360-499-6604 Puyallup, Washington, sees temperatures in the 30s and 40s throughout the winter. This means homeowners will want to ensure their heating systems are ready for the cold weather. Stay safe and comfortable all season long with reliable heating.
Heat pumps, in particular, can benefit from pre-winter maintenance. This guide explains why you should have your heat pump checked by a team of professionals, like those at G & G Heating, before temperatures plummet. We’ll share common issues to look out for and signs your heat pump needs attention.
Why Pre-Winter Maintenance Matters
Proper operation and maintenance of your heat pump contribute to its effectiveness and efficiency. Here are a few reasons you should call for heat pump service in Puyallup before winter rolls around.
Reliability
Pre-winter maintenance, such as changing the filters and cleaning outdoor coils, ensures reliable operation when you need it. With the strong likelihood of a cold front this winter in Washington, you’ll want to make sure your heat pump is in optimal condition. Performing routine maintenance helps you catch minor issues before they spiral into bigger ones.
Longevity
Routine heat pump maintenance also helps you extend the lifespan of your unit. Like all heating and cooling equipment, maintenance is essential to longevity. Ensuring proper airflow and cleaning the supply and return registers helps maintain your heat pump’s efficiency.
Efficiency
Did you know that how well you maintain your heat pump significantly impacts its energy efficiency? In fact, a severely neglected heat pump uses 10% to 25% more energy than a well-maintained unit. Save on energy bills by investing in routine heat pump maintenance with G & G Heating today.
Checklist for Heat Pump Winter Readiness
So, what should be on your winter HVAC checklist? There are several steps to ensure your heat pump is reliable and properly functioning. In a heat pump inspection, a technician can:
- Verify proper airflow
- Check for refrigerant leaks
- Inspect ducts, filters, blower, and indoor coils for dirt and debris
- Seal duct leaks
- Verify correct refrigerant charge
- Lubricate motors
- Verify thermostat operation
- Inspect and tighten electrical connections
Additionally, homeowners should:
- Change air filters regularly: Standard air filters should be replaced every one to three months. Maintain the air filters according to the manufacturer or installer’s instructions to optimize efficiency and air quality.
- Listen for unusual sounds: Check your heat pump for any rattling, grinding, or buzzing. These sounds may indicate mechanical issues and shouldn’t be ignored.
- Clean outdoor coils: Check outdoor coils for dirt and grime with the heat pump fan off. Remove dust, pollen, and other debris from the outdoor unit.
- Clean supply and return registers: Be sure to regularly clean the registers in your home and straighten any bent fins.
- Test the thermostat settings: Set your thermostat to heating mode to test it before you need it in the winter. If it doesn’t respond or blows cool air, you might need a tune-up.
Catching issues early allows homeowners to prevent mid-season emergencies.
Common Issues to Watch for During Cold Weather
If your heat pump is not blowing hot air during winter, several factors should be considered. These are some of the most common heat pump issues during cold weather.
Dirty evaporator coils
The evaporator coils inside your heat pump absorb heat from the air. These coils can collect a layer of dust and dirt over time, leading to buildup. This buildup makes it harder for the coils to properly absorb heat and perform their job. If you see dirt on your heat pump’s evaporator coils, clean them off and ensure adequate ventilation.
Low refrigerant charge
Refrigerant absorbs and releases heat from your heat pump, so when there is too little of it, your heat pump can’t absorb as much heat. Sometimes, a low refrigerant charge can result in a colder home than you’d prefer. Check refrigerant levels and assess for a leak in your system.
Duct leaks
Hot air from your heat pump travels through your home’s air ducts. When air ducts have cracks or holes, the hot air can escape before it reaches your rooms. This heat loss is a major headache in winter and can make your heat pump less effective. Duct leaks can also increase your energy bills without changes to your thermostat settings.
Faulty reversing valve
A faulty reversing valve can make it difficult for your heat pump to switch from cooling to heating. If this is the case, the air coming in may not feel as hot as it should.
Dirty air filters
Air filters catch pollutants, dust, and allergens so they don’t circulate throughout your home. Air filters must be changed regularly to maintain your heat pump’s efficiency. Clogged or dirty air filters limit airflow into your home and can be the culprit when the air doesn’t feel as warm as it should. If you haven’t changed your air filters in a while, replace them and see if that improves your heat.
Signs Your Heat Pump Needs Repair or Replacement
How do you know your heat pump needs attention? Here are six signs to watch out for. If you notice any of these, call a professional heating and cooling company like G & G Heating for heat pump services in the Puyallup service area.
Increased energy bills
If you’re experiencing higher-than-usual energy bills, your heat pump may be to blame. Your heat pump’s efficiency may have lowered if it needs maintenance and cleaning. Avoid increased energy bills by setting up a maintenance plan with G & G Heating today!
Strange noises
If you notice rattling, buzzing, or grinding coming from your heat pump or vents, something is likely amiss. Strange noises can indicate there are loose or failing components that need to be addressed.
Foul odors
Similarly, foul odors can indicate problems such as mold or electrical issues. If you smell rotten odors, there could be mold buildup, and if you smell burning, it points to dangerous electrical problems. Call a heating professional right away.
Frequent cycling
If your heat pump is constantly turning on and off, it could be due to clogged air filters, refrigerant leaks, or dirty coils. Short cycling leads to higher energy bills, uneven temperatures, and increased wear on internal components.
Inconsistent temperatures
When your system struggles to maintain the set temperature on the thermostat, it indicates something’s wrong with your heat pump. Inconsistent temperatures can indicate airflow issues, incorrect thermostat calibration, or mechanical problems.
Poor airflow
Weak or uneven airflow can indicate that your blower is having issues, that there are duct leaks, or that the filters are clogged. Contact a heating professional to assess your home if you have poor airflow during the winter.
Professional Service from G & G Heating
If you’re looking for the heat pump experts in Puyallup, you’ve found them. At G & G Heating, we’re skilled in seasonal HVAC care and have extensive experience with heat pumps. Now that you know the signs to look for, you’ll be ready to promote heating efficiency with an energy audit in Puyallup.
Make sure your heat pump runs all winter efficiently. Book a seasonal maintenance visit with G & G Heating today.
