As more UK homes and businesses switch to sustainable heating, heat pumps are quickly becoming a popular choice for year-round comfort. But like any hardworking system, a heat pump needs regular maintenance to perform at its best. So, how often should you service your heat pump – and why does it matter?

At Batchelor Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, we’re here to break it down.

Recommended Heat Pump Servicing Frequency

Once a year.

That’s the golden rule for most domestic and light commercial heat pump systems.

An annual service ensures your unit runs efficiently, helps prevent costly repairs, and prolongs the system’s lifespan. Much like a gas boiler service, it’s a small commitment that pays off long-term.

For heavily used or commercial systems, servicing every 6 months may be recommended – especially if the system is used for both heating and cooling throughout the year or operates in a dusty or demanding environment.

What Does a Heat Pump Service Include?

At Batchelor, our certified engineers carry out a full inspection to keep your system running smoothly. A typical service will include:

Checking refrigerant levels and pressure
Inspecting electrical components and connections
Cleaning filters, coils, and fans
Verifying airflow and system performance
Checking defrost cycles and thermostat settings
Identifying any wear and tear before it becomes a problem

We also make sure your unit is running safely, quietly, and as energy-efficiently as possible.

Why Regular Servicing Matters

Even though heat pumps are low maintenance, they’re not “set and forget.” Here’s what regular servicing helps you avoid:

Reduced performance and energy efficiency
Higher energy bills due to system strain
Unpleasant odours from blocked filters or mould
Breakdowns during cold snaps or heatwaves
Invalidated warranties if maintenance is skipped

Think of it as an MOT for your heating and cooling system – essential for performance and peace of mind.

Signs Your Heat Pump May Need Immediate Attention

In addition to annual servicing, watch out for these warning signs between visits.

The system isn’t heating or cooling properly
Strange noises or vibrations
Sudden spikes in your energy bills
Ice buildup on the outdoor unit
Reduced airflow indoors

If any of these occur, it’s worth booking a service sooner rather than later.

Trust Batchelor for Heat Pump Servicing Across the South East

Whether you have an air source or ground source heat pump, our team of qualified engineers provide expert servicing across domestic and commercial systems. With over 30 years of HVAC experience, we know how to keep your system in top shape – all year round.

Need to book a service? We offer one-off servicing and maintenance packages tailored to your needs.