The heat pump is installed - now what?
Upon the completion of your heat pump installation, you'll receive a comprehensive handover pack from your installer. This pack contains important documents and details to ensure that your system is fully compliant, properly maintained, and operates efficiently.
Generally the handover documents include all essential information about your heat pump and the company that installed it.
A high-quality, properly installed air source heat pump system requires an annual check. Your installer will provide specific maintenance guidelines and tips for optimising your system's performance.
Your installer should have provided an information pack with instructions on how to adjust the most common settings on the heat pump and how to run it in the most efficient way.
Step 1: Handover documents
Here are some of the contents that should be included in the handover document provided by your installer.
MCS Certificate: Proof of certification for your heat pump installation.
Insurance-Backed Warranty: Details of the warranty covering your installation.
Maintenance Requirements: Instructions and recommendations for maintaining your heat pump system.
Manufacturer’s Manuals: Installation and operating manuals for all major components, including the heat pump, central heating controls, and hot water cylinder. This includes all commissioning control values.
MCS Heat Pump System Performance Estimate: The performance estimate used in the final contract, along with any design variations or changes.
Heat Pump Output Power: The output power (kW) of the heat pump at the design ambient temperature and maximum flow temperature.
Heat Pump Compliance Certificate: A copy of the certificate confirming your heat pump's compliance.
Building Regulations Compliance: Confirmation of how you will receive certification for Building Regulations compliance, if required.
Step 2: Maintenance schedule
Before winter, it's recommended to have a professional service the heat pump. They will perform a detailed inspection to detect potential issues that may impact performance, which are not easily identified by the user. The service will include:
.jpeg)
-
Checking and repairing any duct leaks.
-
Inspecting filters, ducts, blowers, and indoor coils for dirt and obstructions.
-
Ensuring proper airflow.
-
Verifying refrigerant levels and pressure.
-
Inspecting electrical contacts and protecting them from the elements.
-
Checking for system leaks.
-
Testing heating/cooling controls to ensure proper function.
-
Lubricating moving parts and checking for wear or damage.
-
Testing the thermostat under normal operating conditions.
Step 3: Heat pump usage
A proper setup is essential for minimising your running costs. Below are some common ways to enhance your heat pump’s heating efficiency.
Adjust your heating curve:
Your heat pump's heating curve, also called "outdoor weather compensation," is configured by the installer during the initial setup. If not properly adjusted, it can lead to higher running costs.
Run your heat pump for longer durations:
Avoid having your heat pump heat the house or hot water overnight when outside temperatures drop significantly, unless you're on a cheaper 'time of use' tariff. During winter, a drop in air temperature reduces the heat pump's efficiency. If your home cools too much, the heat pump must work harder to reheat it, so it's best to keep the system running continuously and use a 'set-back' mode to maintain a lower temperature while you're out or asleep.
Upgrade your radiators (if you haven’t done so already):
If you didn’t upgrade your radiators when installing your heat pump, consider doing so now. Inadequate radiators won't heat rooms effectively, regardless of the heat pump's power, because they can’t handle the lower temperature water heat pumps use. Larger radiators or double/triple panel models provide more surface area for heat circulation without taking up extra wall space.
Optimise your Legionella protection:
UK building regulations require water cylinders to reach over 60°C regularly to prevent Legionella bacteria. Your heat pump likely has a timer for this function. If your bills are high, the timer may be set too frequently. For most, setting this function to weekly is sufficient, especially if you're home often.
References
-
Alto Energy has a summary of what they as an installer do when it’s time to do the heat pump handover.
-
The Renewable Energy Hub offers advice on heat pump maintenance.
-
Energy Savings Trust provides extensive information on how to improve your heat pumps efficiency.
Orangutan is powered by Turbine Education.
Copyright © 2023 Andrew Hall trading as Turbine Education. This website is under construction.