Working With It: Operating
Maintenance
The following periodic maintenance procedures should be performed at the intervals indicated:
- Inspect the air filters every three months. A heat pump should never be operated without filters in place. How often they get replaced depends on the building occupancy.
- Check the condensate pans for proper drainage and algae growth every three months. If algae is apparent, consult a specialist for proper chemical treatment. In most cases, an application of algaecide every three months will eliminate the problem.
- Clean the water pump filter every three months.
- Service the whole system at least once a year. This should include a visual inspection, refrigerant leak test, cleaning the evaporator coil, and a check of the compressor, fan and pump motors. These values should be recorded in a log book so a deteriorating condition can be detected before component failure. Any deficiencies should be repaired.
- The refrigerant cycle should be serviced by a competent technician, preferably one who is factory trained by the manufacturer.
In all cases, reference should be made to the operating and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This information should remain with the equipment owner or operator. For more detailed information, consult the manufacturer's service instructions.
During the life of the system, emergency service will occasionally be required. Such servicing usually falls into one of three areas:
- Electrical wiring and controls;
- The heat pump unit; or
- The loop water system.
Electrical problems are the most common cause of emergency service calls. Troubleshooting a suspected electrical problem usually involves taking voltage readings at key points and comparing them to a normal reading.
Non-electric service for loop water systems should start with checking the flow rate and temperature as outlined in the operation checkout. Leaks, proper pump operation and scale in the refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger are the primary concerns. Any discrepancies should be remedied before the system is operated again.
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Learn more about:
Working With It: Troubleshooting
Resources: Incentives & Financing
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Brochures and fact sheets
GeoThermal: Bringing Comfort to Your World
By Alliant Energy
[PDF format – 7 pages, 174kb]
