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Maximizing Heat Pump Performance

Tips to help you save money and energy with your heat pump.

Settings and Use

  • Use your heat pump year-round: High-performance heat pumps are the most energy-efficient heating system, even on the coldest winter day. If you have both a heat pump and a furnace or boiler, your heat pump is the least carbon intensive.
  • Set it and forget it: Turning your heat pump on and off, or constantly adjusting it's temperature settings, may actually use more energy and cause comfort issues. Generally, it's advised to find a temperature that's comfortable and leave it there. 
  • Old advice may not apply: Common homeowner advice may tell you to keep the thermostat at a set degree for certain seasons (like 68°F in the winter). However, you should choose a temperature setting based on your comfort. Heat pumps operate efficiently at higher space temperature set points in the winter. 
  • Auto mode is not always the best choice: When the temperature outside is mild, a heat pump's auto mode can sometimes result in the system switching back and forth between heating and cooling. To prevent this, set the heat pump to cooling mode during the spring and summer, and heating mode during the fall and winter.

Build synergy with your home

  • Seal in your savings: Taking steps to weatherize and insulate your home will save you money on operating costs, reduce carbon emissions throughout the year, and may also allow you to upgrade to smaller, less expensive equipment. Consider energy efficiency programs for discounts, rebates and more on weatherization.
  • Keep an eye on your other systems: If you're using a heat pump in combination with your existing HVAC system, it's important to make sure the heat pump and your existing home system don't compete with each other. This may mean setting the boiler or furnace thermostat to a lower temperature, closing a radiator or damper in the rooms served by the heat pump, or installing integrated controls.

Heat pump maintenance

  • Clean your filters: When your filters get dirty, your heat pump's efficiency will decrease. Check the filters regularly to get a sense for how often they get dirty. The location of your units, and other factors can impact how often they need cleaning. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions. 
  • Keep your outdoor unit clean and clear: To operate efficiently, outdoor units need space for airflow. Check your outdoor unit regularly. When it’s needed, clear away fallen leaves, trim nearby shrubs, and shovel snow away. 
  • Have your heat pump serviced: As with any heating and cooling system, it’s important to have your equipment regularly serviced to extend its lifespan and keep it running efficiently. Talk to your installer or another qualified heat pump technician about setting up a routine service plan