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Category: User Guides

How to Use Your Heat Pump During Extreme Heat: 6 Expert Tips for Maximum Cooling

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When extreme heat and heat waves hit your area, your heat pump becomes your best friend for staying cool and comfortable. But here’s the thing—a little prep work can make all the difference between struggling through the scorching temperatures and cruising through them with ease.

We’ve helped thousands of homeowners optimize their heat pump performance during extreme heat, and we’ve learned exactly what works (and what doesn’t). Here are our top six heat pump tips to maximize cooling efficiency when temperatures soar.

1. Clean Your Heat Pump Filters (This Is Big!)

Let’s start with the most important heat pump maintenance tip: clean filters are everything. Seriously, this is the #1 culprit behind degraded heat pump cooling performance during heat waves.

Elephant Energy technician demonstrating how to clean wall-mounted mini split heat pump filters during extreme heat maintenance

Check the filters in all your indoor heat pump units (mini-splits) and give them a good cleaning if they’re dirty. It’s easier than you think, and the cooling performance boost is immediate. Clean filters mean better airflow, which means your heat pump system doesn’t have to work as hard to keep you comfortable during extreme heat.

For mini-splits, you’ll want to check both ceiling-mounted and wall-mounted units. The good news? Most filters just pop right out and can be cleaned with water and a gentle brush.

We’ve got you covered with step-by-step videos from our team showing exactly how to do this:

It’s easier than you think!

2. Clear Off Your Heat Pump’s Outdoor Unit

Your heat pump’s outdoor condenser unit is working overtime during extreme heat, so give it some breathing room. Leaves, twigs, pollen, and general debris can block airflow and seriously reduce your heat pump’s cooling efficiency.

Here’s what to do: Gently rinse the outdoor heat pump unit with a hose to clear away any buildup. Don’t use high pressure—just a gentle rinse will do the trick. Think of it as giving your heat pump a refreshing shower so it can keep cooling your home efficiently.

Adrian from our install team walks you through the whole process here—it’s quick and straightforward.

Clean Mitsubishi heat pump outdoor condenser unit properly maintained for optimal cooling performance during extreme heat

3. Optimize Your Heat Pump Thermostat Settings

We get it—when it’s blazing hot outside, the temptation is to crank that thermostat down to arctic levels. But here’s the reality: setting your heat pump thermostat way lower won’t cool your home any faster during a heat wave. It just makes your system work harder and your energy bills climb higher.

The Department of Energy recommends 78°F as the sweet spot for both comfort and heat pump efficiency during hot weather. Pick a comfortable temperature and let your heat pump do its thing. These systems are designed to maintain consistent temperatures efficiently during extreme heat—trust the process.

4. Boost Your Fan Speed (Mini-Splits)

If you have mini-splits, try setting your fan to the highest speed you’re comfortable with. Higher fan speeds help circulate air more effectively throughout your space, which can make you feel cooler even at the same temperature setting.

Here’s a quick video showing you how to adjust your fan speed—it’s just a few button presses on your remote.

It’s like having a gentle breeze indoors—sometimes that air movement is exactly what you need to feel comfortable.

Clean Mitsubishi heat pump outdoor condenser unit properly maintained for optimal cooling performance during extreme heat

5. Keep the Airflow Flowing

This one seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it gets overlooked. Make sure nothing is blocking your vents—no furniture pushed up against mini-split units, no curtains draped over return grills, no boxes stacked in front of duct vents.

Your heat pump needs to breathe to do its job effectively. Clear pathways mean optimal performance.

6. Don’t Shut It Off Overnight

Here’s where we see a lot of folks make a well-intentioned mistake. It might seem logical to turn your heat pump off at night to save energy, but during extreme heat, this actually backfires.

Heat pumps work most efficiently when they’re maintaining a consistent temperature. When you shut them off and turn them back on later, they have to work much harder (and use more energy) to bring your home back to a comfortable temperature.

Going away for a few days? You can raise the temperature slightly—maybe 3-5 degrees—but avoid dramatic swings. Small adjustments are much easier on your system and your energy bill.

