A heat pump is a valuable contribution to making your home more sustainable. There are various types of heat pumps on the market, but the main purpose of these devices is to heat your home or water without using gas. This not only results in a more environmentally friendly approach, but also leads to significantly lower heating costs. Although a heat pump is an ideal addition to your home, the initial investment can be considerable, given the cost of these devices. Regular maintenance of the heat pump is essential to be able to use it for as long as possible.
Table of contents:
1. Need for maintenance of the heat pump
Many people have experience with a central heating boiler before purchasing a heat pump, which often requires considerable maintenance. Cleaning, topping up and adjusting the system are common tasks. Heat pumps generally require less maintenance, with most types only needing to be checked annually.
The heat pump itself usually requires little maintenance, but the heat source and the heat delivery system do need regular inspections. An annual inspection focuses on the heat pump, the source and the delivery system, checking all aspects from wiring to pipes. Not only is the operation of the pump central, but the efficiency is also assessed to ensure that everything is working optimally.
In the event of malfunctions, it is advisable to immediately call in an inspector, but otherwise an annual inspection will suffice. A maintenance contract not only offers rapid assistance in the event of malfunctions, but also releases you from the annual appointment with an inspector. Self-inspection of the heat pump is not recommended due to the complexity of the system and the expertise required.
2. Tasks of the annual inspection
To thoroughly check the heat pump, several tasks are necessary, depending on the type of heat pump. In general, these tasks include checking water pressure, expansion vessels, wiring, pipes, components, going through the heat pump menu for warnings, inspecting and possibly cleaning line filters, checking the compressor and refrigerant pipes, fully testing all functions of the appliance, and measuring and recording the electrical current per phase.
By recording the operating hours and comparing them annually, the inspector can detect any deviations in the system. The same applies to the number of starts and stops of the compressor and the current per phase. Depending on the type of heat pump, there may be additional tasks. Performing this inspection yourself is difficult and it is therefore recommended to have it done by a specialist.
3. Self-maintenance options
If you want to do some maintenance yourself, you can keep the outdoor unit free and clean it if possible. Do not use chemicals or high-pressure cleaners, but clean the outdoor unit with a damp cloth and remove leaves, snow and dust. Also check the water pressure, because the correct pressure is crucial for optimal operation. Monitoring the number of operating hours and calling in an inspector in case of deviations is also advisable.
4. Importance of maintenance
Since purchasing a heat pump is a significant investment, it is essential to keep the system functioning for as long as possible. Regular maintenance, preferably annually, is therefore highly recommended. A maintenance contract not only offers quick help in the event of malfunctions, but also ensures that the efficiency remains high. The lifespan of a heat pump can even be extended to 20 to 25 years or even longer thanks to good maintenance. It not only contributes to sustainability, but also to reducing the use of fossil fuels, since a well-maintained heat pump often no longer needs gas. Maintenance ensures that the heat pump continues to function efficiently and can heat your home for a long time.
