Heat Pumps
Choosing the Right Heat Pump for You
Choosing the Right Heat Pump for You | There are two major factors that come into play when determining which heat pump to purchase
Tips to maximize the performance of heat heat pump
If you have a Daikin mini-split heat pump in your home, you can keep cozy all winter if you follow a few basic maintenance tips. If you live in Halifax or Cape Breton and think your Heat Pump might need maintenance, read on to learn how to keep your mini-split heat pump in top condition all winter long.
1. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear of Snow
One of the most important factors in keeping your mini-split functioning efficiently throughout the winter is to make sure that it’s clear of snow. Failing to clear snow away from the unit is one of the most common mistakes you can make.
Outdoor compressor units are generally mounted at least two feet above the ground to keep them clear of snow and other debris—but as we all know, it’s not unusual to see the snow pile up that high in this part of the country.
If your outdoor unit becomes blocked or clogged with snow, your heat pump will end up devoting more energy to melting that snow than it will to heating your home. After any significant snowfall, you should make a quick check of the outdoor unit to ensure there’s no snow blocking or clogging the unit. Taking a few minutes to clear away any accumulated snow will help ensure that your heat pump is functioning as efficiently as possible.
2. Prevent Buildup of Ice
Nova Scotian winters are characterized by frequent freeze/thaw cycles. That means in addition to snow, homeowners also need to be especially vigilant about the buildup of ice on their heat pumps.
A common issue homeowners face is dealing with meltwater that drips off their roof and then freezes on the ground or outdoor equipment or meltwater coming off the unit itself when it’s in defrost mode. Ice freezing onto your outdoor unit has many of the same effects as snow clogging the unit, with the added risk of doing physical damage to the unit over the long term.
If you notice ice building up on your heat pump, the best way to deal with it is to melt the ice by pouring warm water over it.
3. Be Gentle When Clearing Snow and Ice
A common mistake made when trying to clear the ice or snow off a heat pump is to use a sharp or heavy object like a shovel or windshield scraper to remove the ice. Don’t do this! You’re risking major (and expensive to repair) damage.
If you can’t easily brush away the snow and ice, clear away as much as you can and then use warm water to melt what remains. The heat pump itself will also work with you to melt away ice or snow that is affecting its performance.
If you’re patient and allow the ice and snow to melt so you can gently brush it away, your Daikin heat pump will keep you warm and comfortable for years to come.
We have put together a guide to Care & Cleaning Your Ductless Heat Pumps, grab your copy here.
If you are located in Halifax or Cape Breton and your ductless heat pump is ready for its cleaning maintenance, please contact us at ATL-REFAC and we will be happy to assist you. Check out our heat pump maintenance service packages today
