Tetra Fully Covered: Heat Pump Maintenance

tl;dr

At Tetra we think you shouldn’t sweat repairs and maintenance for your heating and cooling. That’s why we don’t just handle all of the paperwork and scheduling for your install, but that we also take care of all repairs and maintenance on your system for 10 years after your install day. No hidden fees, no surprise costs, just total peace of mind.

Overview
Additional Resources

At a glance: 

  • Tetra Fully Covered means we guarantee the performance of your system for 10 years
  • We will cover the cost of all maintenance and repair visits
  • You will need to do routine inspection and keep your unit in clean working condition in order for it to stay fully covered.

At Tetra we think you shouldn’t sweat repairs and maintenance for your heating and cooling. That’s why we don’t just handle all of the paperwork and scheduling for your install, but that we also take care of all repairs and maintenance on your system for 10 years after your install day. No hidden fees, no surprise costs, just total peace of mind. 

What does Fully Covered mean? 

Simply put, we cover everything. All repairs, tune-ups, and maintenance visits for 10 years. While other homeowners spend hundreds of dollars each year just to keep their systems running efficiently, you won’t have to pay a cent. The average homeowner can expect to spend up to $200 a year on maintenance and can see repair costs of $1,300 on average. This can lead to thousands of dollars spent over the life of your system. Not to mention higher energy bills due to your system working inefficiently. With Tetra, we cover all the costs. No out of pocket expenses, no hassle, no stress, just a comfortable home with a reliable heating and cooling system. 

How It Works

We take care of all the heavy lifting. Once your heat pump is installed, our team will create a customized service schedule tailored to your system’s needs. We’ll handle everything from routine tune-ups to emergency repairs, ensuring your system stays in peak condition. All you need to do is inspect your system from time to time, clean the filters regularly, and let us know if you spot any signs of wear, erosion, or leaks.

If there’s ever an issue, just submit a ticket on your homeowner dashboard or use this form and we’ll diagnose and fix the problem, sending in a technician as necessary. At no cost to you, of course. 

What do I need to do as a homeowner to maintain my heat pump

While the Tetra team will be doing the heavy lifting on major repairs and maintenance, there is some work you will have to do to keep your new heat pump running in tip top shape - primarily making sure to clean your filters. 

You are also expected to keep your filters clean. Keeping your filters clean not only keeps your system in working order, but also helps extend the life of your system. 

To clean your heat pump filters, first turn off your system. Then gently remove the filter and use a clean cloth to wipe off dirt. If necessary, run your filter under cold water and let it air dry before replacing it back inside the unit. 

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Here are videos to clean your filters for ductless mini split systems:

Here is a video on how to clean your filters for ducted or central heat pump systems.  

You are expected to inspect your system periodically and report to the Tetra team any signs of wear, leaks or erosion as and make sure that you report any issues in your homeowner dashboard. You can use this form to report any issues. 

Outside of that, Tetra takes care of the rest!

What to expect during your Fully Covered Visit?

Your bi-annual maintenance visit will take less than two hours to complete and your account manager will work with you to schedule it. To prepare for your Fully Covered Visit, make sure that:

  • You are home
  • The technician has access to indoors, outdoors and basement areas
  • Clear and remove any obstructions around both the indoor and outdoor units of your system. 
  • Clean around the units: Clear away leaves, dust, or debris from the surrounding area of your  units.
  • The technician will need to increase and decrease home temperatures to test system, make sure that you and whoever may be in the home during the visit are ok with this.

The technician will have all the information about your system, as well as all tools and materials required to do the visit. But if you have been noticing some issues, make sure to submit a ticket to your homeowner dashboard prior to the visit so that the technician can look into it during the visit. 

Ready to be Fully Covered? 

Tetra’s Fully Covered guarantee is more than just a promise, it’s a commitment to making your life easier. No more worrying about rising maintenance costs or surprise repair bills. You’re fully covered for 10 years, guaranteed.

If you’re ready to upgrade to a new heat pump or want more information on how Tetra’s Fully Covered guarantee works, schedule a free consultation with one of our experts today.

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FAQ

What do I need to do as a homeowner to keep my heat pump in good working order?

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

What issues am I looking for when I inspect my system?

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

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.

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.

How do I schedule annual tune-ups?

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.

Are tune-ups included in the cost of my system?

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.

Are repairs included in the cost of my system?

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

Is it really “Fully Covered”?

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.

What happens if my HVAC system breaks?

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.

What happens if I move?

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

How much does heat pump maintenance cost?

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.

What is DIY heat pump maintenance?

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.

Do heat pumps require annual maintenance?

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. 

How often should you replace HVAC air filters?

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.

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