The Bottom Line on Heat Pump Performance in Extreme Heat

Your heat pump is designed to handle extreme heat and hot weather, but these simple heat pump maintenance steps help it work smarter, not harder. A little heat pump care and smart usage goes a long way toward keeping you comfortable while keeping your energy costs in check during heat waves.

Remember, we’re all in this together when it comes to staying cool and comfortable during extreme temperatures. Heat pump systems are pretty amazing when they’re well-maintained and used properly—they’ll keep you comfortable through whatever hot weather Mother Nature throws your way.

Stay cool out there, and remember: taking care of your heat pump means it’ll take care of you when you need it most.

Need help with your heat pump or have questions about performance? Our Service Team is here to help you get the most out of your system. Contact us at service@elephantenergy.com.

Heat Pump Water Heater DIY Maintenance + Guides

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climate-friendly homecold climate heat pumpsenergy efficiencyheat pump water heaterhome maintenancehvacmaintenancewater heater

Heat pump water heaters are the energy-efficient alternative to traditional electric or gas-powered water heaters. They provide significant savings on your utility bills while also reducing carbon emissions – we love a double-duty worker! As with any home appliance, proper maintenance is important to be sure your heat pump is operating at its optimal performance and will last a long time. Below, we’re sharing our best tips and tricks to perform some DIY maintenance on your heat pump water heater, showcasing our printable heat pump water heater guides, as well as letting you know when it’s time to call in the big dogs (that’s us. The big Elephants?)

Understanding Your Heat Pump Water Heater:

Before we dive into the depths of all that your heat pump water heater has to offer, we think it’s even more important you know the basic functions of how it works. Instead of relying on conventional direct heating elements or burners like a gas or electric water heater, heat pump water heaters extract heat from the ambient air around it and transfers that heat into the water tank. This process utilizes the components inside of the heat pump water heater, like the compressor, refrigerant, and the tank itself that stores hot water. Making sure that all of these items are at their best ensures optimal efficiency for your heat pump water heater for years to come.

Tips for Heat Pump Water Heater Self-Maintenance:

Heat pump water heater parts - image source Woodfin

1 – Regularly Check and Clean Air Filters:

Your heat pump water heater has an air filter, which works to prevent dust and debris from accumulating on the coils. By checking these filters regularly (we’re talking monthly, set a calendar reminder!) and cleaning them out, you’ll maintain optimal airflow. If you find cleaning isn’t doing the trick, be sure to order replacement filters. Restricted airflow will reduce your heat pump water heater’s efficiency along with increasing energy consumption.

2 – Inspect and Clean Condenser and Evaporator Coils:

Heat is transferred in your water heater via the condenser and evaporator coils, and if dust and dirt build up on them, it will reduce your water heater’s efficiency. By inspecting the coils on your heat pump water heater, you can ensure they’re clean and efficient. The coils can be cleaned with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner – be sure to avoid harsh chemicals or any abrasive materials as they can easily damage the coils.

3 – Maintain Adequate Clearance:

When your heat pump water heater is installed by Elephant Energy, we make sure it has adequate clearance surrounding it to allow for proper airflow. It’s up to you to keep it up – remove any obstructions like boxes, furniture, or debris that can block and restrict airflow to the unit. It’s crucial for the heat pump water heater’s function that you have optimal heat exchange and efficiency, so find a new spot to stack up your holiday decorations and boxes of photo albums!

4 – Check the Anode Rod:

The anode rod for your heat pump water heater is a sacrificial component that helps prevent corrosion inside the water heater tank. Inspect the anode rod annually and replace it if it’s corroded or worn out. A correctly functioning anode rod can extend the lifespan of your water heater and prevent costly tank repairs down the road.

5 – Monitor Temperature and Pressure:

Regularly check the temperature and pressure relief valve on your heat pump water heater to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Test the valve by lifting the lever briefly to release a small amount of water. If the valve fails to operate or leaks persistently, replace it immediately to prevent potential water hazards.

