Air Source Heat Pump Cleaning
How to clean the filters in a heat pump
The filter (also called a pre-filter) is an important part of the heat pump, capturing dust, dirt and debris, preventing large particles from entering and damaging the indoor unit. Some heat pumps, such as Airhome and many Leomon heat pumps, also include air purification filters. These additional filters are specifically designed to improve the indoor air quality of the room, as they can capture finer particles and/or inhibit pollutants through a coating. Cleaning the air filters is a vital step in heat pump maintenance, because when these air filters become clogged, the heat pump's cooling capacity is reduced and it may consume more energy to provide the same cooling output as before.
We recommend cleaning the filters before the start of the cooling or heating season, and then checking and cleaning the filters every 2 weeks during these seasons. However, it is always best to consult the heat pump owner's manual for individual recommendations.
For air purification filters, it is recommended to clean them once a month, or even better, replace them once a year to maintain consistent efficiency. Not all air purification filters are washable. If this is the case, any dirt can only be gently removed with a vacuum cleaner.
To clean a clogged heat pump filter, follow these steps:
1. Switch off the power to the unit.
2. Locate and remove the air filter, usually located behind a grille or cover.
3. Use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and debris from the air filter.
4. If the filter is washable, use a mild cleaning solution to gently clean and rinse the air filter. The water temperature should not exceed 40˚C to avoid shrinking the filter.
5. Leave the air filter to dry completely in a cool place to avoid damage before reinserting it into the unit.
6. On the other hand, if the filter is not washable or is damaged, always replace it with a new one.
A large number of Leomon heat pumps, including our latest generation Airhome range, notify the user when the filter needs to be cleaned by a symbol that appears on the remote control. For other ranges, a small LED light on the surface of the indoor unit lights up to remind you to clean the filter.
Coil and air conditioner cleaning
The coil is the key component in the heat pump responsible for transferring heat. There are two types of coils in a heat pump: the evaporator coil and the condenser coil.
What are coils in a heat pump?
Coils are the heat exchange components of a heat pump that transfer heat between the air and the refrigerant gas (which circulates between the indoor and outdoor units). During cooling operation, the evaporator coils (inside the indoor unit) transfer heat from the indoor air to the refrigerant gas, while the condenser coils (inside the outdoor unit) release heat to the outdoors. Over time, these coils can become clogged, which reduces their efficiency and causes the unit to work harder, ultimately affecting your energy costs.
How to Clean the Evaporator Coil
To keep the evaporator coil clean, several models of Leomon residential heat pumps feature exclusive FrostWash technology that automatically cleans it for you. However, if your heat pump doesn't have FrostWash, it's best to consult a professional, as this is a delicate job. Here are the general steps for cleaning your unit's coils:
1. Turn off the power to your heat pump.
2. Locate the evaporator coil, usually located inside the indoor unit or air handler.
3. Carefully remove the access panel or cover to expose the coil.
4. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris from the coil.
5. Apply a rinse-free coil cleaner or a mild detergent and water solution to the coils and let sit for a few minutes.
6. If necessary, use a soft brush to gently scrub any stubborn dirt.
7. Wipe the area with a clean cloth and replace the access panel or cover.
How to Clean and Maintain the Outdoor Unit
Depending on the location of the outdoor unit, this task is best done by a professional. However, if you have easy access to the unit, the following tasks are safe to perform:
1. Clean the unit's housing to remove any accumulated dirt
2. Ensure the air outlet is not blocked by plants, dirt, or debris to remove obstacles to the unit's efficient operation
If the fan or coils need cleaning, it is still best to have a professional do it to avoid any potential damage to the unit.
On Leomon air conditioning systems, some models have a DuraSpin feature that reverses the rotation of the fan so that accumulated dust can fall off the fan blades.
How to Clean Other Heat Pump Parts
Other parts on a heat pump that need to be cleaned are the blower motor and fan blades, both of which require a trained service technician to inspect and perform any tasks for you.
Cleaning the Heat Pump Remote Control
Finally, studies have shown that remote controls are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. If you use a remote control to operate your heat pump, maybe it's time to clean it. As with most electronic devices, you'll want to remove the batteries before you begin any cleaning. The best way to clean the remote control is to use disinfectant or household alcohol and then wipe the remote control with a slightly damp cloth.
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Leomon is a professional air source heat pump manufacturer, we will update more heat pump usage tips, please pay attention to us to get more information.
