1. Make sure your heat pump is ready for the holidays

Dermot advises:

“Just like you’d service your car before a long trip, your heat pump deserves a little attention before the busy winter period. A well-maintained heat pump runs more efficiently, saves energy and ensures you stay warm when you need it most.”

 

Check these quick things before the cold sets in:

  • Make sure your system has had its annual service by Mitsubishi Electric or by one of their authorised service partners.
  • Clear away any leaves, debris or snow from around the outdoor unit to allow for good airflow.
  • Check your desired temperature  is holding steady.

If you’re unsure, your installer or Mitsubishi Electric service partner can help with a quick pre-Christmas check-up.

Dermot Bannon's Christmas Tips

2. Keep a steady temperature

“Many people are tempted to turn their heating on and off to save energy, but with a heat pump, it’s actually more efficient to maintain a consistent temperature”, Dermot explains,

“Heat pumps are designed to maintain comfort efficiently. Instead of big temperature swings, aim for a steady warmth throughout the day.

Try setting your thermostat to a comfortable level of 20 - 21°C and let the system do the work. Even if no one is in the home, its best to keep your temperature set to 16°C if the home is unoccupied, and 20°C when the home is occupied”. 

 

3. Don’t block the warmth

“Decorations are part of the magic of Christmas, but avoid placing large ornaments, furniture or festive displays in front of vents or indoor units”, adds Dermot. “It can be tempting to place furniture or festive decorations in front of radiators when space is scarce, but doing so can restrict airflow and reduce heating performance. Take a few minutes to rearrange your space so warm air can circulate freely- good airflow ensures even heating throughout your home. Your home will feel cosier and your heat pump won’t have to work as hard.”

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4. Take advantage of smart controls

“Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps come with smart controls that let you manage your heating from your smartphone.

This means you can:

  • Warm up the house before you get home from shopping or festive events.
  • Turn down the temperature while you’re away visiting family.
  • Monitor energy use to stay efficient during the holidays.

It’s a smart, simple and perfect way for keeping everyone happy, even the in-laws!”

 

5. Add Cosy Touches

“Not everything about staying warm has to be high-tech. Compliment your heating system with soft furnishings- think throws, rugs, cushions and softer lighting using lamps placed strategically around you home. These not only add a festive feel, but also help retain warmth in your living spaces.”

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Dermot suggests adding layers of comfort around the home:

  • Use heavy or thermal curtains to keep heat in and cold out.
  • Add soft rugs to tiled or wooden floors.
  • Bring out throws and cushions to make living areas extra inviting.
  • Placing smaller lamps around the room with warm colour bulbs

“It’s about combining comfort and efficiency, creating a home that feels warm, both in temperature and atmosphere.”

 

6. Don’t forget fresh air

“When the weather turns cold, it’s tempting to seal the house up completely but ventilation is key to maintaining a healthy home environment,” explains Dermot.

“If your home has a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system, like the Mitsubishi Electric Lossnay MVHR, make sure it’s working properly and filters are clean. MVHR systems keep the air fresh while retaining up to 90% of the heat - perfect for cosy, condensation-free comfort.”

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7. Embrace Zoning

“Only heat the rooms you’re using.  Zoning means dividing your home into different heating areas so you only heat the spaces you’re using. Modern heat pump systems like the Ecodan from Mitsubishi Electric often allow you to control temperatures in separate zones, so  you can keep the living areas warm for gatherings while reducing heat in unused bedrooms. This simple step can cut energy costs without sacrificing comfort.”

 

How to Use Zoning Effectively

  • Identify Key Spaces: Focus on rooms where you’ll spend most of your time during Christmas, like the living room or kitchen.
  • Adjust Settings: Lower the temperature in unused bedrooms or guest rooms when not in use.
  • Use Timers or Smart Controls: The Ecodan heat pump system allows scheduling so you can heat up zones before you need them.
  • Close Doors: Help maintain the temperature in each zone by keeping doors shut between heated and unheated areas.
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Dermot’s Final Thoughts

“Christmas is such a special time,  it’s when our homes really come to life. Taking a little time to make sure your heating and ventilation systems are working efficiently means you can relax, stay cosy, and focus on what really matters: spending time with the people you love.

From myself and everyone at Mitsubishi Electric Ireland, I’d like to wish you a very warm and happy Christmas.”

 

A warm Christmas, the efficient way

A little preparation goes a long way. This Christmas, enjoy a home that’s both cosy and energy-conscious. With a few simple steps, and the right technology, you can relax knowing your heating is performing at its best.

Visit The Heating Hub by Mitsubishi Electric Ireland for more expert advice from Dermot Bannon on how to make your home warmer, healthier and more efficient all year round.