Common Questions
Heat Pump Servicing FAQ
Everything you need to know about heat pump servicing in Ireland.
How often should I service my heat pump?
Heat pumps should be serviced annually to maintain peak efficiency and keep your manufacturer warranty valid. Most manufacturers require annual professional servicing as a condition of warranty coverage.
What happens during a heat pump service?
Our F-Gas certified technician performs a comprehensive inspection including refrigerant levels and leak detection, electrical connections, filter condition, airflow, and overall performance. You receive a detailed service report documenting all findings.
How long does a heat pump service take?
A standard annual service takes 45–60 minutes depending on your system type and accessibility. This includes a full inspection, testing, filter cleaning, and providing your service report. If we find issues requiring repair, we'll explain the problem and provide a quote before any additional work.
How much does heat pump servicing cost in Ireland?
Annual heat pump servicing starts from €229. This includes a full system inspection, refrigerant check, filter cleaning, and efficiency report. Repair costs vary depending on the issue, we always provide upfront quotes.
Can I service my heat pump myself?
You can do basic maintenance: clean or replace filters monthly, keep the outdoor unit clear of debris, and ensure vents aren't blocked. However, annual professional servicing is essential and legally required for any refrigerant system work under F-Gas regulations. Only certified technicians can check refrigerant levels, electrical components, and perform the comprehensive inspection needed to maintain your warranty.
Do I need to service my heat pump to keep the warranty?
Yes, virtually all manufacturers including Daikin, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Vaillant, and Grant require annual professional servicing as a condition of warranty coverage. Skipping even one year can void your warranty. Our service reports are accepted by all major manufacturers.
What happens if I don't service my heat pump?
Without annual servicing, you risk three major consequences: warranty voiding (most manufacturers require professional annual service), efficiency loss of 10–25% (on a €1,500 annual bill, that's €150–375 wasted each year), and undetected faults developing into costly repairs. In Ireland, F-Gas regulations also require certified technicians for refrigerant system checks.
How do I know if my heat pump needs servicing?
Key warning signs include: increased energy bills without changes in usage, the system running constantly or cycling frequently, reduced heating output, unusual noises during operation, ice buildup on the outdoor unit, and error codes on your controller. If your last service was over 12 months ago, it's time to book.
My heat pump is making strange noises - should I be worried?
Some sounds are normal: a gentle hum during operation, whooshing during defrost, and clicking when starting up. However, grinding, screeching, rattling, or banging noises indicate a problem, possibly a failing fan motor, loose components, or compressor issues. Turn off the system and book a service call to prevent further damage.
Why is there ice or steam coming from my outdoor unit?
This is usually normal! Heat pumps extract heat from outside air, causing moisture to freeze on the coils. The unit regularly runs a defrost cycle, melting the ice and creating steam, this can look alarming but it's working correctly. However, if ice builds up constantly and never clears, or covers the entire unit, there's likely a fault with the defrost system that needs attention.
My heat pump shows an error code - what should I do?
Note down the exact error code displayed, then try resetting the system by switching it off at the isolator for 60 seconds. If the error returns after restart, don't keep resetting, this won't fix the underlying issue and may cause further problems. Contact us with the error code and we can often diagnose the likely cause before attending.
My heat pump isn't heating as well as it used to - what's wrong?
Reduced heating performance usually stems from: dirty filters restricting airflow, low refrigerant levels from a leak, blocked outdoor unit (leaves, debris, snow), incorrect system settings, or component wear. Sometimes it's simply that weather compensation is adjusting output based on outdoor temperature, which is normal. A diagnostic service visit will identify the exact cause.
My hot water isn't as hot as it used to be - is it the heat pump?
Possibly. Heat pumps typically heat water to 50–55°C, which is sufficient but feels cooler than traditional boilers at 60–65°C. If there's been a noticeable change, check the cylinder thermostat setting first. Causes include: incorrect heat pump settings, a failing immersion backup, scaled-up cylinder coil, or refrigerant issues. We'll diagnose whether it's the heat pump, cylinder, or settings during a service visit.
Why are my energy bills high even with a heat pump?
Heat pumps are efficient but won't save money if incorrectly set up. Common causes of high bills: running in 'emergency' or backup electric mode, flow temperatures set too high (should be 35–45°C for underfloor, 45–55°C for radiators), poor insulation meaning the system works harder, or weather compensation disabled. A service visit includes checking these settings and optimising for efficiency.
Does my heat pump work in very cold weather?
Modern air-source heat pumps work efficiently down to -15°C to -20°C. In Ireland's climate, your heat pump will operate year-round without issue. Efficiency does decrease slightly in colder temperatures, which is why correct system sizing and settings are important. Ground-source heat pumps maintain consistent efficiency regardless of air temperature.
Do you offer emergency call-outs?
Yes, we provide emergency heat pump repairs across Ireland. We understand that losing heating, especially in winter, is urgent. Contact us and we'll prioritise getting your system running again as quickly as possible. For existing service plan customers, emergency calls are prioritised.
Will you have the parts if something needs replacing?
We carry common replacement parts including filters, contactors, capacitors, and sensors. For major components or brand-specific parts, we can typically source and fit them within 2–5 working days. We'll always inform you of parts availability and timescales before proceeding with any repair.
What brands do you service?
We service all major heat pump brands across Ireland including Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, Vaillant, Grant, Samsung, LG, Hitachi, Toshiba, and all other manufacturers.
Do you cover my area in Ireland?
Yes, we provide nationwide coverage across all of Ireland, Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford, and all rural areas. Book online and we'll arrange a convenient time for your service.
How long should my heat pump last?
A well-maintained heat pump typically lasts 15–20 years, with some lasting 25+ years. The key to longevity is annual servicing, neglected systems often fail within 8–10 years. Components like compressors and fans may need replacement during the system's lifetime, but these are routine repairs, not system replacements.