Heat Pumps HVAC

Summers in the Los Angeles area feel hotter and hotter every year, and air-source heat pumps are integral to staying cool as temperatures soar. They also keep homes warm during cold weather. Routine maintenance on your heat pump can ensure your system provides cool air, but what does it include?

From air filter replacements to refrigerant level inspections, we at Monkey Wrench dedicate time, attention, and expertise to make sure all central heating and cooling systems are properly maintained. For over 15 years and counting, we’ve seen how adequate maintenance can protect heat pumps and ensure families all over Los Angeles and the surrounding counties stay cool during hot weather.

Air-source heat pump maintenance can be divided into two categories: professional and do-it-yourself (DIY) maintenance. Both of these services can be extremely beneficial to your heat pump, and in this article, we’ll highlight what to expect from them. 

As you explore different maintenance offers, you’ll feel confident knowing what these services should include so you can extend the life of your air-source heat pump for years to come!

 

What’s Included in Heat Pump Maintenance for Los Angeles Homes?

From basic to highly technical, heat pump maintenance includes services designed to make sure your air-source heat pump unit is operating efficiently and effectively. It’s recommended to schedule preventative maintenance twice a year, before the start of the hot and cold seasons, to ensure that they’re able to cool and heat your home. 

Air-source heat pump maintenance can provide the following benefits.

On the other hand, neglecting routine maintenance for your air-source heat pump can lead to problems down the line, such as.

  • A decrease in energy efficiency which can lead to higher energy bills
  • Frequent repairs
  • Early breakdowns and shortened lifespan
  • Bad air quality and airflow
  • May void existing warranties 

Any of the issues above can result in a nightmare scenario for your home where you’re not able to feel warmth or cool during peak seasons. Luckily, one of the best ways to decrease the chances of these problems occurring and secure all of the benefits listed above is with professional heat pump maintenance. 

 

Professional Heat Pump Maintenance in Los Angeles 

Professional heat pump maintenance can provide your heat pump unit with the best care possible. The best technicians are experienced, trained, and resourceful when it comes to maintaining your heat pump. 

Although pricing can vary for heat pump maintenance, you can expect a technician to perform the following services. 

  • Clean the units: During a maintenance call, technicians will clean and wash the outside unit of an air-source heat pump and use a brush and vacuum to clean the indoor part of the unit. A detailed cleaning helps remove any dirt, dust, and debris that has built up inside the unit.
  • Temperature checks and airflow tests: Whether it’s for warmth or cooling down, a technician will check the outgoing air from the vents. This test helps inspect whether your heat pump is providing cool air and/or struggling to provide warmth, for example. Inspecting the airflow helps ensure that your heat pump is blowing enough air.  
  • Inspect refrigerant levels: Technicians will use their specialized tools to check the refrigerant levels of your heat pump and compare them to the manufacturer’s standards. This part of the maintenance is crucial in checking the cooling and heating cycle of your heat pump. It can also shed light on if there are any refrigerant leaks in the system. 
  • Replace air filters: Air filters capture dust and other small particles that travel through the air. Technicians will check the filters and replace them, as well as clean the vents where they’re located. At an extra cost, some technicians can offer specialized filters, like.
  • Check wiring: Heat pumps run solely on electricity, which makes inspecting their wiring and electrical connections necessary. A technician will check the voltage and inspect the terminals of your heat pump to ensure they’re working properly and have enough power to cool or warm your home.
  • Tighten connections: Through normal wear and tear, the heat pump’s connections can loosen up. As a technician inspects your heat pump, they will tighten any loose screws and connections. 
  • Inspect ductwork: Ductwork plays a huge role in central heating and cooling systems because it transports air. Technicians will check and diagnose the condition of the ductwork. At an extra cost, a technician can offer duct cleaning or ductwork replacement if necessary. 
  • Apply lubricant to bearings: The bearings can lose lubrication through normal usage of your heat pump. Without lubrication, the bearings can cause friction, which can lead to unpleasant loud noises. 

Other common services include draining and cleaning the condensate drain, which can overflow if it isn’t maintained. A clogged condensate drain can leak water into your home. 

These are the most common services most technicians offer. Some may include more, but it’s always best to request a list of services included so you can see and compare what is offered by different technicians. 

In between maintenance visits from your technician, you can perform a few preventive care services on your own with your heat pump.

 

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Heat Pump Maintenance

DIY care and maintenance is fairly simple and involves a few services. These can be completed between visits from your technician and can further help protect your heat pump. 

You can do the following maintenance services on your heat pump.

  • Cleaning the surfaces: The surfaces of your heat pump system can get dirty and dusty. You can use an old rag to wipe the surfaces of the indoor and outdoor units of your heat pump. 
  • Inspect the thermostat: The thermostat can also get dirty and can be wiped clean. If your thermostat runs on batteries, replace them if necessary. Nowadays, it’s much more common to see smart thermostats, which may qualify for rebates. These thermostats may need system updates that are available in the settings.
  • Check connections: This simple maintenance task involves you visually inspecting the connections of your heat pump without having to take anything apart. If you see anything out of the ordinary, it’s best to take a picture and contact a technician for further assistance.
  • Replace air filter: One of the most important maintenance services you can do on your own is replacing your heat pump’s air filter. Although a technician can replace your air filter during annual routine maintenance, the filter can get very dirty in-between visits. This opens the door for you to replace your own filters, which you can find pretty much at any hardware store; you’ll just have to find the right one that fits in your heat pump’s vent. 

It’s recommended to inspect your heat pump once a month. Even if it’s still in great working condition, you may find underlying issues that can become expensive repairs if not taken care of sooner. 

 

Wrapping Up Air-Source Heat Pump Maintenance

As more homes seek energy-efficient systems, heat pumps will continue to rise in popularity. Investing in an air-source heat pump isn’t cheap, so it’s best to protect your investment with proper maintenance. Now that you’re aware of what’s included in routine heat pump maintenance, you can ensure you’ll find the right technicians to take care of your heat pump for years to come.

Since 2007, we’ve been at the forefront of heating and cooling system maintenance, whether it’s air conditioners or newer systems like air-source heat pumps. We’ve seen what it takes for heat pumps to be properly serviced and maintained so you can have a cool and warm home during peak seasons.

To learn more about air conditioning maintenance, contact us using one of the buttons below. You can also book an appointment directly through our online scheduler. 

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