Heat Pump Maintenance Checklist: What’s Included?

As a resident of South Carolina, you know the weather changes quickly. Especially from autumn to spring, daytime temperatures have a 30-degree difference from night temperatures. Your HVAC system works hard to handle these changes to keep your family comfortable.

When you make time for basic heat pump maintenance, you protect your power bill and your family’s comfort during the extreme changes cold weather brings. Smooth Sailing Heating & Cooling offers the following heat pump maintenance checklist to help you gauge its performance. If you run into an issue that requires a professional, book our heat pump repair services in Boiling Springs, SC, at (864) 804-6400. 

#1 - Air Filters

When you refresh your air filter, you ensure your heat pump’s longevity and energy efficiency. Air filters collect dust, debris, and pollutants from your home as air cycles through. Over time, that debris clogs your filter, forcing your heat pump to work harder. 

You should change your air filter every 90 days or as instructed on the filter packaging. You’ll maintain an affordable energy bill, improve your heat pump’s function, and keep your home free of pollutants. Set a notification on your mobile device’s calendar to help you remember.   

#2 - Outdoor Unit

Once a month, perform a basic check on your outdoor unit. Sometimes, debris like leaves, branches, or cut grass collects around the outside. Nearby hedges may also grow and cover up the unit as a result. 

Your outdoor unit contains several parts pertinent to your heat pump’s performance. By clearing out any debris and keeping any decorative hedges trimmed away, your outdoor unit will operate more safely and efficiently. 

#3 - Outdoor and Indoor Coils

Your heat pump system contains two coils: indoor and outdoor. The outdoor condenser coils convert gaseous refrigerant to a liquid state. Following the directions given by the manufacturer, you can occasionally clean the condenser coils by removing dirt and debris.

You will typically find your indoor coil inside your air conditioning system. Common problems with indoor coils include dust and debris hindering their performance or freezing up. If you notice any of these issues, get in touch with local heating and cooling experts. 

#4 - Air Vents

Also known as supply registers and return grills, your vents should stay clear of dust, debris, and other obstacles. They function by pulling air in and blowing it out at certain points throughout your home. Like many HVAC parts, a periodic cleaning works wonders for your heat pump’s function.

Add air vent cleaning to your heat pump maintenance checklist. Most vents require two methods for easy removal. If you notice screws keeping them in place, use a matching screwdriver to remove them. Many others have small levers. Pull the levers away from the vent to remove and clean the inside. 

#5 - Condensate Drain

The condensate drain filters condensation out of your system. Condensation occurs when humidity in the air turns into a liquid. The condensate drain prevents moisture from staying in your home. As a result, the air you breathe stays free of mold and other organisms that thrive in humid environments. 

Check your condensate drain for any leaks or obstacles that prevent drainage. Remove any debris you notice during your inspection. If you see a leak, contact our licensed and insured contractors to mend fractures or replace broken piping. 

#6 - Scheduled Maintenance

Include maintenance checks from HVAC professionals at least once a year. While most people can manage some basic cleaning and repairs, only experienced contractors have the training to handle more technical tasks. They’ll make a note of any issues you might miss.

An HVAC repair person will also check your electrical connections to ensure your system sends all the right messages. If you notice anything off with your heat pump, like strange noises or bad smells, inform your HVAC service provider during the scheduled maintenance check. 

When big problems continue with no repair, your heat pump works harder. As a result, your energy bills increase while your heat pump’s longevity decreases. Reputable AC maintenance services address such issues before they become big hassles. 

Call Us for 5-star HVAC Service in South Carolina

At Smooth Sailing, we provide 5-star services to the Boiling Springs area and beyond. When you complete your heat pump maintenance checklist with a visit from us, you get only the best for your home. Ready to book your scheduled maintenance check or tackle a bigger problem? Call us today at (864) 804-6400.