Heat Pumps Need Maintenance, Too!

Heat pump systems efficiently heat and cool by transferring heat rather than generating it. In heating mode, they extract heat from the air-even in cold weather. In cooling mode, they reverse the process, removing heat from indoors. This is done through a refrigeration cycle using a compressor, coils, and refrigerant.

There are different types, including air-source and ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps. They are energy-efficient, reduce emissions, and can last 15–20 years with proper maintenance. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting coils, ensures optimal performance and efficiency. Advances in technology have improved their reliability, making them a sustainable choice for modern heating and cooling.

The most frequent issue identified during a home inspection is the failure of the cooling line insulation. Occasionally, the hardware used to secure them to roofs and walls is broken, causing the lines to become dislodged and damaged. Proper maintenance prior to putting a property on the market can save a number of headaches later on the selling process.