Key takeaways
- Heat pumps are one of the most efficient ways to heat and cool a home, but that doesn't mean they always operate at peak efficiency. If your electricity bills have climbed noticeably, your heat pump could...
- Sometimes the cause is simple. Other times it points to a maintenance issue that needs professional attention.
- Blocked filters are one of the most common reasons for poor efficiency.
Heat pumps are one of the most efficient ways to heat and cool a home, but that doesn't mean they always operate at peak efficiency. If your electricity bills have climbed noticeably, your heat pump could be working harder than it should.
Sometimes the cause is simple. Other times it points to a maintenance issue that needs professional attention.
Dirty Air Filters
Blocked filters are one of the most common reasons for poor efficiency.
When airflow is restricted, the system has to run longer to reach the desired temperature, increasing electricity use.
Cleaning the filters every few months is one of the easiest ways to improve performance.
Incorrect Temperature Settings
Setting the thermostat extremely high won't heat the room faster.
Instead, it can cause the system to run for longer than necessary.
For most homes, a comfortable heating temperature is usually between 20°C and 22°C.
Open Doors and Windows
A heat pump constantly loses efficiency if warm air is escaping outside.
Keeping doors and windows closed while heating allows the system to maintain temperature with much less effort.
Outdoor Unit Restrictions
Leaves, garden growth and stored items can block airflow through the outdoor unit.
Keeping clear space around the unit allows it to exchange heat efficiently.
Ageing Equipment
Older heat pumps naturally become less efficient over time.
Wear, dirt buildup and ageing components can all increase power consumption, particularly if the unit hasn't been serviced regularly.
Regular Servicing Saves Money
Professional servicing includes:
- Cleaning indoor and outdoor coils.
- Checking refrigerant performance.
- Testing electrical components.
- Confirming efficient operation.
- Identifying worn parts before they fail.
A well-maintained heat pump generally costs less to operate than a neglected one.
When Should You Book a Service?
Arrange an inspection if:
- Your electricity bill has increased unexpectedly.
- The unit runs almost constantly.
- Heating performance has declined.
- The system is more than a year overdue for servicing.
Frequently asked questions
Do dirty filters increase power use?
Yes. Reduced airflow forces the system to work harder.
Should I leave my heat pump running all day?
That depends on your home and usage patterns, but frequent on-off cycling isn't always the most efficient approach.
How often should servicing be carried out?
Most residential heat pumps benefit from professional servicing every 12 months.
Need practical advice for your system?
Holmes Services helps Auckland homeowners and businesses with heat pumps, ventilation, refrigeration and indoor comfort issues.