Moderate winters and hot summers mean you rely on your Schertz, TX, heat pump for comfort. Maintenance ensures that the system is ready to deliver consistent comfort as efficiently as possible all year long. Use these three tips to keep up with regular heat pump maintenance between professional tune-ups from our certified technicians.
Check and Change the Air Filter
A well-maintained heat pump uses 10% to 25% less energy to heat or cool your home, explains the Department of Energy. One of the simplest yet most important things you can do in order to maintain the heat pump is to check the air filter once each month. If it’s dirty, replace it. At minimum, insert a new filter every two months. Clean air filters restore proper airflow, reduce heat pump wear and tear and improve your home’s indoor air quality.
Clean Supply and Return Registers
With each heating or cooling cycle, some dust, dirt and debris are deposited on your supply and return registers. Pet hair can also get stuck there. This buildup hinders airflow into your living areas. Each month, remove the register covers. Wipe them with warm, soapy water. Dry them with a clean microfiber cloth. Use the extension hose of your vacuum to extract visible dust and debris from the duct opening in the wall.
Wash and Tidy the Outdoor Unit
The heat pump’s outdoor unit houses the compressor. The unit includes a large fan, and it’s surrounded by metal fins and housing. Dirt, pollen, bird droppings and other debris land on the unit. This debris interferes with heat exchange. Once each month, turn off the unit. Use your garden hose to wash off the outdoor unit. Trim back any overgrown vegetation. Cut any tree branches within three feet of the unit.
To learn more about maintaining your heat pump, take a look at Barrett & Sons Inc’s heat pump services, or call us today for additional details.
