Views: 393 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2021-04-23 Origin: Site
Heat pumps are a modern convenience. By drawing the air from outside, it heats or cools it as it disperses the air into the room. With them, we can keep our rooms warm during cold weather or cool during hot weather. Some multifunction air to water heat pumps even provide hot water as needed.
But as it performs this seemingly simple but excessively complicated task, dust and debris begin to accumulate within it. This will lead to the heat pump using more energy - driving up the electricity bill -- and suffering performance-wise. That is why knowing how to clean your heat pump is essential. Indeed cleaning your heat pump should be part of your general cleaning regimen.
In this article, we'll learn step-by-step how to clean your heat pump system and get the most out of the unit as possible:
Before you go about actually cleaning the unit, there are a few things you have to account for to secure your own safety and that of the unit.
Ensure that the unit is turned off and unplugged. The power supply is usually located on the outdoor unit though not always. If you are having a hard time locating the power source of the heat pump, contact the company that installed it.
It would be a good idea to wear some protective gear - mainly masks, gloves, and maybe goggles. This will prevent you from inhaling any dust or from getting dust in your eyes.
Also, read up on the unit's user manual to learn about any features specific to the unit alone.
You're going to need a ladder if the heat pump is too high up out of reach. Most heat pump lids open with a gentle tug. The hinges should pull out with ease.
Other models though might require some unscrewing - either using a screw or by simply twisting a cap. If you have trouble locating the screws, consult the user manual or call the company that installed the unit.
The air filters are important components in purifying the air coming into your space. They strain out things like dirt, dust, and pollen. In time though, there tends to accumulate, making it harder for the air to pass through.
Taking them out is easy - simply lift the air filters up and out of the unit. There's usually a little tab on the front. Some models though have filters that slide in and out through a slot on the bottom or side of the unit.
You can proceed to clean the filters using a vacuum specially fitted for soft, delicate material. You may also wash the dirt away delicately with water. If you use the latter method, be sure to let the filters have enough time to dry but not under direct sunlight.
When cleaning the coils of your heat pump there are a few things you'll need to do:
Vacuum the coils lightly first to get rid of the debris that's easy to dislodge. BE careful not to vacuum too vigorously though as you must take care not to damage the coils.
Spray the coils with a little antibacterial formula, or simple soap and water, and wipe down with a soft piece of cloth.
Let the unit enough time to dry completely
Make sure to be gentle when cleaning the coils and wipe up and down - following the grain of the coils and never against it. The coils are fragile and can be bent under little pressure.
Use first a vacuum then a pressure washer to clean the outdoor unit of the heat pump.
Slide the filters up the slots holding the tabs on the bottom. Make sure that it aligns with the slots and covers the coils completely. Never return the filters if they are still wet. Be careful not to damage the mesh.
Many newer models of heat pumps will not start unless the lid is closed properly. Close the lid by drawing them down and pushing them in until you hear and feel a click.
Also, make sure no obstructions are preventing it from closing securely.
Maximum Heat Transfer. Clean units work more efficiently in warming up the room faster. With there being less obstruction in the filter and coil, they can go about their business faster and easier. You'll be extra thankful for your clean heat pumps during the winter months or cold weather.
System Longevity. With keeping the unit clean regularly, it grows less susceptible to rust and breaking. This means it lasts longer which saves you much more money instead of buying a new unit every year or so.
Energy Efficiency. Clean units transfer heat much more efficiently. The less strain that clean units undergo means they consume less energy - all this means they cost less in the electric bill. Less energy consumption is good for the environment too.
Improves Air Quality Indoors. A clean unit can filter the air better. With that, it ensures the air entering the house is clean and debris-free. This is especially beneficial for people with concerns over air breathability.
Be sure to clean your unit seasonally or every 3 months. Doing so can save you from a world of expense and hardship. It would be great to also clean other features specific to the unit too such as the fan and the heat exchanger.
Cleaning regularly also prevents mold from setting in and other such complications resulting from moisture build-up.
If cleaning the heat pump is a bit too daunting, always refer to the user manual or call a professional. All that being said though, we certainly hope that this article is of help in getting you to clean your heat pump yourself.
Also of Interest:
| Image | Product Name |
|---|---|
 | R410A Icefield-M Series - 16-26KW A+++ DC Inverter Monoblock Air Source Heat Pump |
 | R410A Icefield-M Series - 9.5KW A+++ DC Inverter Air to Water Heat Pump - Monoblock Type |
 | R410A Icefield-S Series - 9.6KW EVI DC Inverter Split Air Source Heat Pump |
 | R410A Icefield-S Series - 16-18KW EVI DC Inverter Air to Water Low Temp Heat Pump - Split Type |
