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What’s the Best Way to Prepare My Heat Pump for Colder Months in Maryland?

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The Mid-Atlantic states have mild winters compared to our neighbors to the north, making a heat pump an ideal choice for energy-efficient heating. However, like any heating system, heat pumps require ongoing maintenance to work reliably.

Heat pump maintenance isn’t difficult, and spending a few hours checking some important tasks off your winter preparation checklist can keep your home warm and cozy on even the chilliest days. 

The Three Critical Heat Pump Preparation Tasks for Maryland Homeowners 

For homeowners who want to know the best way to prep their heat pump, the answer comes down to three main tasks: a professional system inspection, outdoor unit protection, and updating the thermostat settings. 

Schedule an HVAC Maintenance Appointment 

Heat pumps typically need professional maintenance twice a year, at the start of the cooling and heating seasons. During these visits, a technician will change the air filter, check all the critical components (including the electrical wiring, motor, and coils), recalibrate the thermostat, and make sure that there aren’t any issues that could cause a breakdown later on. The system inspection and tune-up help maintain energy efficiency and keep your costs down.

During the visit, the technician will also provide tips and recommendations for maximum heat pump performance. For example, making insulation improvements and adding more protection in the attic can help reduce heat loss and wear and tear on the heat pump.  

Protect the Outdoor Unit 

The outdoor unit requires plenty of space around it to maximize airflow, but you should take steps to protect it from snow and ice. Even though Maryland winters aren’t necessarily as fierce as elsewhere, the outdoor unit can still sustain damage from falling icicles or snow from the roof. 

To get the system ready for winter, install a cover (ideally one designed by the manufacturer) to protect the unit from hazards. Some homeowners also opt to add a windbreak to improve heat pump performance, but be careful to avoid impeding airflow. 

Adjust the Thermostat 

To ensure that the heat pump produces enough warmth to keep your home warm, be sure to switch the thermostat to “heat.” This should trigger the reversing valve to engage and tell the unit to pull heat from outside and blow it into your home. 

Now is also a great time to check your thermostat settings and confirm that they are ideal for winter temperatures. You may need to make some changes to ensure your home remains comfortable without wasting energy to keep it excessively warm when no one’s at home. 

Let J.C. Warner HVAC Help With Your Winter Preparations 

Call J.C. Warner HVAC at (410) 758-2278 and schedule a system inspection and maintenance visit. We’ll make sure everything is ready for when the temperatures drop and the snow flies. Contact us today.


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