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Do Heat Pumps Need Maintenance?

The simple answer to this question is yes. Ideally, maintenance will be scheduled for your heat pump bi-annually (for both the heating and cooling seasons), but if you can’t schedule bi-annual maintenance, maintenance should be scheduled annually. While we are still in the cooling season, and your heat pump continues to provide air conditioning for your home, fall is just about here, and in a few weeks, you’ll be switching from AC to heating. Unlike an air conditioning system, your heat pump runs year-round, which is one of the many reasons it needs to be maintained. Heat pumps are complex devices, so it’s important to schedule maintenance with trained professionals, like the ones from JW Heating & Air.

Why Schedule Routine Maintenance?

There are several important reasons to schedule maintenance for your heat pump:

  • Energy efficiency – a heat pump that is not well-maintained can decrease its energy usage 10-25%.
  • Maintain healthy air flow – dirty fans, coils and filters can reduce the air flow in your system; this can decrease your system’s performance and cause system-wide problems.
  • Extend the life of your heat pump – a stressed system can age prematurely, leading to malfunction and break down. With maintenance, you can keep your heat pump running optimally.
  • Prevent repairs – during a regular maintenance appointment, your heat pump is thoroughly inspected and any existing or developing problems can be detected. This helps prevent small problems from turning into big ones.

What Happens During a Heat Pump Maintenance Appointment?

Here is an overview of what to expect from a maintenance appointment:

  • Inspection and cleaning of blower and indoor coils for dirt and debris
  • Check for refrigerant leaks, measure the refrigerant charge and adjust if needed
  • Check belts for wear and tighten loose belts
  • Clean and tighten electrical connections
  • Check on the electrical controls to ensure heat is locked out when thermostat is set for cooling and reverse
  • Measure for optimum airflow to the unit
  • Lubrication of moving parts to prevent friction
  • Inspect and adjust the thermostat for accuracy

Your air conditioning is dependent on having a working heat pump. Help avoid repairs and keep your heat pump running optimally by scheduling AC maintenance in Glendale with a professional from JW Heating & Air.