What to expect from a heat pump service

Heat pumps work by extracting environmental energy (air, water or heat from the ground) which is then converted using a refrigerant inside the heat pump to generate heating and hot water for your home.

They are a more efficient method of heating your home compared to gas boilers but similarly to boilers, heat pumps still require a service. All checks on a heat pump should be carried out by a qualified MCS heating engineer.

In this guide we are going to explain the importance of having your heat pump serviced and what a service includes.

Whilst heat pumps have a robust design with very few moving parts, you should still have them serviced once a year after the initial heat pump installation. The service must be carried out by an MCS heating engineer. You can find a heat pump installer here.

We recommend having your heat pump serviced in the warmer months so when the temperatures drop in the winter, you will then be confident that your heat pump is operating at maximum efficiency.

Water source heat pumps offer an efficient energy solution for properties that are close to a body of water. They work by extracting heat from the water and turning it into energy that can be used to heat your home and supply with hot water.

If you have an open loop system, they require a regular service to ensure water is clean and can sufficiently draw and filter water to and from the main water source. The engineer will inspect to make sure everything is working properly.

The cost of heat pump service can vary depending on what system you have. A Vaillant heat pump service starts from £250 including VAT. This includes all the labour changers but additional charges may apply if replacement parts are required. To book a heat pump service contact your local renewables partner.

If your system is under warranty, then it is important to make sure the annual servicing and maintenance is carried out in order to maintain the warranty.

If you have an air source heat pump, make sure you keep the external unit clear from any garden debris. You can protect the unit further by adding a cover, such as a canopy or free standing cover.

All Vaillant heat pumps have been tried and tested in adverse weather conditions including minus temperatures. Our aroTHERM plus air source heat pump has a de-icing cycle so that when the temperature drops below a certain level, the heat pump will go into the de-icing mode, heating up and clearing the ice from the back of the unit. When this takes place, you will see steam coming from the unit, and water coming from the bottom of the heat pump.

Learn more about looking after your heat pump in the winter here.