Ductless heat pump best practices to share with customers


Ductless heat pumps deliver high efficiency and comfort when they’re set up and used correctly. As an Energy Trust trade ally, you play an important role in helping customers get the most out of their systems long after installation.

Below are best practices you can share with customers to improve performance, maximize energy savings and extend the life of their ductless heat pumps.

  • Set the fan speed to AUTO: This allows the system to adjust fan speed based on heating or cooling demand, which helps maintain comfort while operating more efficiently.
  • Select HEAT or COOL, not AUTO mode: The AUTO operation mode can reduce efficiency. Recommend that customers manually select HEAT in the winter and COOL in the summer. This allows the system to focus on the correct function for the season and operate more efficiently.
  • Use programmable or smart thermostat features: When away, setting the temperature 4 to 8 degrees lower than normal, or using an Eco or Away mode, can reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort or system efficiency.
  • Optimize airflow direction: Indoor units should be aimed toward the largest open area or space farthest from the unit and away from walls, furniture or other obstructions.
  • Keep dust filters clean: Dirty filters reduce airflow and system performance. Encourage customers to check filters regularly and clean or replace them when they become visibly dirty or when the indicator light turns on.
  • Keep outdoor units clear: Outdoor units need room to breathe. Advise customers to keep shrubs and plants trimmed back, to remove leaves or debris and to clear snow drifts away from the unit. It’s normal for snow or ice to accumulate on the unit itself.

Following these best practices helps customers improve system performance, reduce energy use and extend the life of their equipment.

Want to help customers save even more? Encourage them to check the Energy Trust website for current ductless heat pump incentives and eligibility requirements.