Stop Making These 7 Heat Pump Mistakes in Leonardtown, MD
Heat pumps are one of the most energy-efficient ways to stay comfortable indoors in Leonardtown, MD. They are also relatively inexpensive to maintain, making them a smart choice for any homeowner. With that said, there are some heat pump mistakes that people commonly make.
1. Operating the Heat Pump on Manual Mode
The common mistake people make with their heat pump is running it on manual mode. This typically results in the system running at the same temperature all day, which results in poor energy savings. The best way to run your heat pump is with a programmable thermostat, which can automatically raise or lower the temperature to save energy, based on your schedule.
2. Not Maintaining Your Condenser
A good heat pump will last a long time, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to maintain it. Make sure to have a professional come and inspect your heat pump regularly to catch any minor issues before they spiral out of control. Do this at least once a year, but you can never go wrong with doing it every six months or so, either.
3. Maxing Out the Thermostat
When outside temperatures are extreme, you might want to crank up your heat pump and let it run all day long. However, this is a bad idea; running it at full capacity can reduce its efficiency and accelerate wear and tear.
Your heat pump is designed to work within a certain capacity and achieve specific temperatures. While you can max it out on occasion, it’s not a good idea to make a habit of it so you don’t force it to overwork and potentially break down.
4. Ignoring the Thermostat
The best heat pump won’t effectively heat or cool your home if the thermostat is faulty. An old or broken thermostat won’t communicate properly with the heat pump, leading to increased energy use and unpredictable temperatures. When you schedule regular maintenance for your heat pump, ask a professional to inspect the thermostat as well.
5. Ignoring Ducts
It’s important to seal the gaps in your ducts that could cause air leaks, ensuring that there’s enough air to flow into your home. To keep that air flow going, you have to pay attention to your ducts and look for any possible problems.
6. Ignoring Leaks and Drafts
The most effective way to reduce any draft or air leaks in your house is to use weather stripping on any windows or doors. Some people choose to stay away from this because they think it will be too expensive, but that’s not the case anymore. You can buy weather stripping specifically designed for windows and doors improving your home’s energy efficiency.
7. Running Your System All Day Long
Many people get their heat pump system installed and then leave it on all day. Doing this is extremely inefficient and also puts a strain on your system. This can cause problems when you least expect them.
If you’re going to be away from home part of the day, adjust the thermostat manually or with a programmable thermostat so that your system uses less energy while you’re gone. You can also decrease energy use while you’re asleep.
By being aware of the pitfalls, you can make sure your heat pump is running as effectively as possible and improve its lifespan. Contact Hancock Refrigeration Heating & Air Conditioning when you need a professional heating and air conditioning company you can trust to help you with any issues. Whether your heat pump isn’t working properly or you’re looking for heating and cooling services, we’re here to help.
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