A heat pump requires regular but relatively simple maintenance to keep it operating efficiently. Since it provides both heating and cooling, it’s typically used year-round, making routine maintenance especially important.
Monthly
- Check and clean or replace the air filter.
- Make sure indoor air vents are open and unobstructed.
Every Season
- Remove leaves, grass, snow, and debris from around the outdoor unit.
- Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit for proper airflow.
- Check the outdoor coil for dirt or damage.
Once a Year
Have a licensed HVAC technician perform a professional inspection, which typically includes:
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Inspecting electrical connections
- Cleaning indoor and outdoor coils
- Testing the thermostat
- Lubricating moving parts (if applicable)
- Inspecting the condensate drain
- Measuring airflow and system performance
Winter Maintenance
- Keep snow and ice from blocking the outdoor unit.
- Don’t chip ice off with sharp tools, as this can damage the coil.
- During cold weather, the unit may periodically enter defrost mode. This is normal and helps remove frost from the outdoor coil.