A heat pump can be a fantastic addition to your HVAC system in Severna. As a reliable source of heat, this type of system has the ability to make your home more comfortable and efficient. But the performance of your pump depends on one key factor – proper installation. Find out about the most common heat pump installation mistakes and learn how to prevent them.
Why Mistakes are so Common
HVAC technicians go through extensive training. So, you might wonder why it’s so common for heat pump installations to go wrong. First, there’s the fact that some people go the DIY route. The most likely reason for an improper installation is a failure to call a professional.
Heat pumps are more difficult to install than you might think. They’re simple enough in functionality but have a lot of moving parts. Unless you have HVAC training and experience, you shouldn’t attempt an installation on your own.
However, even a professional can make mistakes. At times, the HVAC company is to blame. They might hire inexperienced workers or fail to use quality products. For that reason, you should choose your HVAC company after researching your options. Check into the reviews, recommendations, and qualifications of several companies and pick the one who you believe is best for the job.
The Most Common Mistakes
Whether you made the error or a professional did, there are a few likely causes. These are the top reasons your heat pump isn’t installed. In any of these cases, you need a 24 hour HVAC service to remedy the situation.
The Heat Pump is the Wrong Size
If your heat pump isn’t the appropriate size for your home, there will be consequences. A heat pump that’s too large will have rapid cycling, which creates unnecessary stress on the blower motor and spikes your energy bills. Meanwhile, a heat pump that’s too small will need to run all day to meet your heating and cooling needs.
When you have a poorly sized heat pump, your home may suffer from uneven temperatures, high humidity levels, and excessive energy bills. In the long run, the system will cost you more in repairs. The stress on the system makes your heat pump likely to fail before it reaches the average lifespan.
Choosing the right size heat pump isn’t a guessing game. Typically, an HVAC technician assesses your home and your current HVAC system before recommending a heat pump size. They consider the local climate, square footage of the home, insulation, and the number of people in the household.
Improper Clearance
The outdoor unit of a heat pump needs enough space for air to flow freely. If there isn’t adequate clearance, the exterior unit won’t be able to pull in heated air. As a result, the unit won’t be able to cool the air over the refrigerant coils.
Your heat pump could work without the right amount of clearance. However, it won’t work well. Inadequate clearance makes the unit work hard to pull in the air, and this takes a toll on the heat pump. In the summer, the equipment could overheat.
Additionally, the lifespan of your heat pump will suffer. The extra work takes a toll, as do the dust and debris entering the unit. Ultimately, your heat pump just won’t last. The best way to prevent this from happening is to ensure your unit is a minimum of 24 inches from any obstruction. If you have plants nearby, keep them trimmed back and dispose of the debris immediately. Regularly check your unit for leaves and branches.
Refrigerant Issues
Although refrigerant issues can occur for various reasons, poor pump installation is a possibility. If you have a newer unit and it’s low on refrigerant, this could be the case. There may be a leak around the refrigerant line seals, or the technician might not have placed enough refrigerant in the system in the first place.
Either way, the heat pump is under stress because there’s not enough refrigerant. The result is high energy bills and a potential breakdown. Typically, low refrigerant causes ice to form on the evaporator coil and damage can occur.
Too much refrigerant also comes with consequences. The compressor could be damaged and you’ll need a licensed technician to check out your heat pump. Because refrigerant is toxic, you should never wait to address refrigerant issues.
How to Avoid an Improper Installation
There’s only one way to avoid an improper heat pump installation – to work with a reputable HVAC company. When you pick the right person for the installation, you can trust your system will work the way it should. First, your technician will take the time to pick the best-sized heat pump for your home. They won’t rush into any decisions.
Secondly, the technician will carefully consider the installation of the system. They look into the placement and ensure there’s enough clearance for the exterior unit. Additionally, the technician will make sure the heat pump provides enough heating and cooling for your comfort.
Finally, an experienced technician ensures every step of the installation process is done properly. They don’t cut corners and don’t miss steps. When the installation is done, the technician makes sure you understand how to use your system and know its maintenance needs.
Don’t Rush Into Things
One of the worst things you can do is rush into the installation of a new heat pump. If you feel pressured to pick a pump and find an HVAC company, your installation could be a disaster.
Before you do anything, take the time to research HVAC companies. Read online reviews and find out about the services offered by the local companies. Is there someone who specializes or has experience with heat pumps?
If you take the time to research the installer, you improve your chances of a successful installation. Your diligence could end up saving you money on future repairs.
Who to Call for Heat Pump Installation
If you want peace of mind that your installation in Severna Park is done right, work with us at Bayside Heating and Cooling. You can count on our team for a smooth heat pump installation.
