Looking after your Heat Pump

Regular maintenance and cleanliness are vital for the efficient operation and longevity of your Heat Pump. While an annual service from our team is an excellent way to keep your Heat Pump running smoothly, there are some basic maintenance checks you can perform on your own.

Maintenance involves three key aspects:

• filters,
• the indoor unit
• outdoor unit:

Cleaning Heat Pump Filters: Your Heat Pump filters accumulate a significant amount of dust and debris as they filter the air circulating in your home. It’s important to clean these filters every few months. The process is relatively straightforward:

1. Refer to your Heat Pump manual for specific instructions, but generally, you can lift the front cover and slide out the filters (a step ladder may be needed if the indoor unit is mounted high on a wall).
2. Remove the filters and spray them with a kitchen or general-purpose cleaner. Do this in a bathroom or outdoors.
3. Rinse the filters thoroughly and repeat if necessary. Avoid using solvents or harsh cleaners.
4. Allow the filters to dry and then replace them in your Heat Pump.

Cleaning the Indoor Unit: While you have the filters removed, it’s a good opportunity to inspect and clean the indoor unit. Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate on the cylindrical fan vanes and Heat Pump vanes. Here’s how to clean them:

1. Use the upholstery brush on your vacuum cleaner to gently remove the dirt and dust.
2. Wipe the outer casing of your Heat Pump with a damp cloth that has a squirt of kitchen spray or a similar cleaner.

The frequency of filter cleaning depends on your usage:

• If you run your Heat Pump for most of the day, both for heating and cooling, clean the filters about four times a year.
• For those who use the Heat Pump for a few months or heating only, 1-2 cleanings a year are sufficient. Spring and autumn are good times to perform this maintenance.

Cleaning the Outdoor Unit: The outdoor unit also requires attention to ensure proper airflow and functionality:

1. Keep the outdoor unit clear of debris, leaves, and vegetation to maintain unobstructed airflow.
2. Regularly clear away leaves, twigs, snow, and avoid storing items in front of the air grilles.
3. Check the air grilles for any obstructions or dirt buildup. Wipe the outdoor unit casing with a damp cloth if necessary.

Additionally, inspect the air grilles for signs of corrosion, as rust can develop over time and impact the unit’s operation. If you notice rust on your outdoor unit’s fan grilles, contact us for further assistance.

Ideally, inspect your outdoor unit 1-2 times a year, typically in autumn and spring. However, if your outdoor unit is in a garden with many trees or vegetation nearby, keep a regular eye on it to maintain its optimal performance.

We also recommend a full annual service of your heat pump. Get in touch to book in today.

Posted in: Heat Pumps & Air Conditioning, Resources