Heat pumps are more efficient than gas boilers even in the cold weather. They can operate in freezing temperatures we very rarely experience in Cornwall – some say up to -23 degrees!
If you are not used to heat pump heating, and you want to know how to use it in freezing weather, here are some top tips:
1. Leave the control settings to those set by the service engineer. Maintain a constant even heat throughout the house and let the air flow between rooms as much as possible.
2. Make sure the outside fan is clear from leaves, rubbish or any winter debris and do not cover the fan unit or store anything in front or behind the fan – it needs to pull in the outside air to create your heat (even the cold air!).
3. Have a look to see if the outside pipe insulation has been dislodged or removed by curious pets or children. (Obviously it’s important not to let these things happen, but our beloveds do when we look away for just a moment). If you can safely, reapply it to the pipe.
Your annual heat pump service is really important. This is when the engineer will check the control settings and the anti-freeze in the outside unit. This might not feel important in the summer months if that’s when your heat pump service is scheduled – but don’t miss the annual service as the engineers are busy in the winter and you don’t want to be without heating in freezing temperatures if you can help it!
Email: info@cornwallhousing.org.uk
Telephone: 0300 1234 161
