How to Clean Your Heat Pump between Professional Cleans

As one of the best heat pump cleaning companies in Edmonton, Alberta, we have been working with clients across the capital region to deliver heat pump cleaning services that they love. However, heat pumps, like any other heating and cooling systems, do need some in-between maintenance and cleaning by their owners. With their growing popularity, we thought it was time to write the go-to manual on how to clean your heat pump to keep it operating as designed. As heat pumps are a two-stage system, you will need to clean the indoor unit and the exterior condenser. Here is the process that we have tried and tested right here in Edmonton.

Indoor Unit

Step 1

First and foremost, you want to be careful around these heating and cooling systems and turn off the power at the breaker. This step will ensure you do not get shocked or experience issues if the unit powers up unexpectedly.

Step 2

Now, the next step depends on the specific system you have installed, but you will want to remove the air filter. You will typically find the filters on these units at the front of the system but some units have the filters on the side. Once you find the filter access panel, open it and remove the filter. You can vacuum the filter, then wash it in soapy warm water to remove dirt, dust, and any debris. Once they are clean, lay them down in a warm place and let the filters air-dry completely.  

Step 3

Next, you will want to remove the access panel to the interior coil. Once removed, use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove any dust that may have settled on the coils. If they are particularly dirty, you will want to apply a no-rinse foaming coil cleaner, such as Nu-Calgon, Foam Plus, or Frost King. You will then leave the cleaner on per the instructions, normally for five to fifteen minutes, and then wipe away the dirt.

Step 4

Once the air filters are completely dry, place them in their position on the unit and reattach the access door.

Outdoor Unit

Step 1

The first step in cleaning your condenser unit is to remove any debris that may have fallen or gathered, such as leaves, twigs, and garbage. You will want to ensure that your condenser has at least 30 cm of space all around for clearance.

Step 2

Next, you will take your garden hose and rinse the exterior aluminum fins. We usually recommend a fan spray setting to prevent damage to these very fragile metal pieces. Never use a pressure washer or a high-pressure stream on a condenser, or you may damage the unit.

Step 3

The next step is to use the same fan spray setting and wash the top grille and inner coils. Make sure to take the time to thoroughly wash each section of the coil.

Step 4

Finally, you want to check the drain hole on your base pan for any blockages or debris. If something is blocking it, simply remove it.

Step 5

Once everything is clean and it has had a chance to dry, flip the breaker and turn your heat pump back on.

Frequency of Heat Pump Cleaning

In general, it is best to clean the interior and exterior units of your split level heat pump at least every 2 to 3 months. The whole process can take as little as 20 minutes, and you should let your unit dry for around five to six hours after the cleaning. This is, of course, in coordination with regular maintenance and professional cleaning done by a team like ours.

These regular small cleans and deep cleans will ensure that your unit is ready to take on the busy summers and the frigid winters. Our heat pump cleaning services provide these units with a deep clean and are best booked in the spring as we prep for summer and the fall before temperatures drop.