Air-source heat pumps are incredibly efficient pieces of equipment, but it's important to prioritize heat-pump performance. They move heat, like a refrigerator, which allows them to more than exceed 100 percent efficiency. Many people from Cincinnati have their heat pump installed and never give it a second thought. However, to get the most out of your investment in a high-efficiency heat pump, there are three industry secrets you must know about. Combine each of these and you will see a spike in heat-pump performance.

• Airflow: The appropriate amount of airflow should be 400 to 500 cubic feet per minute for every ton of air-conditioning capacity. A decrease in system performance is seen when airflow drops below this level. A technician can attempt to increase airflow and improve heat-pump performance by cleaning the evaporator coil. If this doesn’t work, the fan speed might need adjusted, but that can also increase operational costs. The solution, then, may be to address the ductwork.
• Ductwork: Leaky ducts can decrease airflow as streams of air are allowed to escape the metal tunnel. Improve heat-pump performance and decrease energy costs by having a technician seal the leaks with a product called duct mastic. While you’re improving the ductwork, you should make sure it is insulated in places where it passes through unheated areas, such as an unfinished basement, attic, crawl space, or garage. Insulated ductwork also prevents heat loss through conduction.
• Refrigerant charge: Leaky refrigerant hoses are an expensive issue for two reasons. First, you must repeatedly pay to have the refrigerant recharged, and when the charge drops below the optimum level, heat-pump performance decreases as well. However, having a charge that is too high can negatively impact system performance as well. What you need is a knowledgeable technician who will check refrigerant levels at installation and at every service call thereafter. Leaks should be repaired as soon as possible, and the charge should be maintained within ounces of the recommended level.

For more tips on improving heat-pump performance, please contact Tri-County Heating & Cooling in Butler County and the Greater Cincinnati area. We’re happy to offer expert advice and answers to your pressing questions.

Heat pump image via Shutterstock.