Today, many homeowners install heat pumps because they offer efficient heating and cooling. Understand a bit about these HVACs to ensure you’re making the most out of your system. Here are four pieces of advice to keep your home cozy and utility bills low this winter.

4 Tips to Improve Heat Pump Efficiency

1. Defrost Mode

Heat pumps have outdoor components that gather warm air and move it inside. This air intake area is vulnerable to freezing, so a unit must go through a defrost mode regularly to reverse the flow of hot air and prevent moisture issues.

2. Smart Thermostat

Manually adjusting traditional thermostats to account for changing outdoor temperatures is not energy-efficient—the heat pump won’t warm up faster if you drastically increase the temperature. Instead, install a smart thermostat to make these changes in tune with the outside weather, keeping the inside temperature between 65 and 75 degrees. You can also set these control systems to follow a timed schedule to reduce the heat while you’re out and warm back up before you return home, lowering energy bills and minimizing your impact on the planet.

3. No Debris

Always keep a clear path of several feet around the exterior component. Don’t install landscaping in this area and ensure there is no debris like leaves or branches blocking it.

Never cover this shelter as it must be able to take in and expel air easily. Use a soft brush to remove snow buildup on top of the system, but let the sides naturally melt during the defrost setting.

4. Furnace

Those who live in areas where the temperature dips below freezing may benefit from using a heat pump and a furnace. Pairing these two systems creates a dual-fuel system to offer the most efficient warming and keep your home comfortable all winter long.

If you’re looking for a new heat pump or need maintenance in Boone County, MO, contact Albright Heating & Air Conditioning for a free estimate. The locally owned and operated company has provided 24/7 emergency heating and cooling services for more than 25 years. Call the Columbia-area business at (573) 875-7888 or visit the website for information on their geothermal and heating installations.