In increasing numbers, South Texans are recognizing the value and efficiency of heat pump technology, called heat transfer. Every air conditioner uses this science, but most homeowners do not understand how it works. They feel the air coming out of the vent and it is cooler than the rest of the air in the house. But air conditioners do not actually cool the air, they remove the heat.
- Heat is attracted to cold. An ice cube on a saucer attracts the heat and melts.
- Pressure causes refrigerant gas to heat up, then suddenly cool as it is released. This gas is designed to attract heat from the air and move it outside.
This is an important distinction because heat pumps use the same principle during the winter, moving warm air inside to heat the indoor space.
- Pressure causes the same refrigerant gas to heat up and then suddenly cool as it is released. But this time, it happens outdoors, in the condenser unit.
- Warmth from the gas is attracted to cold air inside and released into the house.
- Since no energy is used to create heat, heat pumps are much more efficient than either electric or natural gas furnaces.
- South Texas winters are mild enough to benefit well from heat pump systems.
However, that means HVAC maintenance is doubly important since the same equipment is both heating and cooling a home. Some maintenance tasks can and should be completed by homeowners, and some must be completed by professional technicians. Here is a list of both types of maintenance tasks.
DIY Maintenance Tasks
All these tasks will be completed during an annual preventative maintenance visit completed by a professional. However, some tasks need to be completed more often than once per year, and the system will benefit when the tasks are completed more often.
- Changing the air filter. Certainly, the technician completing an annual visit will change the air filter, but filters need to be changed at least four times annually—once every three months. The filter is usually located at the base of the central air cabinet, where the return air enters the unit. (If your home gets more pollutants than normal or if a family member has breathing difficulties, the filter should be changed more often—perhaps monthly.)
- Cleaning the drain pan and line. Trip the breaker for the HVAC system so that it does not come on during this task. Remove the evaporator chamber cover—it is usually the only part of the central air unit with a removable cover. The evaporator coil should be in direct sight. Under the coil is a drain pan connected to a drain line that leads to a floor drain or the outdoors. If the pan is holding water, use a wet-dry vac or a cleaning towel to soak up the water. Remove any rust or debris from the water. Mix ½ white vinegar and ½ water, about 1 cup of each. Pour it slowly into the drain pan. This will remove any algae that might be growing in the drain line. Algae can clog the drain line and cause a messy leak. Replace the cover and restore power to the unit.
- Take a trip outdoors to the condenser unit. Notice that it is hollow, with a large fan inside. The exterior box is a network of tubes and fins. But dust, pollen, and even grass clippings tend to collect on the network. Remove the covers and use a garden hose to wash away the debris. Do not try to brush anything away or use a power washer since this can damage the fins and coil.
- Change the batteries in the thermostat. The switch for the system is called a thermostat, and it is powered by one or more small batteries. Turn the thermostat to the OFF position and remove the cover. Replace the batteries, reinstall the cover, and turn the thermostat to the On position.
Scheduled Professional Maintenance
The last DIY task is to call your HVAC professional and schedule a preventative maintenance visit. A technician will inspect the system, complete several tests, clean various components, and leave you with a report of findings. Some of the tasks the technician will complete include:
- Further cleaning of hard-to-reach areas, as well as a repeat of your DIY tasks.
- Testing of key electrical components—sensors, switches, and control devices. If a part is determined to be weak or has failed, it can be replaced before it causes a breakdown.
- Testing the refrigerant level. The refrigerant gas is pressurized in a closed network of tubes. This gas is necessary for the heat transfer process; if the pressure is low, it indicates that the network leaks. This also can be repaired, and the gas replaced before the system stops functioning.
- The function of the whole system can be gauged by the difference in temperature during a heating or cooling cycle.
The result of this visit will be a clear understanding of the relative health of your HVAC system. This is valuable information for heat pump systems that work year-round.
Do You Have Questions About Heat Pump Technology?
Northwind Air Conditioning and Heat can help answer your Heat Pump Technology questions for your home. Contact us and get the help you need.
