Would you like to learn how to clean a central heat pump properly? Cleaning is a necessary task to ensure the optimal operation and longevity of the device.
It can be difficult to know where to start to carry out a good cleaning. Fortunately, heat pumps require light, diligent maintenance, but nothing too complex.
To help you keep your device in good condition, here is our step-by-step guide to carry out an impeccable cleaning of your heat pump.
Why clean your central heat pump?
Over time, your central heat pump accumulates dust and debris from its environment. The use of cooling or the rain also encourages grime to stick to the grilles and behind the fan blades. Mould also poses a risk to the residents' health.
Neglecting to clean the central heat pump increases the risk of obstruction. When the filter is clogged, efficiency decreases. The minimum recommended cleaning frequency is once a year, in spring. We suggest, however, doing a deep cleaning at least twice a year in addition to the regular basic cleaning.
We also recommend calling on specialists to ensure that the cleaning is done according to best practices. A poor cleaning risks damaging the machine and its electronic components.
A professional will also be able to verify that all the elements that make up your central heat pump are in good working order during their maintenance work.
Deep cleaning your central heat pump
Deep cleanings are generally done in spring. A cleaning at the end of fall after the leaves have fallen is also a good idea. The goal of these cleanings is to dislodge the debris that causes obstructions. Choose a sunny day to take care of the cleaning.
Basic cleaning of the central heat pump
The basic cleaning consists mainly of replacing or cleaning the air filters. There are many types of filters for heat pumps and the replacement frequency varies greatly from one central air conditioner to another. So take the time to consult a professional to find out the optimal replacement frequency to preserve your fresh air.
The steps to follow to properly clean your central heat pump
Before cleaning
- Turn off the power to your heating system from the electrical panel or the outdoor condenser unit.
- Put on gloves, a mask and safety glasses.
- Remove the disposable filters, the cover and any other accessory from your indoor wall-mounted unit. Make sure you know how to take apart your type of device, as all systems are different.
- If your cooling and heating system is several years old, also be careful not to break the cover clips.
- Cover the indoor unit of your system with a tarp to retain the water.
- Take the time to cover the visible electrical circuits with tape.
- Don't forget to check that there is no current, using a current tester, before starting.
- Cover with a tarp the walls, furniture and any surfaces you don't want to get wet inside and outside the home.
- Prepare a bucket, sponges and towels just in case.
Cleaning the central heat pump
- Use a non-abrasive antibacterial cleaner for cleaning the coils, blades and other elements of your wall-mounted air conditioner. We recommend a mixture of mild soap and water. Let the mixture work for about ten minutes.
- Pressure wash (the lowest possible setting) to rinse off the soap without damaging your heat pump. If you don't have a pressure washer, use a sponge and make sure to rinse the central cooling device well.
- Using a flashlight, inspect the various elements of the fan. Look through the bottom vent to see the cylinder. If there is mould or dirt, rinse thoroughly. If the grime is encrusted, remove the fan and clean it in a sink with mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Also clean the filters, covers and louvres under pressure.
- Still under pressure, wash the outdoor unit and rinse thoroughly.
After cleaning
When you have finished cleaning your central heat pump, allow time for the various elements and accessories that make it up to dry. Then, reassemble your system.
Cleaning the coil and the ducts
Cleaning the ventilation ducts is not necessary every year. However, we recommend cleaning them at least every 3 to 5 years. Like your wall-mounted or central heat pump, your ducts get dirty over time. They are therefore at risk of developing mould and carrying numerous bacteria.
If you have questions or would like to talk with a heat pump specialist, don't hesitate to contact our team. Excel Climatisation has more than 25 years of experience in the sale and installation of high-energy-efficiency heating and cooling devices. We will put our expertise at your disposal with great pleasure.
