Reversible heat pumps, used for cooling during the summer, also offer the possibility of heating rooms during the colder months. However, it is precisely during the summer—when they are still used frequently but the seasonal pressure is lower—that it is useful to perform some fundamental tests and checks, in preparation for the transition to autumn.
Performing these checks well in advance means avoiding surprises in October, when the heating system is turned back on, and ensuring optimal performance, reduced consumption, and greater home comfort.
Why check your heat pump in summer?
During the hot season, the heat pump often operates in cooling mode. This continuous use can hide latent problems that will only become apparent when the mode is changed. Checking that everything is working properly in the summer allows you to intervene calmly, avoid unexpected breakdowns, and plan any technical interventions during a less busy period for service centers.
Furthermore, testing the heating mode when the outside temperatures are still mild avoids unnecessary mechanical stress to the unit and allows you to evaluate the system's efficiency under favorable conditions.
Checklist of useful checks to perform
Here is a list of the main checks to perform:
- Heating mode test: set the unit to "heating" mode for at least 15-20 minutes. Check whether the air being blown is warm, whether the mode transitions smoothly, and whether the system is not making any unusual noises.
- Check consumption: Check electricity consumption via the display (if available) or through a smart plug meter. Abnormal consumption combined with poor performance may indicate inefficiencies or gas shortages.
- Check fans and airflow: Make sure the fans are operating properly in both modes and that there are no obstructions in the filters, vents, or ducts.
- Inspect filters and coils: The filters should be clean, as should the internal and external coils. A dirty system limits efficiency and can cause failures, especially when the pump must operate at colder outside temperatures.
- Check the drainage system: Check that the condensate drain hose is clear and functioning even in heating mode. Some models produce condensation even in winter, and a clogged hose can cause leaks or blockages.
- Check the refrigerant gas: Even if the machine operates in summer, there may be a slight leak that becomes apparent only in heating mode, when higher pressure is required. A technician can measure the pressure and detect any anomalies.
A practical example: the OneClima KHC-08RY1 heat pump
A product like the monobloc inverter air-to-water heat pump OneClima KHC-08RY1 is an ideal solution for those seeking a high-performance system year-round. Thanks to its inverter technology, it can intelligently modulate power, reducing consumption and improving comfort in every season.
Testing a system of this type in the summer allows you to verify the operation of the digital control, temperature sensors, and inversion cycle, ensuring they are ready to work effectively even at low temperatures.
When to call a technician
Some checks can be performed independently, but it is advisable to book a professional inspection at least once a year. The best time is precisely the end of summer: technicians are more available, interventions can be scheduled without urgency, and mild temperatures allow for a more precise and relaxed diagnosis of the system.
A professional check includes:
- Thorough internal cleaning.
- Refrigerant gas check.
- Thermostat and efficiency parameter calibration.
- Checking electrical connections and drains.
Preparing your heat pump for the cold season in summer is a smart investment: it allows you to face autumn with peace of mind, avoid unexpected breakdowns, and optimize consumption. A few targeted tests are all it takes to ensure your system is in good health, ready to face the coldest months with efficiency and reliability. Reliable products like those in the OneClima line, combined with regular maintenance, are the winning combination for 360-degree comfort, year-round.