Heat Pump Installation Near St. Louis, MO

Changing your air filter regularly, keeping the outdoor unit clear of leaves and debris, and scheduling an annual professional tune-up are the most effective ways to catch small issues before they become costly repairs.

A cover is not necessary and can actually trap moisture or restrict airflow if left on while the unit is running. Keeping the area around the unit clear of debris and snow is more effective than covering it.

Most heat pumps are designed to switch to auxiliary or emergency heat automatically once outdoor temperatures drop low enough that the heat pump alone cannot keep up. You generally do not need to switch it manually unless your system indicates a fault.

Refrigerant leaks, a failing reversing valve, a worn contactor or capacitor, and frozen outdoor coils are among the issues we see most often on service calls.

We do not recommend it. Heat pumps use pressurized refrigerant and electrical components that require licensing and specialized tools to service safely, and an incorrect repair can shorten the life of the system.

This is often caused by low refrigerant, a failing reversing valve, a dirty filter, or a thermostat that is not communicating with the system correctly. An Academy Air technician can quickly narrow down the cause.

No, it is not necessary to cover your outdoor heat pump. Heat pumps are designed to withstand the elements and covering it can actually interfere with the system and result in adverse effects.

If your heat pump isn’t keeping you comfortable, there is a good chance that it was not sized correctly for your home. Oversized units can create bursts of warm or cold air, misdirecting your thermostat to shut off the system before the whole house reaches the desired temperature. Undersized units on the other hand, may not be able to generate the cooling capacity required for your space. In either instance, if your heat pump isn’t keeping you comfortable, call Academy Air to have a heating and cooling expert diagnose the issue.

Yes! Regularly scheduled maintenance, as mentioned above, is the best way to ensure that your system remains in top working condition and reduces the likelihood of breakdowns or repairs. Additionally, you should make sure to keep all outdoor components free of debris build-up, which can reduce air flow and cause overheating. Finally, be sure to inspect fittings and connections for any signs of damage or leaks. Taking these simple steps can help save you both time and money in the long run.

No, you should avoid switching to emergency heat below 35 degrees. Heat pumps can still provide adequate heat down to negative 10 degrees. The heat pump and the electric back-up heat work automatically. In the event you have oil or gas back-up, you can switch to emergency heat for more comfort, if needed, but be advised it is much less efficient.

The most common issues with heat pumps include cold air blowing in heat mode, the outdoor unit being blocked, your pump running constantly (even in moderate weather), and the outdoor unit freezing. If you are experiencing any of these issues, call Academy Air Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric to have a heating expert take a look at your heat pump and diagnose the issue. Your expert will even be able to provide you with a free price quote.

No, you should never repair your own heat pump. Our technicians are required to undergo the proper training and certification processes that provide them with the skills and tools required to properly repair a heat pump. Most importantly, heat pumps run on 240 volts, if not carefully handled, they can cause severe shock or electrocution. If you suspect your heat pump may need a repair, call Academy Air Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric to have a professional heating and cooling expert get the job done safely and correctly.

A heat pump is an energy-efficient heating and cooling system that works by moving warm air from one area to another, creating a comfortable environment for your home or office. Heat pumps use electricity to move the air outside of your home, drawing in colder air from the surrounding area. The compressor then compresses the cold air which increases its temperature before releasing it into your home. This process can also be reversed to provide cooling during hot summer months.

The specific type of installation required will depend on the size, model and age of the unit as well as other factors such as existing ductwork, insulation and local codes. Generally speaking, there are two main types of installations: retrofit and all-new systems. A retrofit typically requires only minor modifications to your existing system whereas an all-new installation may require more extensive work such as installing additional ducts or equipment.

SEER and HSPF are efficiency ratings assigned to a heat pump. The difference between them is the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating measures the efficiency of a heat pump in cooling mode while the HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) rating measures the efficiency of a heat pump in heating mode. The higher the SEER and HSPF number, the more efficient the unit will be in each designated mode.

The average lifespan of a heat pump built between the 1970s through 1980s is generally about 15 years, with newer units being able to last even longer. The main determining factor in how long your heat pump will last is how well you maintain it. It is critical to have Academy Air Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric perform preventative maintenance at least once a year to keep your pump in prime condition.

There is a few indications you can look for as to when you should replace your heat pump. The first being when the system starts giving you more problems than are cost-effective to fix. Other indicators are if the unit is approaching ten years in age and major components are failing. If you suspect that it may be time to replace your heat pump, just give Academy Air Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric a call to have someone assess your pump and help guide you in the direction of repair or replacement.

You should clean your heat pump as often as every eight to 12 weeks depending on how frequently you use your pump. Fortunately, cleaning your heat pump is a quick and easy process that any homeowner can do, especially in between routine maintenance. All you need to do is open the front panel of your indoor unit, remove them, and give them a thorough cleaning. To schedule your yearly heat pump tune-up, call (314) 770-9800 to get started.