As renewable energy solutions grow in popularity, so do heat pumps in UK homes. They provide a more efficient and environmentally friendly way to both heat and cool your living space.
Although they are known to be reliable and have a long service life, maintenance is of high significance to ensure they operate at maximum efficiency. This guide covers everything you need to know about maintaining your heat pump in 2024.
Understanding Heat Pumps
A heat pump is a device that transfers heat from one place to another, using a small amount of energy. It works on the principle of refrigeration but in reverse for heating. The system sometimes consists of an indoor unit (evaporator), an outdoor unit (condenser), and a compressor or some systems have all of the above fitted to one outdoor unit.
In heating mode, the heat pump extracts heat from the outside air, ground, or water, even in cold weather, and transfers it indoors. The liquid refrigerant inside the heat pump absorbs this external heat where it begins to evaporate.
Now in a gas form the refrigerant is compressed, raising its temperature further. The hot refrigerant then passes through a heat exchanger or an indoor coil, releasing the heat into the indoor space by means of fan coil or wet central heating system such as radiators or underfloor heating.
For cooling, the process is reversed, removing heat from indoors and releasing it outside. Heat pumps are efficient because they generate more energy than they use, making them an energy-efficient option for both heating and cooling.
Air Source Heat Pumps: Maintenance Tips
Air source heat pumps are very low maintenance appliances. That being said, a little bit of routine maintenance will go a long way toward keeping the system running efficiently and maximizing the lifespan of the equipment. Below is a list of key maintenance activities:
Filters and strainers: Clean the filters regularly to ensure minimum flow rate requirements are met. Failure to do this can lead to flow rate errors.
Coils and Fans: Coils and fans are to be cleaned at regular intervals to preclude the accumulation of dirt.
Air Flow: Ensure that the unit is clear from hindrance in and around it so that air can get to it.
Indoor fans (air to air): Clean the indoor fan units to ensure good air flow.
Fan Blades: Check and clean fan blades to prevent issues.
Electronics and Control Equipment: Ensure that electronic items function accordingly, check that the system is set up efficiently and effectively
For better installation and longevity of your heating system, hire a reputable MCS-certified air source heat pump installer. When the installation is done properly, it ensures optimal performance and durability
Ground source heat pumps maintenance tips
There usually will be very minimal need for maintenance with ground source heat pumps, being based on the principle of constant temperature from within the earth for cooling and heating.
Most ground source heat pumps in the UK operate similarly to a refrigerator in reverse and require minimal maintenance. However, an annual check by a qualified technician is essential to ensure the pump is functioning according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. If not, efficiency could drop by up to 25%, leading to higher energy bills.
Here’s what you need to keep an eye on:
Electronics and Control Equipment: Ensure that electronic items function accordingly, check that the system is set up efficiently and effectively.
Filters and strainers: Filters and strainers will be fitted to the heat pumps pipework. It is imperative to keep these clean to ensure that minimum flow rate requirements are met. Failure to keep these filters and strainers clean will lead to flow rate errros.
Anti-Freeze / Coolant Liquid: Chemical balance should be maintained correctly.
Heating Checks: Regularly check radiators and bleed the system as needed. Ensure there is 1 bar of pressure in the system.
With good care, ground source heat pumps can work perfectly for over 25 years to give a very sure and efficient solution for heating.
Heat Pumps Inspection
It would be wise to have a professional service your air source heat pump before the peak seasons, winter and summer. Areas to cover in a thorough inspection include:
- Checking internal components for leaks and checking their condition
- Checking filters, and coils for restrictions
- Measuring and verifying proper airflow and refrigerant levels.
- Inspect electrical contacts and system controls
- Checking any safety controls
- Checking water quality and antifreeze levels or checking antifreeze valves
Regular service by a professional can help prevent expensive repairs and maintain system efficiency.
Most heat pump systems are provided with a 5 to 10 year warranty on parts and labour, and some come with free yearly services. Many of these systems generally outlive their warranty periods when well maintained, running efficiently for up to 20 years.
Do-It-Yourself: Tips for Maintenance
Here are some DIY maintenance tips to help you keep your heat pump in peak performance:
- Foliage: Ensure plants and shrubs are kept away from the outdoor unit to ensure clear airflow. Consult the manufacturers instructions to check the recommended clearances.
- Evaporator restrictions: Check the evaporator at the back of the unit. Sometimes leaves and other debris can get stuck in the evaporator. Remove any such debris with a leaf blower to ensure air can be drawn through the evaporator effectively.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance of heat pumps is very key to their operating correctly. Neglect of routine upkeep can cause the efficiency level to decline, raise energy bills, and reduce the lifetime of the system. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and keep it under check on a regular basis so that your heat pump becomes a cost-effective addition to the climate control system in your home.
Follow these maintenance tips to enjoy a heat pump’s benefits for many years to come, with continued comfort and efficiency in your home.
