Extend the life of your air source heat pump with regular maintenance - here's how to clean the unit yourself
The air source heat pump will stay in good condition for 12-15 years with proper maintenance. But what does good maintenance actually mean? In this blog post, we explain how often it pays to maintain your air source heat pump. We'll also tell you what you can do yourself and when it's best to call in a professional.
When is it time to clean the air source heat pump?
It is recommended to clean the air source heat pump every two months. Mark the calendar to check the condition of the filters in the air source heat pump at least every two months. Note that the location where the unit is installed affects how often it should be cleaned. If the air source heat pump is installed in the kitchen, the filters collect grease from cooking, in which case they should be cleaned weekly. The cleaning interval is also influenced by the use of the air source heat pump, whether there are pets in the home, whether there is smoking indoors or how often the stove is used.
Things to consider before you start cleaning:
As with many other home engineering tasks, making sure the air source heat pump is working properly requires you to do some preparatory work. But it is also good to use your senses. If you notice unusual smells or suspicious noises in your home, it's also worth checking the condition and cleanliness of the air source heat pump. An unclean air source heat pump is an ideal place for the growth of mold and harmful bacteria. A dirty air source heat pump is not very energy efficient and will not provide optimal heating or cooling to your home.
Please note! Before you start cleaning the air source heat pump, check the manufacturer's recommendations and prohibitions in the operating instructions. If you do not follow these, the warranty may be void due to improper use.
Think about your own safety too!
Turn off the unit and unplug it or turn off the power from the electrical panel before you start cleaning. Air source heat pumps are usually located close to the roofline, so make sure you are safe when working at height by using sturdy ladders. Also protect your hands to avoid injury and irritation from cleaning agents.
Cleaning of the indoor unit:
You can vacuum or use a cloth to gently clean the visible parts of the filters. If the filters are not terribly dirty, rinsing under running water may be sufficient. You can use standard household cleaners, but strong detergents should be avoided.
Allow the parts to dry completely before replacing the filters and using the device again.
NOTE! Do not touch the visible lamellas under the filters. Improper cleaning can damage them. If they appear very dirty or smell bad, you should contact a professional for a deep cleaning.
Cleaning of the outdoor unit:
Regularly check that there is no debris, such as leaves or branches, on the outside of the unit. These can damage the unit's propeller. Especially after stormy weather or strong winds, you should check the outdoor unit.
It is also good to regularly clean the ventilation grille, especially if the unit is placed in a very dusty or muddy place.
An expert should be called in for a deep cleaning approximately every three to five years, depending on the use and location of the unit. During the deep cleaning, technicians check the functioning of the device, maintain it if necessary and perform a thorough cleaning of its parts.
Condensation water:
If your air source heat pump has a condensate drain pipe, make sure that it is free of blockages and that the water flows properly. Dripping or misdirected condensation can cause moisture problems in the building and negatively affect indoor air quality.
If you are considering buying an air source heat pump:
Have you thought about getting an air source heat pump? An air source heat pump increases the comfort of your home and improves indoor air quality and night-time sleep as the bedroom temperature can be adjusted to an optimal level. In addition, the air source heat pump serves as an important tool for protection against moisture.
24 Center helps you install your air source heat pump
Through 24 Center, you can order a professional to have your air source heat pump installed. Contact us and we will send an expert for the installation. All this is arranged with a single call, according to your schedule.