Although heat pump systems are generally considered low maintenance, they do require some regular upkeep. Annual service checks are a good opportunity to ensure the heat pump system is working at its best while optimising its performance further and building customer trust. Going beyond the essentials, however, separates a good service from a great one.
At the heart of good servicing
It all begins with the annual check. A quality annual service should always include the fundamentals:
- Filter checks
- Water quality inspection
- Checks for refrigerant leaks
- Electrical system check
- Lagging/piping check
- Cleaning the unit and removing any debris
- Control systems check
- Operational settings check
These checks ensure your client’s heat pump system is operating efficiently.
The overlooked details
Beyond the basic checks, there are some additional things you can do to get the most out of the heat pump system.
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Speak to the homeowner
Engaging with the homeowner about their heat pump is a good way to help them understand more about their system and see what improvements can be made. Asking questions such as ‘is your home warm enough?’, ‘do you use a timer for your heating’ etc., provides a good opportunity for optimisation and to uncover any issues.
Some of the most common complaints from homeowners such as high running costs, inadequate heating and noise may be resolved by further educating the homeowner on their system.
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Flow Temperature Optimisation
Many installers set the heat pump at 55°C by default to guarantee heat, however it’s not always necessary. Reducing the flow temperature to 45°C can still keep a house warm and improve efficiency. It can also lower running costs for the homeowner.
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Risks of coastal corrosion
If a home is less than 2km away from the sea, the heat pump system is at risk of coastal corrosion. Heat pumps in coastal environments are exposed to salt spray which can corrode the external components, particularly the evaporator coils.
The evaporator coils are part of the heat exchanger, which typically has aluminium components. When in contact with oxygen, aluminium naturally forms a thin oxide layer on its surface which prevents further oxidation, however it can still corrode if this layer is damaged. Constant exposure to the chloride ions in saltwater can cause the protective oxide layer to break down.
Anti-corrosion treatments or a protective coil coating can help protect heat exchangers and other components in the system. It’s also helpful to consider the position of the outdoor unit to limit exposure to the prevailing wind, and reduce contact with salt spray.
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Wear and tear of components and Weather Protection
Linking to this, is the impact of the outdoor elements. UV rays from sunlight, wind, and rain can cause wear and tear on the insulation and pipework. A quick check can prevent costly efficiency losses.
In short, while annual servicing is straightforward, its those extra touches that make all the difference. Ensuring the best care for heat pumps keeps them working at their optimal performance. While we’re not suggesting that you hand over care and maintenance responsibilities to the homeowner, it’s important to get them involved in the conversation. Not only will it help them understand more about their heat pump system, but it also builds trust between you and your client and the service you provide.
If you have any questions about the care and maintenance of Alpha heat pumps, get in touch with one of our experts.