A heat pump / air conditioner’s primary function is to regulate the climate inside the home, keeping spaces cool during the summer and cosy during winter. However, heat pumps / air conditioners don’t just help maintain comfort levels; With the help of filters, they can assist in maintaining a healthy environment.

Filters are an essential component of any heat pump / air conditioning unit. They typically use a mesh system that traps small particles such as pet dander and general dust. Most heat pumps /  air conditioners measure the quality of their filtration system by the standard of their mesh — the finer the mesh, the more contaminants it can capture and remove from the air. A high-quality filtration system ultimately helps your heat pump / air conditioner operate more efficiently to dispel cleaner air throughout the home.

This comes with several benefits, including:

• Reducing potential mould growth
• Removing unwanted odours
• Improving energy efficiency and reducing unwanted operating costs.

Why best heat pump / air conditioning goes beyond the mesh

Standard filtration systems rely on mesh size alone to measure a heat pump / air conditioner’s ability to trap contaminants. However, modern units contain alternative air filtration systems that improve air quality and help lead to better health.

• Electrostatic type filtration uses a safe electrostatic charge to trap the tiniest air particles and pollutant particles such as dust, pollen, or bacteria. Like a magnet, these filters can trap finer dust particles that a traditional mesh filter may miss.

• Apple-Catechin filter is an electrostatic type filter where fine dust, invisible mould spores and harmful microorganisms are absorbed onto the filter by static electricity and further growth is inhibited and deactivated by the polyphenol ingredient extracted from apples. The Fujitsu General Lifestyle range comes with a Apple-Catechin filter as standard.
  

• Long-life Ion deodorisation filter helps deodorise the air by absorbing pollutants and decomposing them through an oxidising process, effectively disinfecting and diminishing bad smells in the room. It also gathers dust, pollen, and other small particles responsible for allergies.

Of course, even the best heat pump / air conditioning filter is only as good as the attention it receives. It is important to regularly clean and maintain your filters to ensure they can operate at full capacity.

Here are three top tips for keeping your filter and air conditioning system performing at its best.

1. Clean your heat pump / air conditioning filter regularly

   Maintain a regular cleaning schedule that includes the indoor units once a month. Refer to your operating manual on how to access and remove the filter from the indoor unit. Clean the filter using a vacuum cleaner or wash the filter with mild detergent and warm water. Allow the filter to dry thoroughly before replacing it. Dust also accumulates along the grilles of the indoor unit. Gently vacuum along the grooves or wipe with a damp cloth for efficient airflow.

2. Keep the outdoor unit free from debris and obstructions

   Running a poorly maintained heat pump / air conditioner leads to inefficient operation and a bigger energy bill. Dust build-up, blockages, or foreign materials restrict airflow and force heat pump / air conditioners to work much harder to heat or cool the home. This can result in increased energy consumption and higher operating costs.

3. Allow the professionals at Fujitsu General to provide an expert service

Depending on the usage rate, a professional service is recommended every one to two years. The service involves a licensed heat pump / air conditioning technician who can conduct a system check-up and address any potential issues, such as blocked filters, before they become major problems.

For more information, visit  www.fujitsugeneral.co.nz or contact Fujitsu General on 04 568 8761.