Summarize this article:

Start inspections or cleanings in the morning so you don’t keep your heat pump off during the warmest part of the day. Make sure you check the power on both the indoor and outdoor units before servicing them.  The indoor unit will have an easily accessible on/off switch. The outdoor unit of your pump will have an electrical port on the exterior wall. The switch needs to be flipped so that it is in the off position. Lift the lid of your interior unit and gently remove the filters. If they are covered in dust, put the filters in hot, soapy water and softly scrub them with a cleaning cloth. Rinse out the soap and let them air dry. Once the filters have dried, place them back into the heat pump. Filters should be replaced after 6 months of use. Spray into the side vents with a foaming cleaner meant for air conditioners so it cleans the coil. Let the foam set in the coils for 5 minutes. Use a hose with a gentle stream to clear away the foam and dirt. If you live in an area with harsh winters, clean the coil at the beginning of spring and at the end of fall before the first freeze. Professional technicians will take apart and care for the areas of your heat pump that you may not be able to access on your own. They will make sure that every part runs smoothly as you use your pump.

Summary:
Turn the power off on your unit before cleaning it in the spring. Clean the air filters once a month. Use a foam cleaner and hose to clean the outdoor unit every 6 months. Have a professional service your heat pump yearly.