It’s no secret that summertime in Arizona is brutally hot.
That’s why you need to make sure that your home has a heat pump capable of keeping the interior of your home as comfortable as possible throughout the year.
Fortunately, this article can help.
Residents of Scottsdale can keep their home heat pump in proper running condition by understanding some basic HVAC maintenance tips.
Here we look at the importance of caring for your heat pump system so that you won’t have to worry about potential problems during the heat of summer or the cold months of winter.
Keep reading to learn more.
Read the Owner’s Manual
Let’s start by discussing the importance of keeping your HVAC unit owners manual in a location where it can be easily referenced.
After all, many homeowners make the mistake of tossing it out after installation.
The owner’s manual contains a wealth of information specific to your home heat pump, including basic maintenance tips and the manufacturer’s contact information.
This information will help the unit run more efficiently and reduce the risk of premature mechanical failure.
If you no longer have the physical copy, you can likely visit the manufacturers website and look for digital version online.
Change Your HVAC Air Filter
One of the best things you can do to keep your heat pump system running properly is to change your air filter.
This doesn’t mean only changing the air filter once or twice a year.
In fact, you should get in the habit of changing it every 4 to 6 weeks.
Keep in mind that your HVAC air filter is responsible for reducing the amount of dirt, dust, and other types of debris that enter your home.
When an air filter becomes clogged with dirt, it will prevent your HVAC unit from operating efficiently and will significantly impact the air quality inside your living space.
Fortunately, new air filters can be purchased at any local hardware store, are very affordable, and easy to replace.
In fact, the replacement process takes less than a minute.
Keep It Clean
It’s also extremely important to keep your heat pump system as clean as possible.
This includes making sure the outdoor unit remains free of leaves, tree branches, and other types of debris that will interfere with proper airflow.
Debris can also damage the unit and keep it from heating a home as intended.
The best strategy is to inspect your outdoor HVAC unit at least once a week to make sure nothing has fallen on or around the unit.
Keeping it clean is an essential part of HVAC maintenance and will help the unit last for many years.
Keep in mind that keeping your heating/cooling system clean only takes a few minutes, requires no tools and no training, and is totally free of charge.
And it can make all the difference in the world.
Replace Your Thermostat
Now let’s talk about your thermostat.
After all, the thermostat inside your home is actually the brain of your heat pump system.
This is the device that allows you to set the desired temperature so that your home will remain comfortable.
Unfortunately, thermostats don’t last forever.
When they stop working properly, it not only affects the temperature inside your home but can also have a significant impact on your monthly energy bill.
The good news is, upgrading your old thermostat to a new programmable model will provide you with more temperature control options.
For example, you can program a smart thermostat to different temperatures for when you’re home or at work so that the unit isn’t constantly running throughout the day and night.
A smart thermostat is a relatively inexpensive purchase and it will end up paying for itself in the long run.
Make Sure Your Air Registers are Open
Another important yet simple HVAC maintenance tip is to make sure the air registers in your home are open in the rooms where you spend most of your time.
Keep in mind that when a register is closed, it won’t be able to deliver the warm or cool air from the heating/cooling unit.
It’s not necessary to open air registers in unused rooms.
The best strategy is to close the registers in the rooms and keep those doors closed so that you aren’t paying to heat or cool those areas of your home.
This will make it less expensive to maintain a comfortable temperature in the rest of the living environment.
Listen for Unusual Noises
The extreme temperatures in Scottsdale can quickly take a toll on your heat pump system.
The symptoms of a damaged heating/cooling unit can take several forms, including strange noises.
That’s why it’s so important to stay alert and listen for any noises coming from your HVAC that might be troublesome.
When you notice sounds that aren’t normal, contact an HVAC specialist right away to schedule a service call.
Pay Attention to Bad Smells
You might also notice strange smells that can alert you to HVAC maintenance problems.
Again, in these situations it’s important to contact your local heating/cooling professional sooner rather than later so they can diagnose the issue and suggest a solution.
Pay Attention to Your Monthly Energy Bills
Have you noticed an increase in your monthly energy bill?
Many people make the mistake of simply paying their bill without studying their energy usage.
A dramatic increase in the cost of heating or cooling your home is a sure sign that it’s time to have your HVAC unit serviced.
Have Your HVAC Unit Serviced Bi-Annually
The best strategy for keeping your HVAC unit running properly is to have it professionally serviced at least twice a year.
It’s ideal if you can have one maintenance service in the spring and another in the fall to prepare for the shift in weather.
This type of preventative HVAC maintenance is the best way to get ahead of small problems before they require expensive repairs down the line.
A Homeowner’s Guide to Heat Pump Maintenance
Regardless of the season or what Mother Nature throws at you, there’s no denying the need to keep your family comfortable.
Fortunately, these tips for heat pump maintenance will keep everyone happy no matter how hot or cold it gets outside.
Please contact us today to schedule a service call with one of your HVAC maintenance specialists in Scottsdale.
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Fall is almost here! If you need a reputable HVAC servicer to help you with routine heat pump maintenance ahead of the cooler weather, look no further than Scottsdale Air Heating & Cooling. We are a top Scottsdale air conditioner and heat pump repair service company, and have been helping homeowners keep their HVAC units running at peak performance for over 75 years! Call 480-945-7200 or request service online! …*Yes, We DO offer Financing Options.
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