Air source heat pump maintenance & troubleshooting

A heat pump is a great way to heat and cool your home, but they require regular maintenance to keep them running at their best. Annual servicing will help ensure that it runs efficiently, lasts longer, and helps you save money in the long run.

Without it, your heat pump could break down, costing you money in repairs or a full replacement.

What maintenance is required for an air source heat pump?

When it comes to maintaining an air source heat pump, there are several steps that must be taken. This includes:

Regularly inspect the outdoor unit to make sure there is no debris or other obstructions blocking the fan.
Keep the unit clean by removing any buildup of dirt, leaves, or other debris.
Make sure that all moving parts are lubricated and working properly.
Check air filters often to ensure they aren’t clogged with dirt and dust.
Check the refrigerant levels and adjust as necessary.
Clean the condensate drain line regularly to prevent clogging.
Inspect electrical wiring and connections for damage or loose wires.
Check for wear and tear.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s critical to have them addressed to avoid serious problems down the line. In most cases, it's best to hire a professional to take care of any repairs or maintenance that is required.

What are the common faults in air source heat pumps?

Air source heat pumps, while incredibly efficient for heating and cooling your home, can suffer from faults over time.

These common faults can be anything from blocked condenser coils to electrical wiring issues. The good news is that these faults are often easy to identify and address with the help of a qualified technician.

Typically, faults can include:

Blocked or dirty condenser coil
Low refrigerant levels
Faulty wiring or connections
Dirty air filters
Broken fan blade
Thermostat issues
Worn or damaged components
Clogged condensate drain line.

In order to prevent faults, make sure the heat pump is regularly serviced and maintained. This will help to identify any issues early on, allowing for quick and effective repairs before they become more serious.

How often should I have my heat pump serviced?

Ideally, you should have your heating system serviced at least once a year. This will help identify any potential issues and ensure that your heat pump is running at its optimal performance.

Alternative, can have it serviced twice a year, once before the cooling season and once before the heating season. This will help keep your unit running effectively throughout the year and ensure that any problems are addressed quickly.

Air source heat pump troubleshooting

My heat pump isn't turning on

If your unit isn’t turning on, the first step is to check the power source. Make sure the plug is securely connected to an outlet and that there’s no tripped breaker or blown fuse in your home’s electrical panel.

If the power source isn’t the issue, it may be due to the thermostat, compressor, or a low refrigerant level.

My heat pump isn't defrosting properly

Poorly functioning defrost cycles can cause serious problems to your pump. This is because when the coil freezes, it can restrict air flow and cause the unit to overheat.

To prevent this, you should check the coils on a regular basis and make sure that they are clear of debris or ice buildup. Additionally, you should inspect the wiring connections for any loose wires or damaged components.

My heat pump isn't generating enough heat

If your unit isn’t generating enough heat, the main culprit could be a lack of maintenance. Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the unit’s coils, restricting air flow and reducing efficiency.

To keep your air source heat pump running at its best, it is important to regularly clean or replace the filters, inspect the coils for buildup, check all wiring and connections, and make sure the refrigerant levels are correct.

My heat pump is not turning on outside

Check the outdoor unit’s power source. Make sure that it’s connected securely to an outlet and that there’s no tripped breakers or blown fuses in your home’s electrical panel. If the problem isn't related to a power source, then there could be several other issues at play.

My unit runs constantly

If your heat pump is constantly running, this is a sign that there may be an issue with the unit. It could be something as simple as dirty air filters or a clogged condensate drain line, or it could be something more serious such as a problem with the compressor or low refrigerant levels.

Regardless of what the issue is, it’s important to address it right away in order to avoid further damage.

My heat pump is blowing cold air instead of hot

This could be a sign of an underlying issue. The first step should always be to check the thermostat and ensure that it is set to the desired temperature. If the thermostat is not the problem, then there may be an issue with the unit’s wiring or connections, low refrigerant levels, or a faulty compressor.

My unit is making unusual noises

Unusual noises coming from your heat pump can be a result of a serious problem. Loud banging or grinding noises could be a sign of worn out components, or an electrical issue. In addition, vibrations and rattling sounds may indicate that there are loose parts inside the unit that need to be tightened.

It's essential to have a professional inspect the unit to determine the cause of the noise and make necessary repairs.

Learn more about air source heat pump noise.

My heat pump is not cooling

If your heat pump is not cooling, the first step is to check the thermostat and make sure that it is set correctly. If that doesn’t solve the issue, then there could be a problem with the wiring or connections, a refrigerant leak, or a faulty compressor.

Get expert maintenance and support with Unitherm

The best way to ensure your system continues to operate at its best is to service it regularly. Our qualified technicians can diagnose and repair any issues you may be having, as well as provide advice on how to keep your heat pump in top condition.

We'll ensure your unit is checked and tuned up ready for the summer and winter seasons. And if anything needs to be replaced, we have parts available to get your heat pump running again in no time. Contact enquiries@Unitherm.co.uk to book an appointment.