If you heat and cool your house with an air source heat pump(known as ASHP), you're already saving money on utilities. But did you know that there are ways to maximize those savings? With a few savvy tips and tricks, you can make your heat pump even cooler and save even more cash. Check out these eight chill tips to get the most out of your ASHP:
Keep it clean
Just like any other appliance, your ASHP needs regular cleaning to work at peak efficacy. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the outdoor unit, reducing airflow and forcing the machine to work more to maintain your desired temperature. Keep the outdoor unit clean and clear of debris, and replace the air filter inside your home every few months to keep the system running smoothly.
Seal your home
One of the benefits of an ASHP is that it's designed to work well in well-insulated homes. Make sure your home is properly sealed and insulated to prevent air leaks and drafts, which can lower the effectiveness of your ashp heating and increase energy bills.
Use a programmable thermostat
A thermostat with programming allows you to configure various settings for different times of the day, allowing you to conserve electricity when you're not at home or asleep. When you're at home, set the temperature at 68°F, then program it to decrease a few degrees when you're away or sleeping.
Keep it on
To get the most out of your ASHP, it's essential to run it consistently instead of turning it on and off. Frequent on-off cycles can minimize the efficacy of your heat pump and cause increased energy usage.Set your preferred temperature and let your heat pump handle the rest. You may conserve electricity by leaving it on when you leave the house or go to bed. This will also assist to keep your home at a consistent temperature.
Consider a backup heat source
Although ASHPs are built to work efficiently in various weather conditions, it can be challenging for them to sustain your desired temperature during extreme cold spells. To counter this, you can integrate a backup heating system like electric resistance heating, which can supplement the heat provided by your ASHP during very harsh winters.
Make the most of natural light
Don't let the winter blues get you down! Instead, embrace the power of the sun to keep your home warm and your energy bills low. By leaving your curtains and blinds open during the day, you can harness the natural warmth of the sun and reduce the workload of your ASHP. This means less energy consumed and potentially more money saved. So let the sunshine in and keep your home cozy all winter long.
Use fans to circulate air
Ceiling fans and portable fans can help to circulate air around your home, reducing the need for your ASHP to work as hard. Use fans strategically to move cool air around your home during the summer, and warm air during the winter.
Schedule regular upkeep
Regular upkeep can help to keep your ASHP running efficiently and effectively for years to come. It's a good idea to contact your heat pump supplier and schedule an upkeep appointment with a qualified technician at least once a year to keep your system in top shape. They can inspect your system, replace worn parts, and make sure everything is working correctly. This may help avoid malfunctions, extend the life of your ASHP, and keep it functioning at its full potential, saving you money at the same time.
With these helpful hints, your ASHP will be working well while your wallet enjoys a well-deserved rest. So chill out, relax, and let your ASHP do the hard work for you!