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Almost every homeowner in the U.S uses or is familiar with heat pump systems. It is an essential buy for having a comfortable home, in all weather conditions. However, while purchasing one, it is essential to know how to maintain it and how long it will last.
What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a device that uses electricity to transfer thermal energy from the heat source to the heat sink. The critical components of a heat pump are:
- Condenser
- Expansion valve
- Evaporator
Heat pumps are an energy-efficient alternative to air conditioners and furnaces as they accomplish the task of keeping our houses warm in winters and cool in summers. They consume only a fraction of the energy consumed by traditional heating and cooling appliances.
What Are the Different Types of Heat Pumps?
There are three different types of heat pumps:
- Air to air
- Water source
- Geothermal
These pumps work by absorbing heat from your surroundings and concentrating it inside the installed area. The most commonly used are air-to-air heat pumps. They transfer heat from outside air to your house.
What Are the Factors on Which the Life Expectancy of a Heat Pump Depends?
Several aspects that decide the life expectancy of a heat pump are:
- Type of heat pump
- Quality of heat pump
- Installation of heat pump
- Heat pump location
- Frequency of voltage fluctuations.
Apart from these, another critical factor is the maintenance of heat pumps. A well-maintained heat pump can easily last for over 25 years. On the other hand, a poorly maintained heat pump may give up within a decade. Hence, to make our heat pump last longer, it is imperative to keep it well-maintained.
Some Typical Performance Issues with a Heat Pump
Due to improper installation or repeated use over the years, one might start experiencing several performance issues with heat pumps. The most common problem is low airflow leading to a premature heat pump replacement. Additionally, other typical performance issues are leaky ducts and refrigerant charge.
Tips for Increasing the Life Expectancy of a Heat Pump
Some key points to remember and follow for the upkeep of a heat pump to increase its lifespan are the following:
- Do not keep or grow plants within 18 square inches of the heat pump’s outdoor unit.
- Regularly clean the coil of your heat pump, or you might have to get it replaced every few years.
- Depending upon the brand, the heat pumps require regular cleaning and replacement of air filters. Not doing so may result in a reduction of the airflow of the heat pump.
- Keep the fins of the outside container neat and clean. Avoid allowing the collection of dust on the fins.
- Keep a periodic check on the defrost cycle of the heat pump. If the defrost cycle is not working correctly, ice can accumulate on the outdoor coil, which may impair the heat pump’s ability to provide heat.
- Frequent voltage fluctuations can damage the heat pump. If your house experiences voltage fluctuations frequently, installing a voltage stabilizer will be a smart idea.
How to Get the Perfect Installation and Repair of Heat Pumps?
Negligent installation and repair of a heat pump can severely impair its performance and reduce its lifespan. Hence, it is in your best interests to trust our experts for heat pump installation and repairs.
AVS Heating & Air Conditioning is known for its industry-leading quality of work and dedication to excellence for heat pump-related services. You can call us any time at (703) 457-9028 in Virginia or (301) 686-7129 in Maryland to get your queries resolved.
