Did you just install a brand-new heat pump? Perhaps you have an older unit, similar to a trusty but finicky old car. Regardless of age, you can protect its performance with consistent maintenance. But how often does a heat pump need to be serviced? Should you change the frequency over time?
Cooper’s Plumbing & Air specializes in heat pump repair in Tallahassee, FL. Our team knows that maintenance makes a difference. We’ll explain the ideal maintenance frequency and when to switch it up below.
How Often Does a Heat Pump Need To Be Serviced?
Ideally, you should schedule a tune-up at least once a year. While this is a good rule of thumb, you might increase the frequency as your heat pump ages. How might your heat pump maintenance schedule change over the years? Let’s explore the professional recommendations below.
Let’s Start With Your New Heat Pump
New heat pumps, if installed professionally by reputable HVAC technicians, should have no problems for years but still need annual tune-ups. You can also check your warranty to determine what the manufacturer requires to honor potential cover needs in the future. Some warranties might require a routine heat pump inspection.
The inspection might not reveal any issues for years since the equipment is new; however, because you honored the warranty, you can likely cover any surprise repairs.
What About Heat Pumps Older Than Seven Years?
Most heat pumps last up to 15 years, although some may last much longer. So, how often does a heat pump need to be serviced when it reaches the halfway point of its lifespan? At this point, your HVAC service frequency should increase to twice a year.
As any HVAC system ages, its components gradually wear down and require more attention or even replacement. Letting concerns, like noises, smells, or underperformance, continue accelerates the wear and tear. Plus, your heat pump works hard year-round to cool and warm your home or business.
So, twice-annual maintenance services ensure the pump can weather hot and cool seasons in Tallahassee, Florida. Your technician can identify and solve problems before they worsen.
How About Older Heat Pumps?
As your heat pump turns ten, its preventive maintenance timeline might shift. Discuss your system’s needs with your technician. They may recommend that you stick with twice-annual tune-ups or increase the frequency to three times a year:
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Early spring
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Early autumn
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An additional one between these main tune-ups
Remember, consistent maintenance often prolongs the system’s lifespan. So, if you’ve adhered to your warranty’s requirements and listened to your technician, you might just stick with the twice-yearly routine.
Don’t Forget DIY Maintenance Frequency
Property owners should also know a little about maintaining heat pumps, so they can keep up with performance changes and symptoms that might indicate a hidden issue. They can also tackle some simple tasks that will protect their equipment between professional visits.
How often does a heat pump need to be serviced by the property owner? Cooper’s Plumbing & Air suggests checking on your heat pump every quarter. We’ll dive into what you should do below.
Take Tips From Our DIY Maintenance Guide
While your DIY maintenance doesn’t replace professional services, those efforts improve energy efficiency upkeep and heat pump longevity. Add the following checklist to your household to-do list every three months:
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Inspect the outdoor equipment and vent openings for any noticeable changes.
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Change the air filters to prevent excessive airflow resistance.
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Remove and rinse vent grates to eliminate dust.
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Vacuum duct openings to keep the network cleaner.
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Keep the outdoor unit free of organic debris and stored belongings.
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Move items that may block the duct openings, like furniture.
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Check the thermostat for ample battery power and responsiveness.
These actions seem insignificant but can make a big difference in the long term. When you inspect, use your five senses to inventory any new changes. Report those changes to your HVAC company to learn whether they should service the heat pump or leave it.
What Happens During Annual Maintenance?
Now, what does a professional heat pump tune-up involve? The average annual system check (or recommended frequency) usually includes:
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A thorough inspection with a keen, professional eye
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Removing and cleaning dusty components, like coils
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Initiating a defrost cycle as needed
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Checking and topping off refrigerant levels
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Ensuring the wires are firmly connected
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Flushing and rinsing the drain lines
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Detecting leaks in your duct network
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Lubricating and adjusting misaligned bearings
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Checking and replacing the belt if needed
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Calibrating the thermostat
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A final system test to ensure everything works harmoniously
How often does a heat pump need to be serviced in this way? At least once a year, but your warranty requirements and recommendations based on system age and performance might influence the frequency.
How Does It All Benefit You?
The perks are well worth the effort in the end. Quarterly DIY maintenance and annual professional tune-ups are a powerful combination that ultimately saves money by:
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Keeping energy usage to a minimum. Your utility bills will likely remain predictable for easy budgeting.
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Reducing the likelihood that you’ll need repairs. Don’t let surprise expenses ruin your monthly budget, no matter how minor.
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Stopping heat pump emergencies. Protect your comfort during all seasons.
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Prolonging system lifespan. Get the longest and best performance from your equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have any questions? Explore some common maintenance queries below.
How Many Years Should I Expect My Heat Pump To Last?
You should expect your heat pump to last up to 15 years. You can stretch it to 25 years with consistent maintenance.
How Much Should I Budget for Maintenance Services?
You should budget $50 to $100 for maintenance services. Pricing depends on your provider.
Can I Save Money on Maintenance Services?
Join the Cooper’s Club to save money on maintenance services.
Join the Cooper’s Club for the Best Maintenance Package in Town, Courtesy of Cooper’s Plumbing & Air
How often does a heat pump need to be serviced? Aim for an annual tune-up. Join Cooper’s Club for additional heat pump service perks from Cooper’s Plumbing & Air. Call 866-464-7132 to learn about membership in Tallahassee, Florida.