If you have a ductless HVAC system and want to make sure your system offers reliable warmth in the winter months, it’s important to take good care of your heat pump. Regular maintenance will prolong the life of your ductless system and ensure that it runs efficiently.
Below, learn about the importance of both at-home and professional maintenance and tips you can use now to keep your heat pump in the best possible condition.
Why Ductless Owners Need To Be Diligent About Heat Pump Maintenance
Keeping your heat pump well-maintained can not only make sure your home stays warm and comfortable in the winter, but it can also help prevent expensive repairs. A well-maintained heat pump will last longer, provide better heating and cooling, and cost less to operate.
For example, if the air filters are dirty, they can restrict airflow and cause the unit to work harder than necessary, leading to reduced efficiency and increased wear and tear on the system. Or, if there is not enough refrigerant in the system, it can prevent the heat pump from being able to properly transfer heat.
Cover & Elevate the Outdoor Condenser
If possible, cover your condenser to keep snow, ice, and debris from building up during inclement weather. Don’t use anything like a tarp, since this can block airflow and trap moisture inside. Instead, get a cover that’s specifically designed for your condenser unit, or put a small awning over the top of it. If you live in an area where it gets very cold, you may also want to invest in a condenser heater to keep the unit from freezing.
Another important consideration is to make sure that your condenser is elevated off the ground. This will help protect it from flooding in case of heavy rains or melting snow. You can do this by placing blocks or bricks under the legs or wheels of the unit. Just be sure that whatever you use is sturdy enough that it won’t collapse under the weight of the condenser.
Use the Defrost Setting On the Indoor Unit
As temperatures outside begin to drop, the moisture created by your heat pump can become ice, causing your condenser coils to become frosted over. This causes your system to not be able to work as effectively to heat your home and poses a danger to the longevity of your heat pump. If your unit remains covered in ice, it can start to work less efficiently and even become damaged in the process.
To prevent your system from freezing over, you can use the defrost setting on the indoor unit to melt any ice and drain the excess moisture away. Turn your defrost setting on and let it run for about 30 minutes several times throughout the winter heating season, depending on how cold it gets in your area.
If you notice that your heat pump is not working as efficiently as it used to, or if it seems to be overworking itself, be sure to check the outdoor unit for any ice or frost buildup and use your defrost setting to keep everything working smoothly.
Clean or Replace the Air Filter
Heat pump filters are easy to clean. Simply remove the reusable filters from your indoor unit and rinse them with warm water. If your filters are very dirty, you may need to soak them for a few minutes before or wash them gently with dish soap and a sponge before rinsing. Once your filter is clean, dry it off and reinstall it.
Have Your Heat Pump Professionally Maintained
It’s important to have your heat pump serviced by a professional at least once a year. This will help to ensure that it’s running efficiently and catch any potential problems early on.
If you’re not sure when the last time your heat pump was serviced, now is a good time to schedule an appointment. Your technician will check over every component of your ductless system for potential issues like leaks or dirt buildup, and will make any necessary repairs or part replacements.
Call New England Ductless For Winter Heat Pump Maintenance Help Today
At New England Ductless, we specialize in ductless heat pump maintenance and installation and offer a wide variety of reliable HVAC services that can help keep your heating system running smoothly and efficiently in the winter, when you need it most.
Call us today for help with your winter heat pump maintenance needs by dialing (781) 995-2665. Or, visit our Mattapan, MA office in person to learn more. Serving Boston and surrounding metropolitan areas, including Dedham, Quincy, Wellesley, Newton, Waltham, Cambridge, Somerville, Woburn, Salem, Beverly, Danvers, Gloucester, and more.
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