6 – Flush the Tank Annually:

Over time, sediment and mineral deposits can accumulate at the bottom of the heat pump water heater tank, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. By draining and flushing the tank annually, you’ll remove these deposits and maintain optimal performance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for draining and flushing your specific model.

7 – Insulate Hot Water Pipes:

Insulating the hot water pipes connected to your heat pump water heater can help reduce heat loss and improve overall efficiency. Use foam pipe insulation sleeves to cover exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas such as basements or crawl spaces. 

Looking for more information regarding best practices, frequently asked questions, and troubleshooting? Download our user guides, made in house by our team of HVAC experts, here:

– AO Smith (Model HPTU-80)
– Rheem (Model PROPH5)

When to Call in the Experts:

As listed above, there’s a ton you can do as a homeowner to maintain your heat pump water heater by yourself. However, it’s good to know what situations call for professional experience:

1 – Electrical or Mechanical Issues:

If you encounter any electrical or mechanical problems with your heat pump water heater, such as compressor failure or motor issues, it’s best to contact a qualified HVAC technician. Attempting to repair complex components without proper training and tools can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

2 – Warranty Coverage:

By choosing Elephant Energy to install your heat pump water heater, you’ll receive a one year labor warranty. You’ve also got a ten year parts warranty for any part or equipment failures. Keep in mind, it’s imperative that you follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance guidelines and seek authorized service providers for repairs. Attempting DIY repairs or neglecting maintenance could void your warranty and leave you liable for repair costs.

Continual, regular maintenance is key to both maximizing the performance and lifespan of your heat pump water heater as well as ensuring you’re keeping a climate-friendly home running its best. Take the time to read and revisit this guide for our DIY tips, to download our helpful user guides, and to remind yourself when it’s best to call in the experts. With the right care and attention, your heat pump water heater will provide reliable hot water for years to come, all while helping you do your part in decarbonizing as well as saving money, too!

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Ready to get started? Join us in building a brighter future by electrifying everything, starting with homes. Your choice today shapes our collective tomorrow!

Air Source Heat Pump DIY Maintenance + Guides

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climate-friendly homecold climate heat pumpsenergy efficiencyheat pumpshome maintenancehvacmaintenancemini split heat pumps

Being the proud owner of an air source heat pump can significantly contribute to both energy efficiency and a climate-friendly home. However, things can turn south if you aren’t keeping up with regular maintenance to ensure your heat pump’s optimal performance. We’re big fans of do-it-yourself maintenance on your products in between professional servicing to keep your air source heat pump running in tip-top shape. Follow this simple DIY maintenance guide for your heat pump to get tips and tricks on self-maintenance for your heat pump, plus get a printable option for you to use whenever you need it, along with insights on when it’s time to call an expert.

Understanding Your Air Source Heat Pump:

Before we just jump into the how-tos on self-maintaining your heat pump, it’s super important to understand how the heat pump itself operates. Essentially, your air source heat pump works by transferring heat from the outside air into your home, and vice versa to cool it in the warmer months. It’s wild to know that there’s heat outside, even when temps are in the negatives, but it’s true! There are multiple parts that work to make all of this happen in your heat pump, including a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and refrigerant lines.

Tips for Heat Pump Self-Maintenance:

Air source heat pump maintenance primarily involves ensuring proper airflow, cleaning components and checking refrigerant levels. Doing this on a consistent basis will ensure your heat pump is properly maintained. Follow these tips to make sure you keep your air source heat pump clean: 

1 – Regularly Clean or Replace Air Filters:

One of the simplest yet most important heat pump maintenance tasks is cleaning or replacing air filters. Clogged filters restrict airflow, reducing the heat pump’s efficiency and potentially leading to system malfunctions. Check your filters monthly and clean or replace them as needed, especially during peak usage seasons. Want to see filter cleaning in action? Check out our video on how to clean your wall-mounted heat pump air filters, or see our video on how to clean your mini-split ceiling-mounted heat pump air filters.

