The climate in Corpus Christi, Texas is ideal for using a heat pump. To promote optimal performance for the heat pump you’re planning on installing, or for an existing system, follow these tips.
Installation
The initial installation of the heat pump affects its overall performance, and may make it less efficient if not done properly. A few of the factors your technician will consider include:
- Ducts. Generally speaking, airflow through the ductwork should range between 350 and 400 CFM (cubic feet per minute) for every ton of capacity of the heat pump. If it falls below 350 CFM, the system’s efficiency drastically drops, as the heat pump must work harder to compensate. The installer should test and adjust airflow during installation.
- Refrigerant. When the amount of refrigerant is incorrect, the system’s efficiency decreases. During installation, the technician will test the refrigerant charge and ensure the refrigerant lines don’t leak.
- Purging and Evacuating. When installing new equipment the refrigerant lines should be purged and evacuated properly to make sure there are no contaminates or moisture left in them. If this procedure is not done properly it can cause premature compressor failure in the future.
A load calculation
To promote energy efficiency, the home’s exterior shell must prevent air and heat movement through it. Proper insulation stops the movement of heat in and out of the home through building materials, while air sealing prevents air movement in and out of cracks and gaps. Insulating and sealing are two actions that homeowners can employ to boost efficiency of a new heat pump, or to improve the performance of an existing system.
Maintenance
Annual maintenance promotes optimal performance from your heat pump — whether it’s new or old. Some of the tasks the technician performs during maintenance include checking the:
- Fan blades, cleaning them as necessary
- Terminals, applying a non-conductive coating if needed
- Electric controls, ensuring the heating mode doesn’t cycle on when the heat pump runs the cooling cycle, and vice-versa
- Air filter, as a clogged filter wreaks havoc on the system.
- Debris, checking for anything clogging airflow around the outside unit.
At Mathews CCAC Inc., we have over three decades of experience with installation and maintenance of heat pumps. Contact us today to schedule service, repairs or an installation. We serve homeowners in south Texas, and we know all of the nuances for making your pump reach its peak performance for this climate. Contact us and take advantage of our knowledge.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about heat pump maintenance and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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