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If you are in the market for a new cooling system, you might be hearing a lot of terminology that you didn’t hear the last time you searched for an AC system. Or perhaps you are a new homeowner who is completely new to trying to select an HVAC system and you’re feeling overwhelmed by your initial research.
Undoubtedly, you’ve come across terms such as heat pumps, ductless AC, and mini splits. What exactly do all these terms mean? That’s just what we’re going to explain. You see, heat pumps come in either two versions: ducted and ductless. Let’s go over the difference.
As more and more homeowners switch from central furnaces and air conditioners to heat pumps, we’d like to remind our customers about the dangers of an oversized heat pump. Just like any HVAC system, professional and proper sizing is required to ensure your heat pump runs efficiently and effectively so it can adequately heat and cool your home.
Although heat pumps have been around for decades, they’ve surged in popularity fairly recently. As such, a lot of amateurs don’t have the skills that are needed to properly size a heat pump—especially when switching from a furnace/AC system to a heat pump.
Because these systems provide both heating and cooling, there’s more to consider compared to the sizing of separate systems. Let’s go over why heat pumps need to be so accurately sized and the cons of an oversized heat pump.
If you rely on a heat pump to keep your home warm and cozy during our harsh winters, you may have noticed a decrease in its performance. Our heating season is long in Fairplay, MD, and you’ve undoubtedly been relying on your heat pump for many months now. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of the signs you need heat pump repair. Let’s go over four common repair needs you might be experiencing this time of year.
Heat pumps are an increasingly popular method of heating and cooling a home. These systems have advanced a lot in technology in the last few years to become even more energy efficient, making them a popular choice among homeowners who want to go with an eco-friendly option.
If you know that your air conditioner is due for replacement soon, you might want to consider replacing it with a heat pump. If you’ve been wondering if heat pump installation is right for your home in Hagerstown, MD, read on to learn more about the benefits of these systems.
Using your heat pump wrongly will reduce your comfort and increase your repair and energy costs. Unfortunately, most homeowners are not even aware that they are using their systems wrongly. We will discuss mistakes people make with heat pumps in Sharpsburg, MD.
1. Cranking Up Your Thermostat
You may get home to a freezing indoor environment and assume that cranking up your thermostat will warm your house faster. Unfortunately, you will be harming your system.
Cranking up your thermostat makes your heat pump run for an extended period. Consequently, its parts undergo more wear and tear, increasing the frequency of repairs. Running for a long time also increases your energy bill.
2. Ignoring Unusual Smells and Sounds
Ideally, heat pumps do not produce disturbing sounds and smells when running. However, the system may have weird sounds and smells if your unit’s parts operate inefficiently.
The odors may include burning, rotten eggs and musty smells. You should look out for unusual sounds like banging, clicking, buzzing, hissing and gurgling. Seeking repair services quickly when you detect anything unusual about the heat pump helps to prevent further damage.
3. Skipping Maintenance
Maintenance helps keep your heat pump’s components working efficiently, hence increasing its lifespan. A well-maintained heat pump is also energy efficient and does not break down often.
When your technician shows up for maintenance, they inspect and repair the problematic parts. They will also lubricate the moving parts, check electrical connections and clean the components.
4. Going for DIY Repairs and Unprofessional Technicians
Sometimes, your heat pump may break down, and you decide to work on it or look for someone that you assume might know something about heat pumps. Homeowners do this to save on repair costs, but these practices may cause more damage to your heat pump or result in accidents. Always seek a professional technician to work on your system.
Contact Hagerstown Heating & Cooling for professional heating services. We enjoy keeping our customers comfortable; therefore, we always do our best to restore your comfort.
When the winter weather sets in, many people depend on powered heat sources like electric heaters to supply warmth. Cold weather can be problematic to individuals with heat pumps. Read on to understand how snow and ice create heat pump problems in Clear Spring, MD.
Heat Pump System Failure
Excessive snow and ice block the connection between your outdoor and indoor units. As a result, you’ll encounter reduced airflow and introduce an error code on your programmable thermostat. Ultimately, your heating system will malfunction or stop operating.
Freeze Your HVAC System Outdoor Coils
Exposed outdoor coils on your heat pump are vulnerable to the harsh winter weather that chills them down and causes a freeze. Once the coils freeze, your heating or cooling system stands the risk of completely shutting down. You should contact an HVAC repair service technician for repairs and prevent a future recurring scenario.
Break the Condenser Sleeve
The condenser sleeve surrounds the entire outside HVAC unit. Snow and ice buildup can cause your condenser sleeve to crack and break. These breakages will increase the chances of getting refrigerant leaks, which cause the malfunction of your heating system.
Decrease Your Heat Pump’s Efficiency
Snow and ice accumulating affects your outdoor unit’s movements, making your blower fan overheat. Overheating will reduce the efficiency and use up more energy to operate. As a result, your energy and utility bills will increase.
Block Airflow
Snow and ice accumulation will obstruct consistent air flow from the outdoor unit to your indoor unit. This may drop your unit’s temperature to the dew point and fail to support the internal temperature. With time, the effect introduces damage to the system’s primary compressor parts, like the fan motor.
It’d be best to avoid snow and ice buildup on your heating system. Use a brush or a shovel to clear off the snow and ice to prevent more damage. Contact Hagerstown Heating & Cooling for quality heat pump services in Clear Spring, MD.
No heat pump lasts forever, and no heat pump can deliver the same efficient performance year after year. If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your heat pump in Fairplay, MD, consider these factors:
Heat Pump’s Age
Heat pumps can last between 10 and 20 years. If your heat pump has broken down and you know it has reached 15 years or more, it may be time to plan for a replacement. Newer models boast better efficiency ratings and convenient features.
How Often Does the Heat Pump Malfunction?
Also ask yourself how often the heat pump has been breaking down and the nature of each breakdown. For example, an issue with the air vents shouldn’t prejudice you to the quality and condition of the heat pump. In addition, you should request maintenance every year to avoid most of the smaller issues that can arise.
Maintenance has the additional benefit of minimizing your monthly energy expense. However, if you notice your bills rising in spite of all the tuneups and repairs, then opt for a new, energy-efficient unit.
Cost of Certain Repairs
Familiarize yourself with what service technicians call the $5,000 rule: multiply the heat pump’s age by the cost of a given repair. If it amounts to more than $5,000, replace the system. After all, some repairs, such as compressor replacements, can be almost as expensive as getting a brand new heat pump.
Hire Our Experienced Team
Fairplay, MD, residents have trusted Hagerstown Heating & Cooling since 2011, and they love us for our upfront estimates and 100% money-back guarantees. Call us today to take advantage of these and other benefits no matter the heat pump service you need. Our service technicians have NATE certification and undergo 90 hours of training every year to stay updated on the latest heating and cooling technologies available.
