Throughout the summer months, the average heat here hovers around the mid-90s. The humidity is equally bad during the summer and ranges between 74% -80%. That means that the heat index will be roughly 115 F. That kind of temperature and humidity are murder on heat pumps.
You have to run the heat pump in cooling mode 10 months out of the year. Having comprehensive routine maintenance done is very wise. Not only will we be able to catch any potential problems, but we can also make suggestions on how to make your system somewhat weatherproof or on what kind of hardier system to have us install.
Why Heat Pumps Wear Down Faster in Jacksonville
The coastal climate can overcome even the most well-built heat pump. They break down more frequently than in other parts of the country. However, you can fight back against the weather. Here’s how.
1. Humidity Accelerates Corrosion
Outdoor components of your heat pump system can rust in the corrosive air. The system’s electrical terminals will also sometimes corrode, And, the refrigerant lines can spring leaks after deteriorating.
The salt air also has a detrimental effect. As water condenses, the salt can build up on the parts inside your heat pump, eventually fouling it.
Coils take extra damage too. You can have us install corrosion-resistant equipment to help protect against this onslaught.
2. Mold and Mildew Thrive in Damp Air Handlers
The inner portion of your system is called the air handler. When the parts of the air handler collect water, mold, mildew, and other biological growths can grow. You’ll know when you get these nasty things in your system when you smell something like old socks.
That’s a signal that it’s time to call us to help not only with the heat pump but also with your indoor air quality. To keep these growths under control, try to keep the humidity in your home at 55% or less.
You can also have us install UV lights to help kill the biological growths that can cause so many problems with your system. Be sure to have us take a look at the drain pans during routine maintenance.
Remember, too, to change your system’s air filter regularly. Changing the filter a minimum of once a month is reasonable around here. Because the salt buildup can creep up on you, you should also inspect the filter at least once a week. If it’s getting clogged with particulates, especially salt, then change it immediately.
3. Extended Cooling Season = Year-Round Stress
Because the environment is so oppressive during the summer, you’re going to have to run your heat pump for extended hours every day. And, when your heat pump runs that much, the situation combines with the weather to shorten the lifespan of your heat pump. As we already said, you also have to run the system in cooling mode 10 months out of the year.
Capacitors can fail, and refrigerant can leak in several places. Compressor motors fan components might fail much more often than not. The best way to handle this is to have routine maintenance twice a year instead of just once.
When we do such maintenance, we’ll take care of:
• Replacing the filter if it needs it
• Cleaning the drains and/or hoses to make sure that water can easily get out of your system
• Installing float switches for safety if you don’t have them
• Fixing any refrigerant leaks and/or replacing worn components
• Recharging your refrigerant level
When it comes to certain addresses that are at or very near the beach, you might even need three maintenance visits a year. You can find out when we meet for the first time for discussion. We’ll never waste your time. In fact, remember our guiding principle: We’re always on time, or you won’t pay a dime!”
4. Outdoor Components Take a Beating From Florida’s Weather
The air in our city is salty enough, but when there are storms, salt water can get blown onto your outdoor components during thunderstorms and/or hurricanes. With the most serious storms, yard debris and floodwaters will wreak havoc on your system. Wiring will short, and fan blades will break off. The coil can become clogged too.
For mild salt coverings, the easiest thing to do is to hook up your hose and thoroughly wash the exterior components to the system with fresh water, particularly after a storm. Remember to turn off the power to the heat pump before spraying it. Don’t use a high-pressure power washer, or even the high-pressure adjustment on your hose, because you could damage the components. Use a low or medium setting instead.
It’s also a good idea to keep yard vegetation trimmed and to have a professional cleanup company clear your yard as soon as possible after a storm. If there is a bad storm, then it’s smart to have us come do an extra inspection thereafter.
5. Improper Drainage Creates Constant Moisture Problems
Having clean drains and hoses is essential when it comes to getting rid of the moisture that will inevitably condense inside the system. Keep your air filters clean to help with airflow, which will help prevent that moisture from freezing if you happen to have a refrigerant leak.
If you have safety switches in your system that’ll trip if you get too much water, then successfully shunting away the water will keep those switches from tripping. We can help you with the switches, too, which will protect you from the fire hazard of water-caused short circuits.
FAQs
How long should a heat pump last?
Generally, with proper care and maintenance, a heat pump should last 10-15 years. In some cases, it might last 20 years. In our climate, how long your heat pump lasts depends even more on how well you have us take care of it.
Does salt air really accelerate damage to my system?
Yes, it certainly does.
How often should I have you do maintenance on my system?
Usually, you should have us do such maintenance twice a year, once before summer and once before winter. As stated, however, if you live right on or near the beach, then you might need it three times a year.
Do I need a dehumidifier with my heat pump?
In most cases, the answer is yes. Generally, you can make do with a portable dehumidifier that you put in the same room with the heat pump’s inside components. Sometimes, though, a whole-home dehumidifier is a wise investment. We can advise you on that.
Keep Your Heat Pump Running Strong in Jacksonville’s Climate
We have the experience and smarts to handle any heat pump issues you have. From outright replacement to changing a filter, we know our stuff.
To take advantage of all the ways we can help you with a heat pump, give us a call today at One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating in Jacksonville, FL. We serve not only Jacksonville, FL. but also the surrounding areas.