Proper Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pumps in Vancouver Homes

A heat pump is an electrical appliance that moves heat from one place to another and helps maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your home. Because it doesn't create heat—it simply transfers it—a heat pump uses less energy than other types of heating devices. This makes it a somewhat greener alternative.

It's a shame that some homeowners take this device for granted. Frequent and regular use of this appliance naturally takes its toll on its internal machinery and could result in a breakdown. A malfunctioning heat pump can bring you lots of problems, so you should know how to keep it in top shape. Here, then, are important maintenance tips for heat pumps in Vancouver homes.

Maintaining the outdoor unit

Since the outside unit is exposed to the elements, it can get pretty dirty. Trapped dirt and debris block the air flow of your unit, decreasing system performance and damaging your system's compressor. At least once a month, clean the unit of all dirt and dust that have accumulated in and around it, making sure not to miss the heat exchanging coil. A vacuum cleaner is highly recommended for this task, as it can access hard-to-reach places.

Cleaning of air filter

As with an air conditioning unit, proper maintenance of a heat pump air filter is paramount. The filter should be inspected and cleaned around once a month. A clogged air filter reduces the heat pump's efficiency by as much as fifty percent and causes several problems that might initially go undetected. Change filters every two months or as needed. Do not forget to inspect the ducts and vents as well, to ensure that there is no blockage in the pump.

Indoor unit maintenance

After cleaning your heat pump's air filter, and its ducts and vents, proceed to inspect the indoor unit. Check not only the controllers, but the thermostat temperature as well. The thermostat temperature should be lower than the room's temperature in order to get effective cooling or heating from your heat pump. Also, check the refrigerant level and make sure it is adequate. Leaked refrigerant combines with air to form an acid which could eat the heat pump’s compressor away.

As part of heat pump maintenance, you should get a professional technician to service your unit at least once a year. You can rely on experts like Milani for proper heating in Langley and Vancouver homes.

Keeping the Home Warm with Vancouver Heat Pumps

Keeping warm when the wintry cold starts is no joke, especially in Canada. Unless you want to run the health risks that accompany hypothermia, you shouldn't attempt to merely "deal" with the cold by toughing it out. While you could wear thicker clothing, seal your windows, have some hot cocoa and all that, with the hope of staying toasty, there's nothing quite like being warmed comfortably by a trusty heater, or bathing in a tub of steaming hot water.

Your home's heater has to be ready for use when the mercury plummets, so proper maintenance is definitely in order. A broken down heating system spells cold and bitter nights for you (don't say you weren't warned of pneumonia, either). To preserve the upkeep of your home's heating capability, you'll need professional Vancouver heat pumps service.

Of course, the first things you'll need to address are the possible leaks in your piping that could compromise the flow of heated air or water throughout the home. Not only will your system be rendered useless with a leak in it, but you could be throwing your money away, paying for energy you aren’t using. It's worthwhile to note that a repairman could fill these cracks and solve this problem easily.

Pipes aren't the only parts of a home's heating system, as even a simple furnace needs proper and occasional care. Broken furnaces not only perform worse, but can put your home in danger of catching fire—you certainly don't want to warm your home that way. Again, qualified professionals can handle most issues involving furnace repair in Vancouver. Engaging these services is money well spent since it redounds to cost-saving in energy, plus the added boon of safety.

Always turn to a trusted repair service based near your area of Vancouver, like Milani Plumbing Heating & Drainage, to handle all your heating-related repairs. You can't always be the handyman; and there surely are instances when the job is best left to the pros. A day's work of repair is often all it takes to restore your heating system to working, almost brand-new condition.

Winter can and has killed people, which is why heating is non-negotiable. Don't cheat yourself by skimping on your home heating; call a local repair service and get through the cold months in comfort.