Well, folks, the clocks have gone back, the kettle’s working overtime, and its officially jumper weather. If you’re lucky enough to have a heat pump, now’s the time to make sure it’s ready to keep your home warm and toasty while the weather outside does its best impression of an ice rink.

We’ve come up with some cracking tips to help you run your heat pump efficiently this winter – and maybe even save a few quid while you’re at it.

Give Your Heat Pump a Pre-Season MOT

Before the frost bites harder than a December walk in Sheffield, it’s worth checking that your heat pump is ready to roll.

  • Turn it on: First things first, if you haven’t already then fire it up and make sure it’s all systems go. If you hear anything dodgy, like a clank that makes you think it’s auditioning for The Repair Shop, it might be time to check your warranty.
  • Clear the decks: Have a quick nosy at the outdoor unit. Leaves, twigs, or a piece of Lego that’s gone rogue (it happens!) – clear them out so the pump can breathe.
  • Check your settings: Give your thermostat a once-over and make sure your heating schedule is as spot-on as Mary Berry’s Victoria sponge.
  • Check your filters: Clear out any debris that might be blocking them, it’s easy to do and may save an engineer call-out for this simple fix.

Cold Snap? Don’t Panic

When it’s freezing outside, your home might lose a degree or two more than usual, especially overnight. Don’t be tempted to crank the thermostat up to “beach holiday” mode – instead, follow these tips:

Let your heat pump do its thing

Using weather compensation, these clever machines adjust themselves based on the weather outside. So, if your radiators feel cooler than usual, it’s not because they’re lazy – it’s because they’re being energy-savvy.

Set a “background” temperature

Keep your heating on overnight at a slightly lower temperature. For example, if you like 20°C during the day, try setting it to 18°C at night. This helps your heat pump avoid the shock of heating up a freezing house in the morning. Read our blog – Understanding Your Heat Curve.

Be a tariff ninja

If you’re on a smart tariff (hello, off-peak savings!), try running your heat pump when electricity is cheaper. It’s like nipping into Greggs five minutes before closing for the best deals. Read our blog about understanding the different Heat Pump tarriffs available in the UK.

Why does my heat pump look like it’s smoking!?

Before you call the fire brigade, let’s clear this one up: your heat pump is not on fire. What you’re seeing is steam caused by the defrost cycle, where the heat pump clears frost from its outdoor bits. It’s completely normal, lasts about 10 minutes, and gives your heat pump a bit of a winter refresh. The radiators might cool down slightly during this, but don’t worry – they’ll be back to business in no time.

Your Heat Pump Winter Checklist

  • Keep it clear: Snow, ice, or a sneaky crisp packet caught in the wind – anything blocking the outdoor unit is a no-go.
  • Watch your bills: A sudden spike in energy use could mean your settings need tweaking.
  • Stay Cosy, Stay Efficient: Check your tariff to see if you are eligible for one of the many new heat pump tariffs on the market.

With a bit of TLC, your heat pump will keep your home as snug as a pub with a roaring fire – and much cheaper than cranking up an old electric heater. Got questions or need more tips? Get in touch.

Winter doesn’t have to mean battling drafts in your dressing gown. Get your heat pump sorted, stick the kettle on, and enjoy a warm, energy-efficient home all season long. Now, off you pop – there’s a cuppa waiting!