Homeowner Maintenance Manual

C E N T U R Y C OMM U N I T I E S H OM E OWN E R M A N UA L

Auxiliary Heat System At lower outside temperatures, less heat is available for the heat pump to draw from the exterior air. Therefore, from time to time the auxiliary heat system will come on to maintain the temperature you set at the thermostat. The auxiliary system will also come on whenever the temperature at the thermostat is moved 1.5 degrees or more at one time. If the light stays on when the outside temperature is more than 30 degrees F, contact a service person. Defrost Cycle When the heat pump is operating in the heat mode, the coils outside may reach below freezing temperatures. Moisture in the air will condense into frost and accumulate on the coils under these circumstances. From time to time, the system will go into defrost mode to clear accumulated frost from the coils. This is a normal part of the operation of the system and will occur automatically. During the defrost cycle; the outside fan will stop temporarily. The temperature of airflow into the home will be a bit lower during the defrost cycle. The defrost cycle can only occur once every 90 minutes and lasts no longer than 10 minutes. Night Setback Unless you have a night setback thermostat designed to work with a heat pump system, do not turn the thermostat down in the evenings. Adjust the temperature a fraction of a degree at a time until a comfortable, permanent setting is found. Register Adjustment Registers could possibly require adjustment from time to time to maximize your family’s comfort. Do not completely close off more than one supply register at a time. This can restrict the airflow too much and reduce the efficiency of the system. Return Air Vents As with any heating system, return air vents must be clear so the air flows through the ducts unimpeded. Avoid placing furniture where it blocks the return air vents.

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LANDSCAPING Homeowner Care and Maintenance Providing complete details on landscape design is beyond the scope of this manual. Many excellent books, videos and computer software programs are available that offer you this information. Local nurseries and landscape professionals can also assist you.

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C E N T U R Y C OMM U N I T I E S