While Alabama may not experience the freezing temperatures of the north, there’s no denying that winter nights can get pretty chilly, making quality heat pumps an essential piece of equipment for any homeowner. But what can you do to ensure that your heat pump continues to operate as it should throughout the colder months? The heating contractors at Long’s Air Conditioning & Refrigeration in Robertsdale, AL, have over 40 years’ experience answering these questions, and they’re happy to continue to provide wisdom where they can.

The following maintenance tips will keep your heat pump operating at peak efficiency during the winter:

• Air Filter Checks: Checking your heat pump’s air filter on a monthly basis is one of the simplest maintenance tasks you can do—and one of the most important. Cleaning or replacing dirty air filters will keep heat pumps from working too hard to send heat throughout the home, which is the root cause of many basic maintenance problems.
• Clean Condenser Coils: As with the air filter, your heat pump’s outdoor condenser coils can also impact its energy efficiency. Over time, dirt, leaves, and even lawn clippings can collect on the coils and keep your heat pump from moving warm or cool air as quickly as you’d like. Brushing off this area—when the system is turned off, of course—is an easy way to keep the condenser coils clean.
• Keep It Clear: Finally, you should make sure that your heat pump is clear of anything that might block airflow and reduce efficiency. In general, it is recommended that you keep shrubs and other objects at least a foot and a half away from your system. Should snow or other debris accumulate on the top or side of your heat pump, clear it away as soon as possible.

Is your heat pump ready for winter? With nearly four decades of experience working with heat pumps, the team at Long’s Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (License AL #94143 & #50700) will help you stay comfortable year-round with great prices, expert advice, and 24/7 availability. To learn more about their HVAC services, visit them online or call (251) 947-9499.