Heat pumps are among the most energy-efficient heating systems available today. If you happen to have one, there are some things you can do to get the most heating for your dollar. In this blog post, the HVAC contractors at HVAC Construction, Inc. discuss how to ensure heat pump efficiency this season.
Address Insulation Issues
Your heat pumps — and other types of HVAC systems for that matter — work hand-in-hand with the rooms that they’re heating. It helps to think of the room as a bucket of water and your HVAC system as a faucet. A leaky bucket will need a constantly-running faucet to keep it full. Likewise, a poorly-insulated home will need an HVAC running at full capacity to keep it warm during the winter season. Addressing insulation issues and heat leaks can help avoid wasted heat and reduce the workload on your heat pump. Some of the things that you can do are:
- Make sure that the exterior wall and attic insulation does not have gaps in it. An insulation professional may need to fill these gaps with cellulose or expanding foam insulation.
- Replace leaky windows with insulated ones. Look for replacement windows with a low U-value (or a high R-value) rating, or simply look for an ENERGY STAR® certification.
- Make sure all windows, doors, and skylights are caulked at the frames and have fully-intact weatherstripping. Reapply caulk and replace weatherstripping as necessary.
Keep an Eye Out for Refrigerant Leaks
HVAC systems use a substance called a refrigerant to produce cool air, or warm air when in heating mode. Since refrigerant is cycled between the indoor and outdoor units — hence the lines running between them — you must keep an eye out for signs of leaking refrigerant. Low refrigerant levels reduce the capability of the heat pump to transfer heat between indoor and outdoor spaces, so take it as a sign of a leak if your ductless heat pump isn’t providing enough heating. Schedule an appointment with your HVAC technician, as the refrigerant will need to be recharged after fixing the leak.
Clean the Air Filters
Air filters that are filled to capacity can block airflow in your HVAC system and affect its efficiency. Unlike central HVAC systems, ductless heat pumps have washable air filters, located under the hood of the indoor unit. Make it a point to inspect them monthly. If dirty, remove them from the indoor unit, rinse them, and let them air-dry before putting them back on.
Call HVAC Construction for Your HVAC Needs
HVAC Construction, Inc. is among the most trusted HVAC companies serving Salt Lake City and the surrounding communities in Utah. Learn more about the HVAC construction jobs that we can do for you by calling (801) 298-4822. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
