Four Mistakes That Detract From Heat Pump Efficiency

Putting some thought into improving heat pump efficiency now can save you a lot of money on energy costs once the temperatures start dropping at the end of the summer.

You may be making some mistakes in your heat pump system that are detracting from efficiency. The following are a few common heat pump efficiency mistakes to avoid:

Sizing a heat pump system for extreme cold rather than normal low temperatures

A lot of homeowners make the mistake of sizing their heat pump system for abnormally cold temperatures because they fear their home will be uncomfortable during cold spells if they don't. However, this results in decreased efficiency because the majority of the time your heat pump will be working when the exterior temperature is at normal lows.

If a cold spell comes through in the winter, it's best to rely on backup heating appliances like simple electric resistance heating rather than relying entirely on your heat pump system. This way, your home will stay warm while your heat pump won't waste energy during periods of seasonally normal temperatures. 

Using maximum efficiency units in colder weather regions

If you live in an especially cold area of the country, you probably want to avoid maximum efficiency units and opt for standard units.

Maximum efficiency units are generally considered maximum efficiency because they don't work as hard and consume as much energy as standard heat pump units. While this is advantageous in terms of saving energy, a maximum efficiency unit might not be capable of adequately warming your home's interior air if you live in a particularly cold area of the country.

Neglecting to fix leaks in your ducts

Your heat pump is connected to ducts that channel conditioned air throughout your home. If there are leaks in the ducts, conditioned air will seep out into the wrong places and your heat pump system will have to work harder to keep air in your home at a comfortable temperature.

Having your ducts inspected for leaks and having leaks repaired regularly is important to maintaining efficiency. 

Allowing snow to sit on top of your outdoor unit

When the snow comes next winter, be aware of the fact that it can detract from heat pump efficiency if you leave it sitting on top of you outdoor unit. 

If the evaporator of your outdoor unit becomes clogged with snow, the unit will have to work extra hard to melt the snow to get at air to suck in. You therefore should clean snowfall off your exterior unit just like you clear it off of your driveway and sidewalks. 

For more information, contact local professionals like those found at HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric.