5 Tips for Making Your Heat Pump Last Longer in Durham, NC

Heat pumps are a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to heat and cool your residence in Durham, NC. However, like any other mechanical system, they require regular maintenance and care to ensure they function optimally and last as long as possible. Read on for some practical advice on how to make your heat pump last longer and operate at peak performance.

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is a critical aspect of keeping your heat pump in good working order and extending its lifespan. Having qualified HVAC technicians inspect your heat pump periodically helps ensure they detect and address potential problems before they become major issues. This not only prevents costly repairs, but it also improves the efficiency of your heat pump, allowing it to run more smoothly and use less energy.

Some heat pump manufacturers may require you to schedule regular maintenance services for your heat pump to keep the warranty valid. Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of the heat pump, allowing you to get the most out of your investment.

It’s best to have your heat pump inspected at least twice a year: shortly before summer and shortly before winter. That way, it’s less likely that your heat pump will malfunction during the time you need it most. Many HVAC companies offer maintenance plans with discounted rates so you can schedule appointments without worrying about individual fees.

2. Use Consistent Thermostat Settings

Setting your thermostat to a constant temperature and avoiding frequent changes is key to making your heat pump last longer. Maintaining a constant and average temperature for the whole house reduces the stress on your heat pump and prevents it from turning on and off frequently, which can strain the system and reduce its lifespan. Consider investing in a programmable thermostat to schedule temperatures so you don’t have to adjust your thermostat multiple times throughout the day.

3. Protect Your Unit From Elements and Dirt

Keeping the heat pump clean and protected from dirt, leaves, and the elements is another important factor in making it last longer. Clearing debris around the outdoor unit allows for proper airflow and helps prevent the unit from overworking. Additionally, installing a protective cover on the outdoor unit during the off-season can prevent damage from snow, rain, and other inclement weather.

4. Replace Air Filters Regularly

The filters in a heat pump play a crucial role in ensuring proper airflow and preventing dirt buildup in the unit. Over time, air filters become clogged with dirt, dust, and other particles, lowering the amount of air that your pump can circulate throughout your home.

This causes the unit to work harder to take in more air to maintain the desired temperature. The increased stress on the unit can result in damage and a shorter lifespan for the heat pump.

Check your air filter every month; if you can still see through it, you don’t need to replace it. Generally speaking, it’s best to replace your air filter every 90 days or so.

5. Use Your Unit Correctly

When you use a heat pump excessively or irresponsibly, it can exert pressure on the system and lead to its components’ deterioration. Using your heat pump correctly involves following the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations. This means you should be familiar with the intended usage capacity of the unit and avoid overloading or overusing it.

For instance, if the manufacturer advises against running the heat pump for prolonged periods at high temperatures, it’s best to avoid doing so. In addition, adhering to the recommended temperature settings provided by the manufacturer ensures the unit continues to operate efficiently and effectively for longer.

Contact Airmakers Heating & Cooling, LLC today if you require quality heating installation services. As a leading HVAC company, our goal is to provide clients with top-quality service and expert advice on extending the life of their HVAC systems.