it in good working order. If you're lucky, you'll have been given the manufacturer's guide for your system. This will give you instructions about the preventative measures you can take to get a long life out of your heat pump system. If you don't have a copy of this, find the make and model of the system then contact the manufacturer to request a replacement. In the meantime, this guide will give you an idea of the maintenance that you'll need to carry out to keep your system ship shape.
The Vents
When you're setting out furniture and flooring in your new home, be sure not to block the system's vents and registers. Doing so can block the system's airflow -- prolonged inadequate airflow can lead to compressor damage.
The Filter and Coil
The filter and coil are crucial to your system's lifespan and performance. These should be checked and cleaned every month. A dirty filter and coil will cause airflow reduction throughout the system decreasing its performance efficiency. If left too long, a dirty coil and filter can result in airflow problems that lead to a damaged compressor. You'll need to follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to replace these items if need be. The instructions will also tell you how often you should vacuum or brush the coil. You can usually use a garden hose to clean the outdoor filter -- follow the manufacturer's guidance for this.
The Fan
The fan provides the airflow your system needs to operate correctly. This should be cleaned on a yearly basis. The manufacturer's guide should tell you whether you need to lubricate the motor, and if so, how often. While you're servicing this area, you should be looking at the fan speed to ensure that it is running properly. You'll also want to check pulley settings and look for loose belts. For direct drive fans, check the motor speeds too. These all contribute to the efficient performance of your system. Flaws in these areas will lead to poor performance.
The Ductwork
It is important to inspect and clean your ductwork regularly. You're looking for loose insulation that can impact on airflow as well as excessive dust buildup. You also need to check for any objects that might have found their way into the ductwork via the grilles. Foreign objects can cause obstructions in the airflow system, and by now you probably know that airflow issues can lead to compressor damage.
The manufacturer's instructions should guide you on how often cleaning should take place and how to do it -- cleaning is usually every 3 - 5 years. If you feel the cleaning job is too big, then duct cleaning companies exist that can do the work for you.
The Seasonal Checks
It is important to make checks to your system before summer and winter as these are the times that you'll need the system most. While you can do basic maintenance yourself, there are certain jobs that you'll want to hire a professional service company to do. These are the more complex checks such as looking at the refrigerant level and carrying out any electrical or mechanical alterations to the system.
Share19 May 2016
Hi, if you want to have a healthy and safe home or business, your electrics have to be in good order. That is why it helps to do a lot of research before hiring an electrician, and it is also a good idea to know a bit about the basics of electricity, home installation and related topics. Hi, my name is Tim. I am not an electrician, but I have worked closely with electricians in my job as a general contractor. I wanted to explore a bit more about what they do, and I also wanted to create a space full of tips and ideas for home and business owners. Please, explore this space and enjoy reading.
