The crisp air, the golden trees, the smell of rain, it’s officially fall in the Pacific Northwest. As the weather shifts, so do our comfort needs at home. Around this time, many Seattle-area homeowners start noticing their heat pumps switching gears from cooling to heating. But here’s the thing: not everyone adjusts their heat pump settings properly for the new season. A few small tweaks can make a big difference in comfort, efficiency, and even system longevity.
At BelRed Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we’ve spent nearly four decades helping homeowners get the most from their heating and cooling systems. Whether it’s a quick heat pump maintenance and tune-up, a repair, or a brand-new installation, we know what it takes to keep your home warm and efficient all season long. So, before you settle in for sweater weather, let’s talk about how to make sure your heat pump is running at its best this fall.
Tip #1: Avoid Auto Settings for Better Control
A lot of homeowners glance at their thermostat and assume the “Auto” option is the simplest way to keep their home comfortable. In reality, that setting can cause your heat pump to switch modes when you don’t actually want it to. You might be enjoying a warm home on a crisp fall morning, only for a burst of unexpected cooling to kick in when the sun comes out. It catches people off guard more often than you’d think.
A better approach is to choose the mode that matches the season and stick with it. Use “Heat” in the colder months so your system focuses on steady, consistent warmth. When warmer weather returns, rely on your dedicated cooling modes for comfort. If you have a smart thermostat, you can still create schedules and temperature adjustments that fit your routine, all without the system flipping between heating and cooling unexpectedly. It’s a simple habit that keeps your heat pump working efficiently and helps maintain the comfort level you actually want.
Tip #2: Fine-Tune Your Fan Speed for Optimal Airflow
Proper heat pump air flow makes a world of difference in comfort and efficiency. Many systems allow you to adjust the fan speed, but not everyone takes advantage of it. If your fan is set too high, the air may feel drafty. Too low, and it might not circulate heat evenly.
Here’s what we recommend for optimal fan speed:
- Use the “Auto” fan setting most of the time. This lets the system control the fan automatically, improving efficiency.
- If you have hot or cold spots, try switching to a low continuous fan speed to even out the temperature.
- Don’t forget to keep vents open and unblocked to maintain optimal heat pump air flow throughout your home.
If your fan seems louder than usual or your home doesn’t feel evenly heated, it could be a sign that your heat pump filters need attention, or that it’s time for a tune-up from BelRed’s technicians.
Tip #3: Keep Your Filters Clean and Replace Them Regularly
Few things affect your system’s efficiency as much as dirty filters. When your heat pump filters get clogged, airflow slows down, which forces your system to work harder. That means higher energy bills, uneven heating, and in some cases, frozen coils. Replacing filters is a simple task that pays off big in performance and longevity.
A good rule of thumb is to replace your filters every one to three months, depending on usage and whether you have pets or allergies. To help you remember, try setting a calendar reminder or linking it to another household task, like changing smoke detector batteries or checking salt levels in your water softener.
Here’s why this matters:
- Clean filters protect your system from unnecessary strain.
- They improve indoor air quality for your family.
- They help maintain optimal heat pump air flow and keep the system heating efficiently.
If you notice excessive dust or unusual smells from your vents, it’s a good time to check those filters, or give us a call for a heat pump maintenance and tune-up.
Tip #4: Maintain Clear Space Around Your Outdoor Unit
Your heat pump outdoor unit needs room to breathe. In the fall, that can be a challenge with all the leaves, pine needles, and branches that blow around. A little seasonal maintenance goes a long way here.
Make sure to:
- Keep at least two feet of clearance around the outdoor unit.
- Remove leaves, twigs, or debris that may have built up on or around it.
- Check that your downspouts and gutters aren’t draining water toward the unit.
If airflow around the outdoor unit is restricted, your heat pump won’t operate efficiently—and in colder weather, that can even contribute to ice buildup or frozen pipes nearby. A clean and clear space keeps your system healthy and efficient all season long.
Tip #5: Schedule a Professional Heat Pump Tune-Up
You can adjust thermostat settings and clean filters on your own, but when it comes to fine-tuning performance, nothing beats a professional inspection. Fall is the ideal time to book your annual heat pump maintenance and tune-up before the colder months set in.
During a BelRed tune-up, our NATE-certified technicians will:
- Check refrigerant levels and test system pressure.
- Inspect electrical connections and safety controls.
- Clean coils and filters for maximum airflow.
- Calibrate your thermostat for accurate performance.
- Ensure the system runs safely and efficiently.
Regular maintenance not only helps prevent mid-season breakdowns but also extends the lifespan of your equipment. And if our technicians spot a potential issue, they can handle heat pump repair before it becomes a bigger (and more expensive) problem.
Understanding Your Heat Pump’s Defrost Cycle
When temperatures drop, you might notice your outdoor unit steaming or even frosting over for a short time. Don’t panic, that’s your heat pump’s defrost cycle doing its job. Heat pumps naturally collect moisture on their outdoor coils, and in cold weather, that moisture can freeze. To combat this, the system periodically switches into a short cooling mode to melt the ice, then goes right back to heating.
However, if your unit seems to be defrosting too often, or ice lingers after the cycle ends, it could indicate restricted airflow or a malfunctioning sensor. Keeping your outdoor unit clear and scheduling regular service helps prevent excessive ice buildup and protects against potential frozen pipes nearby.
Pairing Your Heat Pump With a Smart Thermostat
If you haven’t upgraded your thermostat yet, now’s the time. A smart thermostat pairs beautifully with a modern heat pump system, giving you more control and insight into your energy use. These devices learn your preferences, automatically adjust for efficiency, and can even detect when you’re away to lower your energy consumption.
Benefits of using a smart thermostat include:
- Automated thermostat settings that adjust for comfort and savings.
- Remote access from your phone for quick adjustments.
- Energy reports to help you spot usage trends.
- Integration with home automation systems for added convenience.
BelRed’s technicians can help you choose and install a smart thermostat that works seamlessly with your system. Together, these upgrades create a home that’s not only cozy but also remarkably efficient through every season.
Fall Maintenance for Long-Term Efficiency
Fall is also the perfect time to look at the bigger picture of home comfort. Beyond thermostat tweaks and heat pump settings, consider scheduling a comprehensive home energy audit or system evaluation. At BelRed, we often find that small improvements, like sealing ducts or upgrading insulation, make a big difference in heating performance.
Here’s what proactive homeowners often check before winter:
- Ductwork for leaks or blockages.
- Window and door seals for drafts.
- Crawl spaces for moisture issues.
- Insulation levels in attics and walls.
By addressing these areas early, you help your heat pump run more efficiently all winter long. It’s all part of taking care of your home as a complete comfort system, not just a collection of parts.
Contact BelRed Today for Professional Heat Pump Services in the Greater Seattle Area
If you’re ready to get your system fall-ready, our team at BelRed Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is here to help. We’ve been serving homeowners across the Greater Seattle area for more than 35 years, and we know exactly how to keep local homes comfortable through every season.
Whether you need heat pump installation, repair, or maintenance, we promise expert service, honest pricing, and guaranteed results. Contact us today to schedule your seasonal tune-up or learn how to make your system run more efficiently this fall, and stay cozy all winter long.
