Investing in heat pump maintenance offers homeowners a big return for the investment. While a tune-up ensures the system is free of dirt buildup that hinders efficiency, it also promotes optimal system capacity for a comfortably cooled home, a need for fewer repairs and lower energy. The benefits of heat pump maintenance are undeniable, and routine maintenance is arguably the single most important step you can take to preserve your home comfort.

During a maintenance visit, your technician will perform the following tasks:

• Replace the air filter
• Check the outdoor and indoor coils to ensure efficient heat transfer
• Clean the system’s other components, like the fan blades, motor and compressor
• Check the heat pump’s refrigerant level, adjusting it to meet manufacturer recommendations
• Inspect the copper refrigerant lines for evidence of leaks
• Check the electric terminals, ensuring the connections are tight and the nonconductive coating is appropriate
• Test the controls to prevent the heating system from running when the system’s set to cooling mode, and vice versa
• Check the thermostat readings, calibrating the unit if necessary

You can boost the success of regular heat pump maintenance visits by engaging in a few maintenance tasks of your own over the summer:

• Check the air filter once a month. Normally, the filter’s surface is white. As it fills with dirt and allergens, it becomes brown. Replace the filter when the surface becomes dingy.
• Every so often, clean the area around the outdoor condensing unit. Leaves, pollen and grass clippings can access the condenser, blocking airflow and lowering efficiency.
• Keep an eye on the registers and grilles located throughout the home. They should remain clear of any blockages that can prevent the flow of conditioned air into the home. Keep them clear of furniture or other objects.

Get in touch with the experts at Smoky Mountain Heating & Air today to schedule heat pump maintenance, or to ask a question about home energy efficiency.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Asheville, North Carolina and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Image courtesy of Shutterstock