Don’t Make These 5 Heat Pump Mistakes in Reston, VA

Do you want to make sure your heat pump system is running as efficiently as possible? If you find yourself guilty of any of these errors, take a deep breath and relax; there’s plenty of time to fix it! Below are some of the most common mistakes homeowners in Reston, VA make when operating heat pumps.

1. Adjusting Your Heat Pump Daily

Your heat pump uses both a compressor and an outdoor fan to distribute the cool air inside your home, which is similar to how a refrigerator works. When it’s cold outside, your heat pump will run continuously, but when it’s warm outside and you need heating, your system will cycle off regularly. Don’t waste energy by adjusting your thermostat every time the weather changes.

Furthermore, it’s a good idea to turn off your heat pump system at night and to leave it off for two to three days if you’re away to conserve energy. This is especially important when it’s summer and not using your air conditioner. At Indoor Air Quality Medics, we have several sources of information that can help you find out how to maximize the efficiency of your heat pump.

2. Not Locking Your Windows

If you want to keep your heat pump system efficient, then it’s important to lock your windows. If there are gaps in your windows and doors, the cool air coming from your heat pump may escape and warm air can come in instead. It’s not something people consider often, but it could lead to long-term problems with energy efficiency.

If you have a sliding glass door, make sure you lock the bottom of the door with a deadbolt. This is especially important for homes with young children and pets because they can take advantage of those opportunities to escape.

3. Not Changing the Air Filter

If you haven’t changed your air filter in the past year, it’s time to get ready for some cold air. The air filter in your heat pump filters out microscopic particles that cause your heating system to lose energy when the compressor is running. Additionally, it helps keep ductwork clean and prevents dust from getting into the system.

If you neglect to change your air filter, then you’re also risking the possibility of dampness and other hazards. If you have a central air system, then your home probably has a number of vents and registers. It’s important to make sure that each one has an air filter and that you clean them at least once a month.

4. Neglecting Regular Furnace Maintenance

If you have an electric furnace, it will be most efficient when it’s clean, so make sure you’re addressing that part of your heating and cooling system as well. When your furnace is dirty, the dust and debris clog its tubing, which can cause you to run your system more often. It also means that the system is working harder to heat or cool your home, wasting energy in the process.

Furthermore, a dirty furnace could be harmful to your family’s health. Ideally, you want to change your furnace filter once every 30 days. If you have a gas furnace, you need to make sure the pilot light is working and won’t go out while away to ensure that your furnace is running as efficiently as possible while using less energy overall.

5. Turning Your Thermostat Down Too Low

Many people tend to set their heat pumps’ thermostats a little bit too low. This can result in an air conditioner cycling on and off. When you do not need heating or cooling to add salt to injury, you’ll waste energy.

Moreover, this practice can cause moisture to accumulate on your windows, which could result in dampness. Set your thermostat anywhere from 72 to 78 degrees depending on the temperature outside. You’ll be able to maintain that level of comfort, but you’ll still save a lot of money in long-term energy use.

If you’re guilty of making any of these heat pump mistakes yourself, don’t panic. To make sure your heat pump system is running as efficiently as possible, make sure to address these common mistakes. Call Indoor Air Quality Medics for heating repair services if your heat pump is running inefficiently.

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