A heat pump is already efficient by design — these habits help you get the absolute most out of it.
Written by the March Technology Technical Team · Last Updated: July 2026 · 5 min read
Setting your thermostat to a sensible, comfortable temperature rather than the maximum makes a noticeable difference over a year — every extra degree costs more to maintain for no real benefit. Insulating your hot water pipes, especially any long runs between the tank and taps, reduces heat lost in transit and is a genuinely quick, low-cost win.
Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, dust and anything blocking airflow, since restricted airflow forces the unit to work harder for the same output. If your household or business has a predictable usage pattern, a timer can also help avoid heating water during hours it won't be used. Finally, don't skip regular maintenance — a well-maintained unit stays efficient for its entire working life, while a neglected one gradually loses performance.
Easy win: Set a sensible thermostat temperature, not maximum
Quick fix: Insulate hot water pipes
Ongoing habit: Keep the outdoor unit clear of debris
Best practice: Regular maintenance protects efficiency long-term
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Setting a sensible thermostat temperature rather than the maximum is the simplest change, alongside keeping the outdoor unit free of obstructions for good airflow.
Yes, especially on longer pipe runs — insulating hot water pipes reduces heat lost in transit between the tank and your taps.
For short absences it's usually fine to leave it running at a lower setting; for extended absences, turning it off or using a timer can save on standby running costs.
Yes — a poorly maintained unit with a dirty coil or low refrigerant charge has to work harder for the same output, which increases running costs over time.