HOW THEY WORK
> Two major components: the “condenser unit” located outside, and “air exchanger” located inside. The air exchanger blows heated or cooled air through ducts. Heating coils (similar to those in a toaster) supplement the heat provided through the heat pump when it’s very cold (32ºF or lower) or when the thermostat is in the “emergency heat” position.
> Heat pumps extract warmth inside (in cooling mode) or outside (heating mode), and transfer the heat through a Freon-filled pipe running between the condenser and air exchange unit.
TO OPERATE EFFICIENTLY
> Periodically replace air filters inside house (located in wall behind large grate near air exchange unit; may have second filter in 2nd floor air return opening and/or attached to air exchanger); frequency depends on type of filter used, amount of dust, pet hair in home, etc.
> Don’t obstruct air return grates (w/ furniture, for instance)
> Keep outside condenser unit free of obstructions (e.g., leaves, snow accumulation, etc.)
CARE & MAINTENANCE
> Heat pumps last 12-15 yrs & are expensive to replace ($4,000-8,000 depending on size & manufacturer). Have heat pump periodically serviced.
> Insufficiently warm or cool air may be due to low Freon level.
> In winter, air may be temporarily cooler when heat pump goes automatically into defrost mode (to clear frost accumulation on the condenser outside). If there’s a lot of frost on your condenser unit, you may need to replace the defrost sensor.