How to Properly Clean Your Heat Pump?

Keeping your heat pump clean is essential for its efficiency and longevity. Whether you use it to cool your home during the summer or to keep it warm in winter, regular maintenance of your heat pump ensures it operates optimally. One of the most critical maintenance tasks is cleaning the filters, coils, and other components. This article will guide you through the process—including how to clean filters on heat pump systems—providing you with all the necessary steps to maintain its peak performance.

Why Cleaning Your Heat Pump Is Important

Heat pumps are essential for your home’s heating and cooling. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in the filters and components, reducing efficiency. Clogged filters force your heat pump to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and poorer indoor air quality. A poorly maintained heat pump can raise energy bills and contribute to indoor air pollution. Since Canadians spend about 90% of their time indoors, maintaining clean air is crucial. Regular cleaning of your heat pump—including knowing how to clean filters on heat pump units—can enhance air quality and ensure a comfortable, energy-efficient home.

how to clean filters on heat pump

Steps for Cleaning a Wall-Mounted or Central Heat Pump

Turn Off the Power

Before beginning any maintenance on your heat pump, always turn off the power. This is a crucial safety step to prevent electrical accidents.

A man is switching power off a socket

Cleaning a Wall-Mounted Heat Pump

  1. Remove the Filter: Once the power is off, carefully remove the filter from the wall-mounted unit.
  2. Vacuum the Filter: Use a vacuum cleaner or a brush to remove dust and debris from both sides of the filter.
  3. Wash with Water: Clean the filter with warm water, using a sponge or cloth to remove any remaining dirt.
  4. Air Dry the Filter: Let the filter dry completely before placing it back in the unit.

If you're not sure how to clean filters on heat pump systems properly, follow these basic steps to maintain airflow and system performance.

A technician is climbs the stirt to wall mounted heat pump

Why Regular Filter Maintenance Is Necessary

A heat pump filter works similarly to the air filter in a car, trapping dust, pollen, and other particles to ensure clean air. If left unmaintained, clogged filters can allow contaminants to circulate through your home’s air, potentially causing health issues like respiratory problems or allergies.

Filters should be replaced every six months, or more frequently if you notice they’re clogging faster than usual. Maintaining your filters not only improves air quality but also helps the system run more efficiently. Knowing how to clean filters on heat pump units yourself can save you money and extend your system’s life.

how to clean filters on heat pump

The Importance of Professional Maintenance

While cleaning the filters and other basic components can be done at home, hiring a professional for an annual check-up is essential. A trained technician will thoroughly inspect your heat pump, clean the coils, blower motor, and fan blades, and identify any potential issues before they lead to costly repairs. Additionally, some tasks, such as coil cleaning, are best left to professionals to avoid damaging sensitive parts of the unit.

If you’re unsure how to clean filters on heat pump units with reusable or specialty filters, our team can guide you or take care of it for you.

how to clean filters on heat pump

Signs of a Dirty Heat Pump

A dirty heat pump can manifest in both physical and performance-related issues. Physically, you might notice dirty air filters, dust buildup on the fins, or debris in the drain pan. Mold growth can also occur if moisture accumulates in certain areas of the system. Performance-wise, you may experience reduced cooling efficiency, strange noises, unpleasant odors, or a noticeable spike in your energy bills. These are all signs that your heat pump requires cleaning or repair.

A man is cleaning air conditioner filters

How to Clean Coils and Other Components

The evaporator and condenser coils are vital parts of your heat pump, responsible for heat exchange. Over time, these coils can become clogged with dirt, reducing the system's efficiency.

  1. Turn Off the Power: As with all cleaning tasks, ensure the power is off.
  2. Locate the Evaporator Coils: These are typically found in the indoor unit. Gently remove the access panel.
  3. Clean the Coils: Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to clean the coils, then apply a coil cleaner or a mild detergent solution.
  4. Scrub Stubborn Dirt: If needed, use a soft brush to remove any remaining debris.
A man is cleaning the coils on a brick wall background

Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Always turn off the power before cleaning your heat pump to avoid accidents. Avoid harsh chemicals; instead, use mild detergents or specialized cleaning solutions. Don’t skip professional maintenance. Regular checkups can identify issues early and save you from costly repairs. Professionals have the tools and expertise to keep your heat pump running efficiently—and they’ll know exactly how to clean filters on heat pump systems specific to your brand or model.

Best Cleaning Products on the table in the bluye background

Conclusion

Cleaning your heat pump is a vital aspect of maintenance that can lead to improved performance and energy savings. By recognizing the signs that indicate a need for cleaning and following proper cleaning procedures, you can ensure your heat pump operates efficiently for years to come. Remember to avoid common mistakes and consider professional maintenance to keep your system in top shape.

If you notice any problems with your filters, don’t hesitate to contact Eco Pro Heating &Cooling!  Our skilled technicians are here to provide prompt and reliable service tailored to your needs.

Ready to Clean, Repair, or Replace Your Heat Pump? Trust Eco Pro.

If you’ve been wondering how to clean filters on heat pump systems or suspect your unit needs more than just a quick rinse, Eco Pro Heating & Cooling is here to help. We specialize in professional heat pump cleaning, repair, and full-system replacement services for homes across North Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast.

From clogged filters to worn-out units, our experienced technicians handle everything with precision and care. We offer:

  • Thorough heat pump cleaning and indoor air quality checks
  • Next-day repairs for urgent comfort issues
  • High-efficiency replacements when it's time for an upgrade
  • Free, no-pressure quotes with up-front pricing
  • Extended in-house warranties on all services and installations

With over 42,000 homes serviced, 300+ five-star reviews, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, Eco Pro is the trusted choice for homeowners who care about comfort, efficiency, and clean air.

👉 Get a Free Quote today and let us handle the dirty work—so you don’t have to stress about how to clean filters on heat pump units ever again.