Why you need keep your heat pump running during summer
When the weather is warmer, it’s unlikely that your heating will be on your mind. In fact, you might be thinking about switching your heat pump off altogether.
However, even when the outside temperature rises, you will still need to keep some parts of your air source heat pump (ASHP) system active.
Read on for more about:
The benefits of keeping your heat pump running and maintained
Using your heat pump for hot water
Understanding cooling functions
Utilising holiday modes for efficiency
The benefits of keeping your heat pump running and maintained
Air source heat pumps are designed to work most efficiently when they are left to run continuously. This does not mean the ASHP is running all the time, or overheating the property. Your heat pump will be set up for optimal comfort by your installer, with the ability for you to adjust indoor temperature by using the room thermostat if required.
Switching the heat pump off entirely, much like a boiler, could result in key components seizing up, which could then cause expensive repairs needed later in the year.
Having a service for your heat pump during the summer months also ensures that any potential issues can be found and resolved before you have a greater need for it when the weather cools down.
Using your heat pump for hot water
For a heat pump to provide hot water you will need a hot water cylinder. This means you’ll still need to keep the heat pump system switched on in summer months to warm up the stored water to use for washing dishes and other household activities.
You can set your heat pump to only heat your water and not your home. This can be done through your heat pump’s controller, using features like summer mode.
For optimal performance, an ASHP cylinder has a specifically designed coil that is larger than ones in standard cylinders, which is able to work effectively with the lower flow temperatures a heat pump operates at.
Understanding cooling functions
Your air source heat pump can operate in cooling mode, transferring heat from the inside to the outside by reversing the refrigeration cycle. However, while most modern heat pumps have this ability, your system needs to have been designed and installed with this in mind.
It should be noted that whilst some air source heat pumps can provide cooling, this is different to an air conditioning unit.
Utilising holiday modes for efficiency
As mentioned earlier, your heat pump can be set to maximise efficiency throughout the year. When away from your home for a period of time, holiday mode can be used to protect the system and maintain a level of comfort in readiness for your return without using excessive energy.
You can set your holiday mode to operate during the period you’re away and then return to normal operation when you get back. This method of using your heat pump keeps it in good working condition and maintains comfort.
Learn more about the steps you can take to look after your heat pump throughout the year in our FAQs.
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Baxi Heat Pumps
Our air source heat pumps will deliver reliable, energy-efficient performance. Suitable for a wide range of properties.