Tips to Keep Your Heat Pump Working Efficiently in Winter

Do you know how to warm your home during chilly Canadian winters? Understanding your heat pump is the first step to a cozy and cost-effective solution.

We're Whyte Plumbing and Heating. Let's go over the importance of heat pumps, explaining what they are and why maintaining their efficiency is crucial year-round. We'll share essential tips to ensure your heat pump works seamlessly all winter, providing you with comfort without breaking the bank.

What is a heat pump and how does it work?

Heat Pumps 101: The Basics

At its core, a heat pump is a versatile heating and cooling system that operates on the principles of thermodynamics.

Unlike traditional heating systems that generate warmth, a heat pump simply moves heat from one place to another.

It extracts heat from the outside (even in cold temperatures) and channels it into your home during winter. There are different types, the most common are:

• Ground source heat pumps
• & Air source heat pumps

In the summer, it reverses this process. It works like an air conditioner, removing indoor heat and releasing it outside.

Heat Pump Energy Efficiency Compared to Traditional Heating & Cooling Systems

One standout feature of heat pumps is their energy efficiency. Traditional heating systems often burn fuel to generate heat, consuming more energy in the process. Heat pumps, on the other hand, move heat instead of creating it, making them significantly more energy-efficient.

This is why you see heat pumps at 300% or 400% efficiency and higher, since heat pumps work by transferring heat, rather than burning fossil fuels to create heat.

This efficiency not only reduces your carbon footprint but also translates into cost savings on your energy bills. Read on as we share tips for heat pump optimal performance, particularly in the Canadian winter context.

Our Expert Tips for Heat Pump Systems

Tip 1: Remember to Set (Don't Crank) Your Temperature

Optimal Temperature is around 20°C (or 68°F)

When setting your heat pump's temperature, resist the urge to crank it up to the maximum. Optimal temperatures for winter hover around 20 degrees Celsius. This sweet spot ensures comfort without straining the system. Heat pumps work more efficiently when maintaining a consistent temperature, reducing wear and tear and promoting longevity.

Avoid Unnecessary Strain on the System

Pushing your heat pump to extreme temperatures not only consumes more energy but also puts undue stress on its components. Setting a moderate and constant temperature not only keeps you cozy but also extends the life of your system.

Tip 2: Use it All Winter Season

Heat Pumps work Year-Round!

Don't let your heat pump hibernate. These systems are designed for year-round use (this is true for air-source heat pumps and ground-source heat pumps).

In winter, they extract warmth from the outdoor air or ground, and in summer, they efficiently cool your home. Regular use prevents issues, ensuring that your heat pump remains in optimal condition when you need it the most.

Preventing Issues Related to System Inactivity

Heat pumps benefit from continuous operation. This helps prevent issues like refrigerant leaks and compressor malfunctions that can arise from prolonged periods of inactivity. Even during milder days, let your heat pump do its job to maintain efficiency.

Tip 3: Rely on Heat and Cool Modes (Not Auto)

Explanation of When to Use Specific Modes

Selecting the right operating mode is crucial for consistent and efficient performance. Instead of the 'Auto' mode, manually switch between 'Heat' and 'Cool' based on your comfort needs. A heat pump is reliable, but it doesn't know your comfort needs best. This prevents unnecessary spurts of heating and cooling when it's not needed, promoting a stable and efficient operation.

For cold weather, ensure to keep your heat pump in "heating" mode.

Tip 4: Keep Your Unit Clear of Debris

Importance of Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Regularly clean and clear the area around your heat pump unit outside. Debris like leaves, twigs, snow or dirt can obstruct airflow, reducing the system's efficiency. Ensure that the space around the outdoor unit is free from any obstructions to maintain optimal performance.

Preventing Airflow Blockages and System Malfunctions

A clutter-free unit promotes proper airflow, preventing potential blockages that can strain the system. Regular inspections and cleaning safeguard against these malfunctions. If you see snow or ice buildup, don't worry. Heat pumps defrost by themselves automatically.

Tip 5: Use Backup Heating Only When Required

Best Use of Backup Heating for Heat Pump Systems

While a heat pump system is efficient, extremely cold temperatures may warrant the use of backup heating.

Heat pumps begin to start losing efficiency around 4°C (or 40°F). This is because it eventually gets too cold to transfer heat energy from outside. The minimal operating temperature for newer cold climate heat pumps ranges from around -15 to -25°C. In areas around Greater Vancouver, temperatures this low are extremely rare.

Set your backup heating to activate only when temperatures plummet, optimizing energy usage. This ensures a comfortable indoor environment without unnecessary energy consumption.

Avoiding Unnecessary Energy Consumption

It's important to leverage the efficiency of your heat pump and resort to backup heating only during extreme cold or hot spells (furnaces, baseboard heaters, air conditioners etc). This way, you strike a balance between comfort and energy conservation.

Tip 6: Keep it Professionally Maintained

Schedule Regular Professional Inspections and Maintenance

Regular check-ups by professionals not only identify potential issues before they become major problems but also optimize your heat pump's performance. Schedule routine inspections and maintenance to benefit from a hassle-free and efficient heating experience.

What maintenance is required for a heat pump?

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance for your heat pump. Filters need to be checked, cleaned or replaced every season or as required, following the manufacturer's guidelines. Neglecting this can lead to poor airflow, as dirty filters, coils, and fans restrict the smooth operation of the system. That's why it's best to be proactive with maintenance. It's best to schedule maintenance annually to keep your heat pump operating and extend its overall lifespan.

Trust our Years of Local Expertise at Whyte Plumbing and Heating

Trust the experts! Whyte Plumbing and Heating offers professional maintenance services to keep your heat pump operating at peak efficiency. With over 12 years of experience, our qualified team ensures your system is in top-notch condition, providing you peace of mind.

Our team can assess any heat pump's heating capacity and find the one most suitable for your abode. With efficient heat pump technology, you can produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than a gas furnace and save upwards of $1,900 per year on heating bills.

Contact us today for heat pump installation or a quick tune-up.