How to Make the Most of Your Heat Pump in Spring

Spring in New Zealand has a habit of keeping us on our toes. One day feels like summer is already here, the next feels like winter never left. That unpredictability makes this the ideal season to get more familiar with your heat pump’s versatility.

Rather than relying on it the same way you did during winter, spring is the time to adjust how you use it, keep it running efficiently, and make sure it’s ready for the hotter months ahead. A few small tweaks can save on energy bills, improve indoor comfort, and even extend the life of your system.

Here’s how to get the most from your heat pump this spring and why it pays to give it a little seasonal attention.

 

Explore the Different Modes

 

Spring weather has a reputation for being unpredictable, which makes your heat pump’s different modes more valuable than ever. Instead of sticking with one default setting, learning how and when to switch modes will help you stay comfortable while keeping energy use under control.

On cooler mornings, heating mode will quickly take the chill off without needing to turn the system up to extreme temperatures. As the day warms, cooling mode can help keep things comfortable, but it’s often unnecessary to run it at full power. A few degrees of cooling is usually enough to stop your home from feeling stuffy. For days that aren’t particularly hot or cold, fan mode is a great option. It circulates air through the room without using as much energy as heating or cooling, so you get better airflow without the extra cost.

Dry mode is another underrated feature, especially during those humid spring spells. Reducing moisture in the air helps your home feel fresher and avoids that sticky, uncomfortable feeling. Lower humidity can also protect soft furnishings and stop mould from getting a foothold.

By using each mode thoughtfully, you’ll avoid overworking your system, reduce unnecessary power use, and stay comfortable no matter what spring decides to throw at you. Think of it less as “set and forget” and more as making small, seasonal adjustments that add up to better performance and lower running costs.

 

Give your Heat Pump a Spring Clean 

 

Spring cleaning isn’t only for overflowing wardrobes and dust-collecting shelves. Your heat pump deserves a place on that checklist, too. After months of heavy winter use, filters, coils, and outdoor units can accumulate dust, dirt, and debris that affect performance and efficiency. Neglecting this build-up forces your system to work harder, driving up power costs and shortening its lifespan.

Start indoors by checking the filters. Most models allow easy removal, and a light vacuum or rinse under lukewarm water can restore airflow. Clean filters not only improve efficiency but also enhance the air quality in your home, something that becomes especially noticeable when pollen and dust are floating around in spring.

Don’t forget the outdoor unit. Check that leaves, weeds, and general garden debris aren’t blocking airflow. Even small obstructions can reduce efficiency or cause the unit to overheat. If the area is prone to build-up, consider making outdoor checks part of your regular routine.

Of course, a DIY clean can only go so far. Booking a professional heat pump service in spring ensures deeper checks are carried out, including refrigerant pressure testing, electrical inspections, and drainage cleaning. 

 

Maximise Efficiency with Smart Habits

 

Owning a heat pump isn’t just about flicking it on and hoping for the best. The way you use it day to day has a direct impact on how much energy it consumes and how well it performs. Spring is the perfect time to reset those habits.

Start with room size and doors. Heat pumps are designed to work most efficiently when they’re only conditioning the space they’re installed in. Closing doors to unused rooms keeps the system focused and prevents it from working harder than necessary. Likewise, don’t block the indoor unit with furniture or curtains, as this restricts airflow and reduces effectiveness.

Curtains and blinds can also play a role. In the mornings, open them up to let the sun naturally warm your home, then rely on your heat pump less. In the afternoons, closing them can stop heat from building up indoors, meaning your cooling mode doesn’t need to run as long. It’s a simple way to take pressure off the system.

Timers are another underused feature that make a noticeable difference. Setting your heat pump to switch on just before you get home, or to power down once everyone is asleep, keeps comfort high without wasting energy. Instead of running the system for hours unnecessarily, you’re only using it when it matters.

Making small behavioural changes like these not only saves money but also reduces wear on the system. A heat pump that’s supported by good habits will last longer, need fewer repairs, and keep running at peak efficiency throughout the seasons.

 

Ready to Get the Best Out of Spring? 

 

Spring is the season of in-betweens, and your heat pump is the tool that makes it easy to handle the sudden shifts in temperature. With a bit of cleaning, smarter settings, and some thoughtful habits, you can keep your home comfortable while trimming down your energy use. Add in a professional service, and you’re setting your system up for a smoother run into summer.

At Fonko, we specialise in keeping heat pumps at their best, whether it’s routine maintenance, repairs, or advice on getting the most out of your unit. Our experienced technicians work across Auckland, making it easy to book a service that suits your schedule.

Don’t wait until the next temperature swing catches you off guard. Reach out to Fonko today and enjoy a season of reliable comfort, fresh air, and lower energy bills.

 

Spring Heat Pump FAQs

Do I still need heat pump servicing in spring if it worked fine through winter?

Yes. Even if your system performed well during the colder months, spring is the ideal time to book heat pump maintenance. A professional service ensures the filters, coils, and drains are clean, and that everything is ready for the warmer weather ahead. Preventative checks now help avoid unexpected issues when demand shifts from heating to cooling.

What should I do if my heat pump isn’t cooling properly in spring?

A broken heat pump or one struggling to cool could be caused by dirty filters, blocked outdoor units, or refrigerant issues. Start with a simple filter clean, but if the problem persists, call Fonko. It’s better to get it sorted now in an intermediate season than in the Summer. 

What temperature should I set my heat pump to during spring?

Spring isn’t about extremes. For comfort and efficiency, keep your unit between 18 and 22 degrees. Use fan mode for mild days, dry mode for humidity, and avoid cranking the system to its highest or lowest settings. 

Why does my heat pump smell strange when I switch to cooling in spring?

A musty odour often means dust, dirt, or moisture has built up inside the system. Cleaning the filters can help, but if the smell lingers, it could indicate a drainage or mould issue. That’s when it’s time to book professional heat pump maintenance.