Keeping your heating system in top shape during Florida’s mild winters is the key to staying comfortable and avoiding unexpected breakdowns. In Volusia and Flagler Counties, heat pumps and ductless mini-splits are the go-to options, thanks to their efficient performance in mild climates. To keep yours running smoothly, prioritize regular maintenance this fall. With a little attention, your heat pump can keep your home cozy in the winter and cool in the summer without missing a beat.

HVAC professionals recommend scheduling heat pump preventative maintenance twice a year to keep your system in good shape. If it’s been more than six months since your last inspection, watch for these signs that it needs immediate attention:

• Inconsistent temperatures: If your home has warm spots and chilly areas, it may be time for heat pump maintenance. Uneven heating is a common sign that the system is struggling to keep up with demand.
• Strange noises: Odd sounds like grinding, rattling, or squealing are red flags. These noises could indicate loose parts or a serious internal issue that won’t go away on its own.
• Rising energy bills: If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in utility costs, it’s a good idea to check your heat pump. An inefficient system requires more energy to deliver the same comfort level, making heating preventative maintenance a great investment.
• Cycling on and off frequently: Your heat pump should have a long, steady cycle. If it turns on and off frequently, it could be overheating or working harder than usual. Regular maintenance is your chance to learn what’s wrong and fix it.
• Reduced airflow: If you notice weaker airflow than normal, this could indicate a dirty filter, blocked vents, or blower issues, all of which can be resolved when performing maintenance on a heat pump.

Maintaining your heat pump is like taking your car in for an oil change. It feels like a hassle at first, but the long-term benefits are well worth it. Here are the top reasons to keep up with heat pump preventative maintenance:

• Improved efficiency: Like a well-oiled machine, a properly maintained heat pump uses less energy, which translates to lower utility bills.
• Extended lifespan: Your heat pump is an investment, and you want it to last. Preventative maintenance reduces wear and tear, extending your system’s lifespan by years and saving you on premature replacement costs.
• Fewer repairs: During routine maintenance, technicians can fix small issues before they become bigger problems. Routine checkups are far cheaper and more convenient than emergency repairs.
• Consistent comfort: Florida’s winter weather may be mild, but no one wants to feel the chill on a particularly cold morning. With regular servicing, your heat pump will maintain a steady temperature all season long.
• Better air quality: A clean system doesn’t just work better; it also improves indoor air quality by reducing dust, pollen, and other allergens that sneak into the airflow. This benefit is especially important for people with allergies.

Now that you know why it’s so important, you might wonder exactly what heating maintenance entails. Here are some of the main tasks your technician will complete as part of a heat pump preventative maintenance checklist:

• Check the thermostat: The technician will calibrate the thermostat and ensure it’s working correctly. This helps your system deliver the desired temperature, avoiding discomfort and energy waste.
• Clean or replace the filter: A dirty filter reduces efficiency and can lead to overheating or system damage. Regularly changing the filter is the easiest way to maintain your heat pump’s performance. In the case of ductless heat pump maintenance, you can usually clean and reuse the same filter several times.
• Inspect electrical connections: Faulty wiring and loose connections cause malfunctions or dangerous short circuits. During maintenance, your technician will check all electrical components to ensure safe, reliable operation.
• Lubricate moving parts: A heat pump’s moving parts need oil to stay lubricated. This keeps everything working smoothly and reduces friction that causes extra wear and tear.
• Clean the coils: The indoor and outdoor coils are vital to your system’s heating and cooling efficiency. A technician will clean these coils and remove nearby obstructions to improve heat exchange performance.
• Check the refrigerant charge: Low refrigerant makes it impossible for your heat pump to heat or cool effectively. Part of your heat pump maintenance service includes checking for leaks and recharging the refrigerant if needed.
• Test the blower: The blower circulates air throughout your home, so it must work at full capacity to keep you comfortable. The technician will check the blower motor, clean it, and balance it as needed for optimal airflow.
• Inspect the condensate drain: Heat pumps remove humidity and send condensate down a drain as they operate. If this drain becomes clogged, you may experience humidity issues and water damage. A maintenance check includes cleaning the condensate drain to prevent backups.

If you’re looking for reliable heat pump maintenance in Volusia or Flagler County, Best Value A/C & Heating LLC has you covered. With over 20 years of experience as a local, veteran-owned, and family-run business, we value quality and customer satisfaction. We’re not here to pressure you into products or services you don’t need. Instead, our personable team takes pride in ensuring the best performance from your heat pump. Our A+ rating from the BBB and Angi membership makes it clear: Your Comfort is Our Business! Contact us today  to schedule heat pump maintenance service and preserve home comfort all year round.