2 – Keep Outdoor Unit Clear:

The outdoor unit of your heat pump can accumulate dirt, debris, leaves, and even snow depending on the season. Make sure that the area around your heat pump’s outdoor unit remains clear to allow proper airflow. Trim back any growth from bushes, trees, or grass, and be sure to remove any obstructions that could block airflow to the unit.

3 – Inspect and Clean Coils:

Both your heat pump’s outdoor condenser coil and indoor evaporator coil can collect dirt and dust over time, hindering heat transfer. By periodically inspecting these coils and cleaning them, you’ll ensure efficient performance. For the outdoor unit, you can use a hose. Make sure you’re gentle to avoid damaging the fins. For the indoor unit, use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.

4 – Check and Clean Drainage System:

A clogged condensate drain on your heat pump can cause water leakage or potentially even water damage to your home, and that’s no good! Inspect the condensate drain regularly and be sure to remove any obstructions using a vacuum or a mixture of water and mild detergent. Ensuring proper drainage prevents future issues.

5 – Monitor Refrigerant Levels:

While refrigerant leaks are very uncommon, it’s essential to monitor the refrigerant levels periodically to be sure nothing fishy’s happening with your heat pump. Low refrigerant levels may indicate a leak or other issues that require professional attention. If you notice a significant decrease in cooling or heating efficiency, contact the team at Elephant Energy to inspect and recharge the refrigerant as needed.

6 – Test Thermostat and Controls:

Regularly test your thermostat and heat pump controls to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Sometimes, it can be as simple as replacing the batteries in your thermostat if you’re having issues. You’ll also want to ensure that the settings are appropriate for your climate-friendly home’s needs.

7 – Lubricate Moving Parts:

Some components of your air source heat pump, such as fan motors and bearings, may require lubrication to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation. Refer to your owner’s manual for guidance on lubrication intervals and the type of lubricant to use.

Take a look at our best practices, FAQs, and troubleshooting tips for your heat pump from our team here:

– Mitsubishi Heat Pump User Guide
includes: Mitsubishi PUZ, Mitsubishi MXZ-SM/PVFY, Mitsubishi MXZ36-SVZ24, and Mitsubishi MXZ36

When to Call in the Experts:

While self-maintenance can help keep your air source heat pump in good condition, there are certain situations where professional assistance is necessary. Good news – we’re only a phone call or email away!

1 – Complex Repairs:

If you encounter any issues beyond basic maintenance tasks, such as compressor failure, refrigerant leaks, or electrical problems, it’s best to contact the team at Elephant, where we have qualified HVAC technicians ready to help. Attempting complex repairs without proper training and equipment can lead to further damage or safety hazards.

2 – Annual Professional Servicing:

We’re huge supporters of you performing DIY heat pump maintenance, but annual professional service can cover the more difficult and complex maintenance needs! During these service visits, a technician will conduct thorough inspections, tune-ups, and system diagnostics to ensure your heat pump is running at its best and proactively address any issues they may see with an expert eye.

3 – Warranty Coverage:

By installing your heat pump with Elephant Energy, you’ll automatically receive a one year warranty for labor. Our Mitsubishi heat pumps that we install also come with a 12- year manufacturer’s warranty. Plus, the Elephant Energy Maintenance + Extended Labor Warranty Packages are a great way to ensure the investment on your heat pump is well-maintained.

Elephant Energy maintenance plan

Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance guidelines while also relying on authorized service providers will preserve your warranty coverage. Remember – attempting large DIY repairs yourself or neglecting maintenance overall can void your warranty, so be sure you’re taking close care!

Maintaining your air source heat pump is crucial for maximizing its efficiency, lifespan, and performance. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you can perform basic heat pump maintenance tasks yourself and while keeping your heat pump running smoothly. However, remember to seek professional assistance for complex repairs and schedule annual servicing to address any underlying issues and ensure long-term reliability. With proper care and attention, your air source heat pump can continue to provide efficient heating and cooling for years to come.

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Ready to get started? Join us in building a brighter future by electrifying everything, starting with homes. Your choice today shapes our collective tomorrow!

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