The average air-source heat pump lasts around 15 years. An HVAC unit’s lifespan is dependent on several factors, including its design and overall quality. However, there are many factors that you, the owner, directly control. Caring for your heat pump requires diligence but is quite manageable if you get into the habit of it.

Often times, tasks are easier if you break them down into steps. So, from our team at Pacific Air Heating & Air Conditioning, here are five steps you can take to make your heat pump last longer:

1. Change Your Air Filter

Changing your heat pump’s air filter is key to a long life cycle. Filters help you breathe cleaner air. They also protect your heat pump’s equipment from dust. Yet, if a filter gets too dirty, it does more harm than good. With more and more built-up debris, your filter hinders air from passing through the way it should. That means your heat pump will take longer to reach the desired temperature, or it may even short cycle. Either way, this is hard on the internal components. Check your manufacturer’s guidelines to figure out how frequently you should change your filter. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check it habitually. If it looks like it needs to be changed, it probably does.

2. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean

This aspect is often overlooked. Remove sticks, leaves, and excess dirt from your outdoor box. Trim any shrubbery or ivy growing near it. During cold weather, snow and ice can be the enemy of your unit. Be conscious of the outside component’s appearance during wintertime. If it becomes ridden with snow or ice, power your unit down. Then pour warm water over it, and clean off the remaining frozen buildup.

3. Have Your Ducts Cleaned

Dust, debris, and even mold can settle in your ductwork over time. This can have negative effects on your indoor air quality (IAQ). Additionally, it is hard on your system’s components. To ensure proper airflow and clean air, you should have your ducts professionally cleaned once in a while. As a result, your system’s internal parts will be less likely to develop residue and more likely to last longer.

4. Schedule Routine Maintenance

What’s the best way to prevent breakage? Maintenance, of course! By scheduling maintenance at least once a year, you’ll be sure your system is running at peak performance. During a visit, your licensed professional can quickly diagnose and treat any potential problems. Any faulty parts, loose screws, or dirty components can quickly be remedied.

5. Have Repairs Performed by a Licensed Professional

While an under-qualified technician may tempt you with dirt-cheap prices, it’s best to have a knowledgable professional take care of the repair. Many factors in the repair, if wrongly executed, can void the system’s warranty and lead to future problems. That’s why you should find someone with the proper experience to address your issue.

Pacific Air Heating & Air Conditioning is a team of fully licensed professionals. We go above and beyond to protect the condition of your heating equipment. For any questions or to schedule service, call our Olympia, WA, office at 360-357-4328 today.