5 Tips for Prepping Your Heat Pump for Heating Season

After the hurricanes and storms have cleared in Palm Harbor, FL, it’s time to prepare your heat pump for heating season. Beyond changing the mode, there are some critical steps to take to get the most from your system. Follow these five tips to help prevent mid-season breakdowns and preserve your system’s efficiency.

Clear Around Your Outside Unit

Start by clearing around your outdoor unit, aiming to keep at least two feet of clearance on the sides and five feet above it. Things to watch for include grass, weeds, branches, bushes and landscaping architecture.

Change the Filter in the Heat Pump

Your heat pump uses an air filter to keep contaminants out of the system and improve your indoor air quality. Allowing the filter to run clogged is one of the fastest ways to lead to excessive heat pump repairs.

Smaller 1- and 2-inch filters typically need replacing every 30 to 90 days. Larger filters may last several months or up to a year for 6-inch models. Be sure to use the type of filter intended for your specific system.

Open and Clear Supply Vents

Check that all of your supply vents are open and clear. Ideally, each vent should have at least six inches above and around it clear.

Adjust Your Thermostat

When it’s time to turn on the heating, be sure it’s set to heating mode and not heat/cool. That can cause the system to switch back and forth between heating and cooling. Also, don’t forget to adjust your temperature setting for the cooler months, typically between 68 and 70 degrees.

Schedule Heat Pump Maintenance

Heat pumps need routine maintenance to keep operating with efficiency. A service technician will inspect the inside coil, check the circulating fan, tighten electrical connections and conduct thorough testing.

Getting the most from your heat pump over the winter depends on preparing it properly. When followed, these tips help you avoid high energy bills and excessive repairs. Call to schedule your fall heat pump maintenance with the expert service technicians at Advanced Cooling Systems.

Image provided by iStock

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