With Oklahoma’s fall and winter months approaching, preventive maintenance and inspection of your home’s heat pump system will help avoid expensive repairs in the cold season ahead. You'll also enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your system is working at optimum efficiency, thereby saving you money. Here are a few do-it-yourself steps you can perform to ensure long-term efficiency:
Begin the inspection and cleaning of your heat pump by switching off power to both your inside and outdoor systems. The inspection and cleaning of your heat pump are the only times power should be shut off.
Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature; regulating the temperature helps your heat pump perform the most efficiently.
Clean or replace your air filters once every one to three months.
Drain the condensate pan and clean the trap once every one to three months.
If your system’s indoor coils are accessible, check them every month and clean when necessary.
To achieve peak airflow from your air registers, make sure they are not blocked by furniture or other objects.
Check and clean the area in and around your heat pump’s outdoor system, keeping the area clear of leaves, grass clippings and other debris.
If you notice unusual sounds emanating from your heat pump, it isn’t performing to your expectation or you are not confident in performing the above steps, call your heat pump contractor for further inspection. In fact, professional heat pump maintenance should be performed annually. This annual service should include:
Lubrication of motors
Belt check for tension and proper operation
Thermostat testing
Inspection of ducts for leakage and airflow
Change of filters
Cleansing of blower and coils
Inspection of the refrigerant charge
Tightening of electrical terminal connections and the application of non-conductive coatings, if necessary
If you need heat pump maintenance in the Broken Arrow and Tulsa metro area, our NATE-certified technicians are always ready to help. For an expert consultation, contact Air Assurancetoday.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today! Photo courtesy ofShutterstock.