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As we know, machines need regular maintenance to continue working. The same goes for the air source heat pump. To make your renewable energy heating system not show you tantrums and work smoothly, air source heat pump servicing is crucial.
Besides the annual service, keeping regular checks on the thermostat, refrigerant, and airflow also matters to maintain your heat pump system’s water pressure and performance.
This guide will explore how you can maintain your air source heat pump with regular service and when you need a heating engineer to do his job.
Do Air Source Heat Pumps Need Servicing?
Yes, one of the main reasons your heat pump requires service is the boiler warranty or guarantee is usually only valid if you do get professional servicing of your boiler at regular intervals, typically at least once a year.
The other reasons include better performance, increased lifespan, and no expensive repairs. Plus, your boiler will not break frequently due to moving parts or the heat pump not working efficiently. However, your heat pump needs to be serviced once a year.
Key Tasks for Air Source Heat Pump Service
You need to regularly service your heat pump to ensure performance and save on service costs later on. Here are the basic maintenance checks you need to get sorted for a better lifespan and to comply with the manufacturer’s instructions for warranty claims.
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1. Remove Any Obstructions
While using renewable heat with air-source heat pumps, you’ll need to keep the obstructions away from the outdoor unit.
Keep those bushes and tree branches at least 5 meters away from the system. Also, it must be installed away from the wall and make sure nothing stops the air from flowing freely.
2. Check the Condenser
Heat pump maintenance includes keeping a check on the condenser of your boiler as that’s the part responsible for the heat pump function.
So, it’s worth keeping an eye on. Make sure it’s working properly, the fan is not deformed and all the parts are intact. this will help you repair the issues before they become a major fault.
3. Clean the Unit
While this should go without saying we’ll insist you should keep it clean. an uncleaned unit can catch dampness, debris, and dust, which leads to most of the major heat pump problems needing frequent repair and reduces its lifespan.
Besides the external cleanliness, make sure your installer cleans the air filters frequently. These air filters prevent dust, dirt, and pollen from going into the heat pump. If it gets too dirty, it may lead to damage to the heat pump system and the compressor getting overheated.
4. Replace the Belts
Sometimes, a less efficient heat pump might be caused by loose or damaged heat pump belts. this is one of the most obvious causes. However, you should always consult a professional heat pump installer to make internal repairs.
5. Inspecting Indoor Coils
Indoor coils perform the role of removing cold air from inside the home and heating in winter. If they are not well-maintained, debris, dust, and dirt buildup can lead to heat pump repair and increased service costs. Looking after your heat pump indoor coils is equally important as overall servicing and maintenance.
6. Check Ducts Leakages
AIR ducts are responsible for circulating air throughout your home. If there are any leaks, the air pressure and the heat pump performance will drop. Leakage of the ducts will make it difficult for your new heat pump to perform better and reduce energy bills.
7. Check Electrical Wiring
You need to keep your electric wiring in check and well maintained. You should regularly check for damage signs and anything worn. If you do notice something, call your heating expert.
8. Inspect for Refrigerant Levels
Checking your refrigerant levels is essential for optimal heat pump performance. Low refrigerant levels can lead to poor heating and cooling efficiency, increased energy consumption, and potential system damage.
Unlike gas boilers, heat pumps are a low-maintenance option, but they do require professional inspection of refrigerant levels during annual servicing.
The cost to service your heat pump may vary depending on the type of issue found with the refrigerant system. Addressing refrigerant problems promptly can significantly reduce your energy use and extend your heat pump’s lifespan.
9. Check for Wear on Lubricating Components
Just like ground source heat pump servicing, your air source heat pump maintenance must include checking the lubricating components. The compressor and fan motors contain moving parts that require proper lubrication to function efficiently.
During this inspection, your heating expert will:
- Verify oil levels in the compressor
- Check that lubrication is reaching all necessary components
- Look for signs of oil leaks or contamination
- Ensure bearings are properly lubricated
This essential maintenance does a heat pump good by preventing friction and premature wear. Additional charges may apply if components need replacement, but this preventive approach helps you avoid costly repairs later. Many manufacturers require this check to maintain your heat pump warranty.
10. Moving Parts Check for Wear
Heat pumps are a low-maintenance heating option compared to traditional systems, but their moving parts still need regular inspection. The fan, motors, and compressor should be checked for signs of wear, unusual noises, or vibrations that might indicate developing problems.
Your MCS heating engineer will inspect these components during annual servicing to ensure your system remains eligible for the Renewable Heat Incentive. They’ll also check your unvented hot water system if it’s connected to your heat pump.
A thorough moving parts inspection includes:
- Examining fan blades for damage or deformation
- Checking motor bearings and bushings
- Testing the compressor for proper operation
- Inspecting valves and switches
- Checking the de-ice cycle functionality
To help maintain optimal performance between professional visits, you can clean external components with a soft brush and check filters every month. Remember that the internal unit should only be serviced by qualified professionals.
When to Call a Professional
While some basic maintenance such as cleaning filters and removing obstructions can be handled by homeowners, professional servicing is essential. How often do air source heat pumps need professional attention? At a minimum, arrange annual servicing, but consider more frequent checks if:
- Your energy bills unexpectedly increase
- The system struggles to reach set temperatures
- You notice unusual noises or vibrations
- The system frequently goes into de-ice mode
- Performance drops during extreme weather
Heat pump maintenance costs are typically offset by improved efficiency and longevity. Most qualified installers offer maintenance packages that include all necessary checks to ensure your system continues extracting energy from the ground or air efficiently.
Conclusion
Regular servicing of your air source heat pump is vital to maintain optimal performance, reduce energy consumption, and avoid expensive repairs. From checking refrigerant levels to inspecting moving parts, each maintenance task plays a crucial role in extending your system’s lifespan.
To organize your next heat pump service, contact a fully qualified heating engineer who specializes in renewable heating systems. Many companies offer a free quote for maintenance packages tailored to your specific system.
Remember that proper maintenance not only keeps your warranty valid but also ensures your renewable heating investment continues to deliver efficient, reliable comfort for many years to come.
By following the air source heat pump maintenance tips outlined in this guide and scheduling regular professional servicing, you can feel confident that your heat pump is working at its best, providing efficient heating while minimizing electric resistance backup usage and unnecessary energy consumption.
FAQs
For most of the heat pump brands, the air source heat pump requires servicing at least once a year. Otherwise, the warranty will no longer be valid and can not be claimed. This service includes a comprehensive examination of the system, refrigerant refill, and measuring the airflow through the system.
This depends on several varying factors like the cost of electricity, energy usage, and energy efficiency of the property and system. Heat pumps usually provide 4-5 COP energy for 1 unit of electricity consumed.
No, leaving your heat pump on all day is not cheaper at all. In fact, it leads to unnecessary energy usage and wastage. Instead, you should use smart heating control systems to ensure you are paying only for the energy you use, not for the wasted energy.
A temperature of 68°F to 72°F, which translates to 20°C to 22°C, is ideal for in the winter for a heat pump to make your home comfortable. This is ideal when you are home and awake. You can set the heating as per your desired setting as well.
