Answer
As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop, take a few moments to make sure you and your home are ready for winter. Whether you’re new to heat pumps or already a pro, Hive is here to help you get the best out of your system.
Your pre-winter heat pump checklist
A few quick checks you can do yourself:
- Clear around the outdoor unit
- Sweep away leaves, trim back plants, and make sure there’s at least 30cm of clear space around the unit. Good airflow = better performance.
- Check your schedules
- In the Hive app, set a steady indoor temperature – 18-20°C works well for most homes. A consistent setting helps your heat pump run efficiently and keeps your home feeling just right. Want a better night’s sleep? You can drop the temperature by a degree or two overnight – it’s often more comfortable, and your heat pump will gently bring things back up in the morning.
- Bleed your radiators
- If your radiators feel patchy or cool at the top, they might need bleeding. If you’re not sure how to do it, here’s an explainer from our friends at British Gas.
- Look and listen
- Keep an eye on the heat pump display for any error codes. A bit of steam during defrost mode is normal – but if you spot persistent ice or strange noises, it’s worth getting it checked.
Top tips to get the best from your heat pump
- Set it and forget it
- Heat pumps love consistency. Set a comfortable temperature and let it tick along. They’re designed to run for longer at lower power, which is often more efficient than switching on and off.
- Use off-peak electricity wisely
- On a time-of-use tariff? Schedule hot water boosts or immersion top-ups during cheaper hours to save on running costs.
- Keep it clear
- Every few weeks, check the outdoor unit for leaves, snow or debris. Keeping it clear helps your system breathe and perform at its best.