Heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular in homes throughout Dunedin and Otago, as an energy efficient air conditioning solution for hot summers. Heat pumps are a great way to cool your home down, but they can also be expensive to run if not properly maintained or managed.
To help you get the most out of your heat pump this summer, here are McClelland’s top tips on how to make it more efficient:
1. Maintain Your Heat Pump Regularly
Regular maintenance of your heat pump is essential for keeping it running efficiently. This includes cleaning the filters and trays, checking the system for any damage, and making sure there are no obstructions blocking air flow. It’s also important to have the refrigerant levels checked on a regular basis, as this can affect the efficiency of your heat pump.
2. Use a Programmable Thermostat
To maximize efficiency, you should use a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature throughout the day. By scheduling your heat pump to run less during times when you aren’t home, or when the temperature outside is cooler, you can save money without sacrificing comfort.
3. Shade Your Heat Pump
Wherever possible, locate your heat pump in a shaded area to reduce the amount of direct sunlight it receives, as direct sunlight can cause the unit to work harder and use more energy. If the area where your heat pump is located is in direct sunlight, you can invest in a protective cover or awning to shade it.
4. Install Insulation Around the Heat Pump
If your home isn’t well insulated, the heat pump will have to work harder to keep your home cool. Make sure to add insulation to your home’s walls, attic and other areas that are exposed to the exterior, such as crawl spaces. This will help reduce energy usage and save you money.
5. Clear the Area Around the Heat Pump
Make sure there is nothing blocking the area around the heat pump, including landscaping, furniture, or any other items, as they can block the air flow and make the heat pump less efficient.
6. Take advantage of night-time cooling
As temperatures drop overnight, you can use your heat pump to cool your home even when the sun is up. Setting your thermostat to a lower temperature at night will let your heat pump cycle on and off throughout the night. This can help you save money by allowing your heat pump to take advantage of cooler nighttime temperatures.
7. Check for air leaks
Leaking air can waste energy and cause your heat pump to run inefficiently. Make sure you seal up any air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings with weatherstripping or caulk.
8. Check and Change the Filters
The filter in your heat pump needs to be replaced every one to two months during summer months. A clean filter will ensure that the air is being properly circulated and cooled, which will help ensure that your heat pump is running more efficiently.
9. Get the Heat Pump Checked
Having your heat pump checked by McClelland before summer is a good idea to make sure it is running optimally. A technician can check the system and look for any potential issues that could affect its efficiency.
With a few simple steps, you can make sure your heat pump is running efficiently and keep your home comfortable during summer. Regular maintenance and a few small adjustments can go a long way in helping your heat pump perform at its best.
Contact McClelland Refrigeration
Make sure you get professional advice before having a heat pump installed.
