Tetra Fully Covered: Heat Pump Maintenance

To keep your system in good working order (and covered by the Fully Covered Guarantee) - you need to do three things:

1. Inspect your system and make sure to report any issues that you see in a timely manner. 
2. Clean your heat pump filters when they get dirty. 
3. Work with your project manager to schedule your bi-annual tune-ups

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Make sure your heat pump is in good working order by doing an annual inspection of your system. Check for the following: 

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For Ducted Systems

• Inspect Evaporator Coil: Inspect the evaporator coil for dust, dirt, or debris buildup. Clean it as needed to maintain efficiency.
• Check Cabinet and Electrical Components: Inspect the cabinet for damage and the electrical components for any loose or broken wires. 
• Inspect Motor, Fan, and Blower Assembly: Annually inspect the motor, fan, and blower assembly for damage. Ensure the fan spins freely and clean the blower assembly for optimal airflow.
• Inspect Cabinet and Ductwork: Check both the external parts of the cabinet for cleanliness annually. Inspect the ductwork for leaks and repair as needed to maintain airflow efficiency.

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For all systems

• Ensure Unobstructed Airflow: Don't block vents with furniture or other items, as it reduces efficiency and lifespan. Regularly remove any debris or vegetation around your heat pump to maintain optimal airflow and prevent blockages. If there is pollen or dust build up on your unit, use room temperature water from the hose to gently remove it. 
• Check Condensate Drain: Confirm that water trickles from the indoor coil's condensate drain before cooling. Ensure it's not clogged to prevent drainage issues, especially in dry climates. Once a year, clean the condensate pan, trap, and drain lines to prevent clogs and water damage. If you live in a humid climate, you may need to do this more often.

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We only send a team when necessary to perform annual maintenance on your boiler. Your dedicated project manager will schedule your annual boiler maintenance visit a year after installation.

Absolutely. Your servicing schedule aligns with your system's needs, including tune-ups. We cover the costs, sending technicians as needed at no extra charge.

Absolutely. Boiler repairs including labor and parts are included in the cost of your system.

In short yes. Here’s what the guarantee does not cover: 

• System negligence: As outlined in this blog, you will need to perform routine inspections and clean your boiler filter. Following this will help keep your system operating at the highest efficiency and keep it eligible for The Fully Covered by Tetra Guarantee. 
• You (or anyone else!) take a baseball bat (or anything else) to your equipment and intentionally destroy it.
• Another contractor damages the equipment. If that happens, we'll fix it and they'll pick up the bill.
• There's an Act of God or extreme weather event. If that happens, we'll work with your homeowner's insurance and they'll cover it.

That's it, if there's anything else, it's on us.

Our highly trained, licensed contractors ensure proper installation and efficiency. If your system breaks, we'll promptly work with you to diagnose the issue and if necessary send a technician to handle the repair, all included with Fully Covered by Tetra at no extra charge.

Fully Covered is non-transferable. That means your coverage ends when you leave the home the system was installed at.

The cost of heat pump maintenance can vary depending on factors such as the service provider, the type of heat pump system, and any necessary repairs or replacements. On average, contractors charge $100 to $300 for a professional maintenance service. However, prices may fluctuate based on geographic location and additional services required. This tune up or maintenance visit would cover such tasks such as cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting electrical connections. Repair visits typically cost more and range from $500-$2000+. When you buy your heat pump from Tetra, all service, maintenance, and repair visits and costs are fully covered. No worrying about surprise costs or fees for the life of your system.

DIY heat pump maintenance refers to the tasks that homeowners can perform themselves to keep their heat pump systems in good working condition. This may include cleaning or replacing air filters, clearing debris from outdoor units, inspecting ductwork for leaks, and ensuring proper airflow around the indoor and outdoor units. These maintenance tasks can be safely completed by homeowners, however it's essential to closely follow manufacturer guidelines and take required safety precautions.

Yes, heat pumps do require routine maintenance to keep them operating efficiently and to prevent potential problems. Routine maintenance can be done by most homeowners and includes cleaning air filters and ensuring that nothing obstructs airflow. Routine maintenance helps extend the lifespan of the system, improve energy efficiency, and minimize the risk of costly repairs. Additionally, regular servicing by a professional HVAC technician is required at least once every three years, and potentially sooner depending on the type and age of your system and the climate. 

HVAC air filters should be checked monthly and replaced every 1-3 months, depending on factors like filter type, system usage, and whether you have pets or allergies. Regular replacement ensures optimal airflow and system efficiency.