servicing Matters: On the Road with our Engineer
Having worked in the heat pump industry for over three years, I’ve witnessed the significant benefits of regular servicing. While heat pumps are energy-efficient and reliable, neglecting upkeep can lead to breakdowns, inefficiencies, and costly repairs.
In this blog, I’ll share why regular servicing is crucial for keeping your heat pump system running smoothly.
Alto Energy Engineer - Ryan Birch
Understanding how heat pumps work
Before diving into servicing, it’s important to understand how heat pumps work. Heat pumps are designed to transfer heat from one place to another. Simply put, they take heat from the air, ground, or water outside your home and move it indoors to keep your living spaces warm and comfortable. They use minimal electricity compared to traditional heating systems like gas boilers, making them highly efficient. However, like any mechanical system, heat pumps need regular care to function at their best.
The Benefits of Regular Heat Pump Servicing
From my experience, regular servicing brings several important benefits:
Increased Energy Efficiency - Over time, dirt, wear, and neglect can cause heat pumps to drop in efficiency. Regular servicing ensures your system runs smoothly, consumes less energy, and helps reduce your carbon footprint, ultimately lowering energy bills.
Cost Savings - Skipping servicing may seem like an easy way to save money, but it can lead to costly repairs later. Early detection of small issues during maintenance prevents larger, more expensive problems from developing.
Extended Lifespan - Just like any appliance, a heat pump that is regularly serviced can last longer. Annual checks ensure your system works efficiently, reducing the risk of breakdowns and extending its lifespan.
Reduced Risk of Breakdowns - Like all mechanical products, heat pumps can fail unexpectedly, especially in cold weather. Regular servicing reduces the chances of sudden failures by addressing wear and tear before it turns into a bigger issue.
Real-Life Experiences with Poorly Maintained Systems
I’ve encountered many systems that broke down due to a lack of maintenance. One case stands out:
A customer experienced a heat pump failure after eight years without any servicing. By the time we arrived, the system had serious issues, including a clogged heat exchanger and a poorly performing ground loop. These problems were the result of compounding neglect, causing the system to overwork and waste energy.
The repair costs amounted to over £3,000, covering both labour and parts, along with higher energy bills caused by the inefficient system. With regular servicing, these issues could have been identified and addressed early, saving the customer a considerable amount of money.
This example is not unusual. Neglecting maintenance often results in higher long-term costs due to emergency repairs and energy inefficiency. Although the cost of regular servicing can vary, it’s almost always more cost-effective than the long-term consequences of neglect.
Heat Pump Service
what does a heat pump service involve?
Heat pump servicing isn’t just about cleaning - it’s a comprehensive check-up. During a service, a technician will carry out the following checks:
Assess overall system performance.
Inspect the system’s heating ability.
Measure flow rates.
Check current amperage and unit voltage.
Monitor unit kWh consumption.
Examine and clean or replace filters.
Test inhibitor or glycol strength.
Inspect for any leaks.
Check the expansion vessel.
Bleed air from the system.
Ensure all components are functioning correctly.
During servicing, homeowners also have the opportunity to ask questions, making it a good time to address any concerns. These checks help identify and address minor issues before they escalate into larger, more costly problems.
Why Regular servicing is Essential
In my experience, regular servicing is essential for the efficiency and longevity of your heat pump system. Whether you want to save money, avoid unexpected breakdowns, or ensure energy efficiency, servicing plays a crucial role.
Neglecting servicing may seem like an easy way to save money upfront, but it can cost you much more in the long run due to repairs, inefficiency, and higher energy bills. By investing in routine servicing, you’ll keep your heat pump running smoothly and avoid costly surprises down the road.
Remember, when it comes to heat pumps, regular servicing isn’t optional - it’s essential. Take care of your system today, and it will serve you efficiently for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to service a heat pump?
Yes, regular servicing of a heat pump is essential to ensure its efficiency and longevity. Maintenance helps identify and resolve potential issues, ensuring that the system operates at its best all year round.
Do air source heat pumps need servicing?
Air source heat pumps require servicing, just like any other heat pump. This typically involves inspecting the system’s heating ability, checking for leaks, and ensuring all components are functioning correctly. Servicing may also include cleaning or replacing filters, testing inhibitor or glycol strength, and assessing flow rates to optimise performance.
How much does it cost for a heat pump service?
The cost of servicing a heat pump can vary depending on the provider and the type of heat pump. At Alto Energy, our Heat Pump Service Plans start from £25 per month.
How often should a heat pump be serviced?
It is recommended to have your heat pump serviced annually. Regular checks help maintain its efficiency, keep running costs low, and extend the lifespan of the system. Annual servicing is often a condition of the manufacturer's warranty.
heat pump service plans
With a service plan, you’ll enjoy lower yearly costs compared to booking on-demand services. Plus, members benefit from reduced maintenance call-out charges and exclusive discounts on parts if something goes wrong.