You don’t need to wait for winter to start saving on your energy bills, as spring offers hidden opportunities. If you have a heat pump, this time of year is ideal for fine-tuning how it runs.
Unlike traditional boilers, heat pumps are designed to maintain a steady, efficient temperature. With a few smart adjustments, you can reduce your energy use while keeping your home comfortable.
Reduce your temperature instead of switching it off
As the warmer weather approaches, your heat pump doesn’t need to work as hard but it’s best not to turn it off, as that’s how it stays the most efficient. Modern systems from brands like Vaillant and Viessmann are designed to operate most efficiently at consistent, lower temperatures. So you could:
- Reduce your thermostat by 1-2°C
- Let the system run steadily rather than stopping and starting
- Avoid big temperature swings
Don’t just focus on off-peak hours
You may be tempted to only run your system during cheaper, off-peak times, but heat pumps don’t behave like traditional electric heating. They perform best when running continuously at a low temperature. And in fact, turning your heat pump on and off can actually reduce its efficiency.
Systems from the likes of Grant and Glen Dimplex often include controls that help balance efficiency with energy tariffs.
Use smart controls
Spring is the perfect time to adjust how you’re using your heat pump every day. Using smart controls you can set schedules based on when you’re home, lower the heat in rooms you’re not using and turn it down when it’s warm outside.
Take advantage of warmer weather
There are plenty of ways you can use the warmth outside to compensate for turning your heat pump down. Let the sunlight warm your home during the day and open the windows briefly to refresh the air without overcooling. At night, keep windows and curtains shut to maintain the heat.
Give your heat pump a spring check
After a busy winter, a quick check over your heat pump can keep it running efficiently. A couple of things you can do are:
- Clear debris from the outdoor unit
- Check airflow isn’t blocked
- Make sure settings and schedules are up to date
- Listen for any unusual noises
The key is to let your heat pump do what it does best: run efficiently in the background.
