Your Pre-Winter Heat Pump Checklist

[BACK]
Your Pre-Winter Heat Pump Checklist

---

As temperatures begin to fall in the Durham Region and Toronto, now is the perfect time to make sure your heat pump is ready for the demands of winter.

A little preparation before the cold arrives can improve efficiency, prevent surprises, and keep your home consistently comfortable all season long.

Here’s a practical, easy-to-follow pre-winter heat pump checklist to help you get the most from your system.

1.

Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit

Before snow and ice become a daily challenge, check the outdoor heat pump unit.

Make sure it’s clear from anything that could block airflow.

Look for and remove:

Leaves and twigs

Overgrown plants

Dirt or debris around the base

A clear, open area helps the unit operate efficiently throughout winter.

2.

Replace or Clean Air Filters

Your heat pump’s air filter plays a major role in both performance and indoor air quality.

Dirty filters restrict airflow and force the system to work harder.

Check the filter now, and plan to replace or clean it every 4–6 weeks during winter.

3.

Ensure Vents and Indoor Units Are Unblocked

Whether you have a ducted heat pump or ductless mini-splits, make sure nothing is blocking airflow indoors.

Furniture, curtains, or decor placed too close to vents or wall units can reduce efficiency and create uneven heating.

Even a few inches of clearance can make a noticeable difference.

4.

Double-Check Thermostat Settings

Before winter starts, ensure your thermostat is set up properly for cold weather.

Use HEAT mode, and avoid the “AUTO” temperature mode if possible, as it can sometimes cause the system to switch unexpectedly.

If you have a programmable thermostat, adjusting schedules now can save you money later.

5.

Check Drainage and Condensate Lines

During operation, heat pumps create condensation.

Make sure the condensate line is clear and draining properly.

A quick inspection now helps prevent leaks or moisture issues once the system is running more frequently.

6.

Test the System Before Freezing Temperatures Hit

Turn on your heat pump before the first true cold spell.

This gives you time to notice anything unusual, such as strange noises, weak airflow, or temperature irregularities.

If anything feels off, it’s better to fix it now than during a January cold snap.

7.

Clean the Indoor Coil (or Have It Professionally Cleaned)

Dust buildup on the indoor coil can affect performance and air quality.

Some light dust can be wiped from accessible areas, but deeper cleaning should be handled by a technician to avoid damaging delicate components.

A clean coil improves efficiency and helps the system heat more evenly.

8.

Inspect the Outdoor Unit for Leveling and Stability

Heat pumps work best when the outdoor unit sits level on its pad.

Over time, soil can shift, causing the unit to tilt.

A slight adjustment now can protect the compressor and improve performance during winter’s demanding conditions.

9.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Even with great at-home care, nothing replaces a professional tune-up.

A technician will inspect electrical components, test operation, clean internal parts, and ensure everything is winter-ready.

At Twintech Heating & Cooling, we prepare heat pumps across Durham Region and Toronto so homeowners stay comfortable regardless of how cold it gets.

Stay Comfortable, Efficient, and Winter-Ready

A few quick checks now can help prevent mid-winter breakdowns and keep your heat pump running efficiently all season.

If you’d like help preparing your system or want a full winter tune-up, Twintech Heating & Cooling is here to keep your home warm and worry-free.

[BACK]