When it comes to maintaining a healthy heating & cooling system, routine maintenance is not just beneficial, it is absolutely necessary.
This is especially true for heat pumps, which work twice as hard as other types of systems due to their heating and cooling ability. Neglecting proper care for your heat pump can lead to premature system failure and costly replacements. The skilled technicians at Kings Refrigeration & Air Conditioning know the warning signs of trouble and can get ahead of any major concerns with regularly scheduled annual maintenance appointments. In this post, we will explore what can happen when you don’t have your heat pump professionally checked regularly.
Refrigerant Leaks
A slow and damaging culprit, refrigerant leaks in heating systems tend to develop gradually, often caused by pitted corrosion in the copper piping of the line. Although these leaks may start small, they can cause significant damage over time. Even a minor leak can lead to a drastic drop in the refrigerant level within the system, resulting in decreased heat pump performance. Since the heat pump relies entirely on the refrigerant for proper operation, significant refrigerant loss will eventually lead to a complete system breakdown. To catch refrigerant leaks before they escalate, it is crucial to schedule maintenance appointments once per year.
Electrical Short Circuits
Proper heat pump maintenance goes beyond mechanical checks; it also involves inspecting the electrical connections throughout the unit. Electrical issues, including short circuits, can cause a variety of problems from short cycling and failure to start to even sparking fires. During a maintenance appointment, it is essential for a technician to thoroughly examine the electrical connections to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Defrost Cycle
Due to our harsh Atlantic winters, the defrost cycle is crucial to the operation of your heat pump. Heat pumps extract thermal energy from the surrounding air during heating mode, which can be problematic if the outside air is already very cold. The intensified heat pump operation can cause the air around the system to drop below freezing, resulting in ice formation on the coil. Typically, a defrost cycle is designed to remove the ice buildup. However, if the defrost cycle malfunctions, the ice can accumulate, leading to severe system issues.
The Importance of Annual Maintenance for Your Heat Pump
To ensure that your heat pump operates at optimal efficiency, it is essential to schedule annual maintenance. By having a professional technician from Kings Refrigeration & Air Conditioning inspect and service your heat pump regularly, you can catch potential problems early, prevent major breakdowns, and maximize the lifespan of your system.
Don't underestimate the significance of routine heat pump maintenance. By prioritizing professional checks and servicing, you can avoid common problems, such as refrigerant leaks, electrical hazards, and defrost cycle malfunctions, and keep an eye out for anything else that may go awry. Keep your heat pump running smoothly and efficiently by scheduling regular maintenance appointments with Kings Refrigeration & Air Conditioning. (We’ll even make it easy for you by emailing you when it’s time to book in for your next appointment! Make sure to add the email address: maintenance@kingsrefrigeration.com to your contacts so you don’t miss the notification.)
Invest in the longevity and performance of your heat pump and enjoy consistent comfort & peace of mind in your home or business.