How Often Should a Heat Pump Be Recharged?
Other People Are Reading
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Refrigerant Levels May Be Incorrect
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Refrigerant, such as Freon, is required in a heat pump for both cooling and heating. Incorrect levels cause the heat pump to be inefficient and ineffective.
Refrigerant is added in the field during installation, so it is possible to start with incorrect levels. Have the refrigerant level checked each year to assure it is within 2 oz. of manufacturer's recommendations.
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A Heat Pump is a Sealed System
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A heat pump is a sealed system, so once it is properly charged, you should not lose any refrigerant. If your home doesn't heat or cool properly, check for debris or ice on the compressor outside. If that is not your problem, have refrigerant levels checked. Systems can develop leaks that cause refrigerant levels to drop.
Bottom Line
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You do not need to recharge a heat pump on a regular basis. If you are losing refrigerant, you likely have a leak. A heat pump can function well for years with a small leak, but you will need to recharge the system annually or more often, depending on leak size.
References
- Photo Credit security and heating system image by Canakris from Fotolia.com
