7 Mistakes Homeowners With Heat Pumps in Washington, D.C.
Properly utilizing your heat pump is critical to maintaining year-round comfort and achieving energy savings. When used correctly, this appliance can be among the most efficient forms of electric heating and cooling. However, there are common mistakes Washington D.C. homeowners make regarding heat pumps, and here’s how to avoid them.
1. Inadequate Pump Maintenance
Neglecting to adhere to the recommended maintenance plan for your heat pump can lead to significant repair expenses. Proper HVAC maintenance ensures heat pump longevity due to moving parts and refrigerant needs. By following the maintenance schedule diligently, you can prolong the lifespan of your heat pump, ensuring its reliability for the long term.
Consider enlisting the services of a professional HVAC company or expert for regular system maintenance and repairs. A well-maintained heat pump operates efficiently and consumes less energy, saving you money. Regular planned maintenance also ensures you address issues promptly before they escalate into major problems.
2. Warming up an Empty House
Many people spend most of the day at work or away from home over the weekend. During such times, heating or cooling your living space as if you were there becomes unnecessary. One effective strategy to cut down on your energy expenses is to install a programmable thermostat.
With this technology, you can remotely control your thermostat to save energy when you’re away and ensure comfort when you return. By doing so, you’ll conserve energy and reduce your utility costs while lessening your environmental footprint.
3. Not Replacing the Air Filter
If you haven’t replaced your air filter in the past year, you may experience some chilly consequences. The heat pump’s air filter efficiently removes tiny particles, boosting system efficiency during compressor operation. Additionally, it aids in maintaining clean ductwork and prevents dust intrusion into the system.
4. Adjusting Your Thermostat to a Higher Setting
Unlike traditional systems, heat pumps do not produce intensely hot or cold air. Instead, they employ a consistent flow of air to heat or cool your home gradually. This often leads homeowners to fluctuate their thermostat settings, believing it will result in warmer/cooler air from the heat pump.
Raising the thermostat setting will not heat or cool your home more quickly. Expect higher electricity costs with prolonged heat pump operation to reach the desired temperature without a noticeable increase in comfort.
5. Ignoring Uncommon Odors and Noises
Heat pumps should generally function without producing any unusual odors and minimal noises. Consequently, if you detect unfamiliar smells or sounds, it indicates a problem that necessitates the expertise of a service technician.
You should call an HVAC technician is you smell odors like a burning rubber scent, a dirty-sock odor and a rotten egg aroma. Likewise, you should not overlook sounds such as banging, hissing, gurgling, humming or buzzing.
6. Neglecting Leaks
Leaks can signal issues such as a cracked coil, loose fittings or insufficient refrigerant. It is crucial to have your heat pump inspected regularly for leaks and have it corrected right away.
Unchecked leaks from heat pumps can cause the system to operate excessively to try and keep the desired temperature. This results in higher energy costs and a shortened lifespan for your heat pump.
7. Daily Thermostat Adjustments
Regardless of the weather conditions outside, set your thermostat to your desired temperature and leave it there. Frequent adjustments to your system’s thermostat can result in unnecessary operational costs.
To save money and boost efficiency, tailor your HVAC adjustments for hot and cold days instead of daily changes. This approach will reduce your long-term expenses and ensure your system operates efficiently.
We’ll evaluate your home requirements and offer suggestions to maximize the performance of your heat pump. For professional heat pump services, contact Vernon Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Washington, D.C.
Image provided by iStock