A heat pump is arguably the most energy-efficient HVAC system you can buy these days. Instead of generating heat, it only moves it from one place to another, meaning, it only consumes a fragment of the energy consumption of a furnace or a boiler. However, there are right and wrong ways of operating your heat pump, and in this article, we have come up with several tips you can follow. These suggestions will help your heat pump work as effortlessly as possible.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your friendly HVAC company in Elk River MN. We have been helping homeowners establish comfortable, energy-efficient homes by providing superb HVAC products and services.
Here are some heat pump usage tips you may want to consider.
Setting the Temperature
In terms of reading the temperature of a room, a heat pump works differently compared to your old heating system, i.e., a furnace. So, set your heat pump to a comfortable temperature and make precise adjustments over a few days until you’ve reached your desired setting.
Perhaps your old heating system required you to lower the temperature at night. That isn’t the case for a heat pump. It is most efficient when a set temperature is maintained. Therefore, simply find your preferred temperature and let the system do its magic!
To save energy, lower the temperature a few degrees overnight or when you’re away for several hours. Some heat pumps are equipped with programmable thermostats that can automatically make adjustments without relying on additional heating systems.
Typically, the backup heating unit automatically starts when the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. To increase your system’s efficiency, set the thermostat to 68 to 70 degrees during the cold season and 78 to 80 during summer. This will enable your thermostat to work without triggering the automatic start of the backup heating system.
Filter Management
Just like any other HVAC system, managing your filter is essential to your heat pump’s overall performance. When your unit circulates air, it collects dirt and filth, the air filter collects the contaminants. When the it gets clogged, airflow is restricted, causing the system to work harder than usual.
Therefore, if your heat pump runs continuously, be sure to keep the filter clean to avoid airflow obstruction. To do this, simply detach the filter from the unit, use a vacuum cleaner or a fine brush to eliminate the dirt. Doing this process at least once every 30 days will keep your heat pump in great shape.
Minimizing Heat Loss
Running HVAC systems can be costly, especially if you’re not taking the necessary steps to conserve energy. When running your heat pump, keep your doors and windows closed to prevent any drafts and keep the heat in. During the day, leave the curtains open while the windows are closed in rooms that receive direct sunlight. This will help the heat pump warm up the room more easily.
Getting Familiar with Different Modes
A heat pump isn’t a one-size-fits-all system, so, you have to familiarize yourself with the different modes to determine what works best for your needs. As much as possible, steer clear from the auto mode. Instead, go for the heating mode. Why? Because when the system is in auto mode, the unit tries to switch between heating and cooling modes as the temperature changes. This mode causes the system to use more energy than it has to, meaning, it’s not an efficient way of using your heat pump.
Restart Method
In case of a power interruption of more than 30 minutes, you will need to manually restart the system. While the power is still out, you can use the heat pump’s emergency heat. When the power comes back on, wait for about an hour before programming the heat pump to its normal setting. The refrigerant may need to heat up first before turning the unit back to a normal setting.
Keep Your Heat Pump in Tip-Top Shape
Using your heat pump properly is one way to get the most out of it, but if you want your system to last for years, call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. Our certified technicians will clean your heat pump, detect issues, check the refrigerant charge, and do what’s necessary to keep it in great condition. We are your reputable Ramsey heating and air conditioning company.