Reliable Heat Pumps in Melbourne
Heat pumps, like any other machine, require regular maintenance to operate efficiently and effectively. This maintenance entails lubricating moving parts, cleaning internal components, tightening and securing connections, calibrating the thermostat, and so on.
If you use your heat pump for both heating and cooling, consider professional inspection and service at least twice a year. If possible, do so before the start of a new season for the best results.
Moreover, when you notice the following signs, you should call for professional repairs.
- Strange sounds and smells
- Uneven temperatures
- Ice buildup on the outdoor unit
- Weak airflow
A low hum when your heat pump is running is normal; this is the typical operational sound. However, if your system bangs, rattles, squeals, or violently vibrates, you have a problem that needs quick fixing. If it rattles or bangs, it may have loose bolts and panels, or a component is misplaced. Squealing sounds often point to fan motor or blade issues, whereas vibrations may suggest system imbalance, failing compressor, or low refrigerant levels.
If your system struggles to keep your rooms warm or cool, it may have low refrigerant levels. Refrigerant plays a vital role in regulating indoor temperatures because it transports heat away from or to your indoor spaces. This is often accompanied by weak airflow.
Insufficient refrigerant is also the primary reason for ice buildup on the outdoor unit. Other causes include dirty air filters, clogged coils, and a defective defrost cycle.
Consider a new heat pump installation when these issues occur often. A system that frequently breaks down is struggling to meet the heating and cooling demands of the area it serves. No amount of repairs will fix it; it will eventually give out. These systems last an average of 15 years, so the 10-year mark is a good time to consider replacement.