Servicing your air source heat pump

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are an increasingly popular choice for heating UK homes thanks in large part to their energy efficiency and the environmental benefits. However, as with any home heating system, they require regular servicing to ensure optimal performance and to maintain that efficiency.

This article explores why servicing is necessary, what it entails, and how often it should be conducted.

As we’ve mentioned above, regular servicing will ensure that your air source heat pump is in tip-top shape all year round. Servicing your heat pump typically covers the following:

• Inspecting and cleaning the filters
• Checking the system water pressure
• Examining the fan blade for any damage or wear and tear
• Inspecting the heat transfer system
• Checking for leaks
• Inspecting the safety devices on the cylinder
• Lubricating any moving parts

There are also some housekeeping tasks which you can do all year round to help maintain your heat pumps’ efficiency such as keeping the outside unit free from debris such as leaves, weeds, and other garden waste and bleeding your radiators when needed.

In the same way that you would have your old heating system serviced, you should do the same with your air source heat pump and ensure that it is serviced regularly:

• Annual servicing: Good practice is to have your heat pump serviced at least once a year by a MCS certified engineer. This will ensure that the work is carried out by someone who is industry qualified to do the work correctly. The good thing is that air source heat pumps require less maintenance than a traditional boiler.
• Seasonal checks: Additional checks throughout the year can help ensure the system is ready for increased demand, especially during winter. We’ve given some tips below on things you can do outside of your service to keep your heat pump in good operational condition. 

Your heat pump should be serviced annually, and some suppliers will insist on this as part of the warranty. It’s always a good idea to get your heat pump serviced in the warmer months before winter. If anything is identified during the service, you have time to get it resolved before the cold weather arrives. 

The cost of servicing an air source heat pump will vary depending on the complexity of the system you have installed, and the specific type of service required.

Some heat pump suppliers provide a servicing package as part of your initial purchase and there are also companies who will provide a servicing package for a monthly fee. For example, if you purchase an Ideal air source heat pump via EDF, your heat pump will come with 7 years free servicing and maintenance as well as an exclusive heat pump tariff with twice daily discounts.

Servicing your air source heat pump really isn’t something that should cause you huge concern. With regular housekeeping tasks in place and your annual service, your air source heat pump will serve you and your family for many happy years.

Regardless of which type of heat pump you have, it is always good practice to make sure that you get it serviced. This will help the longevity of your heat pump and keep it in good condition. Heat pumps generally have a lifespan of 20-25 years but with proper maintenance and care, your heat pump will serve you and your family well. 

As well as your annual service, there are some housekeeping tasks you can do yourself to keep your air source heat pump in good condition throughout the year:

• Ensure proper airflow – Remove any fallen leaves, weeds or other garden waste from the around the outside unit. Doing this prevents anything from getting inside the unit and causing a disruption to airflow or worse, damaging the unit itself. Always make sure that there is nothing in front of the unit blocking the airflow. Our video explains why your heat pump needs clearance.
• Bleed your radiators – This is something you’ve probably been doing already but it’s still an important job to do with your heat pump heating system.
• Check the system pressure – Checking the pressure on your system ensures that it will be running at its maximum efficiency all year round.

We have produced a handy video showing you how to keep your air source heat pump operating at its maximum efficiency all year round.

Maximise your Heat Pump’s efficiency. In this video, we provide a comprehensive guide on running your heat pump efficiently, ensuring you get the best performance and energy savings possible. From optimizing TRVs to understanding weather compensation, we break down everything you need to know:

There are many benefits to installing a heat pump including energy efficiency, cost savings, and the environmental benefits of using heat pumps over traditional heating systems. A well maintained and serviced heat pump will ensure that you continue to make the most of the benefits you’ll get if you upgrade your heating system to an air source heat pump:

• Efficiency: Highly efficient and more sustainable than oil or gas heating.
• Reduced emissions: Reduce your carbon footprint.
• Long lasting: A longer lifespan and can last 20–25 years, while gas boilers typically last 10–15 years.
• Further savings: Compatibility with solar panels – Pair a heat pump with solar panels and/or batteries to further reduce carbon emissions and running costs.
• Adaptable: Suitable for almost all types of homes.
• Help with costs: Installation cost reduction thanks to Government grants.

Over 280,000 homes in the UK now have Heat Pumps installed. Hear from one of our customers, Stephanie on how the process was for her and her home.

If you’re thinking about getting an air source heat pump but would like to see one in action before making the leap, why not pop over to the Nesta website and look at their ‘visit a heat pump’ scheme?  Just pop in your post code and you can see who has an air source heat pump installed near you. You can then arrange to visit them and ask any questions you may have.

Our highly knowledgeable team are primed and ready to answer any questions you might have about purchasing an air source heat pump for your home. To find out more, get in touch today here.