Heat pumps are a wonderful option for homeowners always searching for energy-efficient and cost-effective ways to keep their homes pleasant all year. But like any other HVAC system, a heat pump can also malfunction over time.
It can be frustrating to notice your heat pump is acting up without knowing what’s causing it. So, it always helps if you know a couple of troubleshooting techniques to help you resolve the issue without needing a professional to step in.
Here are five common heat pump problems and tips on how to fix them:
5 Common Heat Pump Problems and How to Fix Them
Heat Pump Won’t Turn On
If your heat pump isn’t turning on, you should first see if the thermostat is set to the right temperature and mode. Your circuit breaker may have tripped if you don’t see any issue there.
Fixing the circuit breaker would usually restore your heat pump’s functioning, but if that doesn’t seem to be a problem, you might have to call an HVAC expert for assistance.
Inadequate Cooling or Heating
If your heat pump is failing to cool or heat the indoor air like it used to, check the air filters to see if they are dirty. Dirty air filters can limit airflow and make it challenging for your appliance to consistently deliver warm or cool air.
Often, removing and cleaning or replacing the air filter could fix the issue. But low refrigerant levels, a malfunctioning compressor, or a damaged fan motor could contribute to insufficient cooling or heating.
So, if you have already tried your luck with air filters, it’s best to get in touch with a professional to take a look and resolve the problem.
Strange Noises
A faulty blower motor is to blame if you hear sounds such as grinding or squealing from your heat pump. But if it’s making rattling or clicking sounds, it might mean a loose or damaged component.
In such cases, it’s often best to ask a professional for help if you don’t have any prior knowledge about the components and parts of a heat pump. Trying to fix the problem on your own could result in further damage, so it’s better to stay safe than sorry!
Short-Cycling
Is your heat pump frequently turning off and on? That’s what we call short cycling. Short-cycling can be caused due to multiple reasons, including a clogged air filter, refrigerant leak, malfunctioning thermostat or more.
The best things to do is to take a look at the air filter, and if replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, allow a professional to step in and diagnose and troubleshoot the issue.
Frozen Heat Pump
A malfunctioning defrost control board, a dirty air filter, or decreased refrigerant levels could all cause your heat pump to freeze. To troubleshoot this issue, turn your heat pump off for a couple of hours and let it thaw.
Meanwhile, clean or replace the air filters. If your heat pump doesn’t seem to be working properly afterwards, call in an expert for a thorough inspection and service.
Wrapping up, these few troubleshooting techniques can help you maintain the efficiency of your heat pump and save money on frequent repairs and services. Yet, if you feel like fixing your heat pump is beyond your expertise, you should get in touch with a reliable HVAC company immediately.
At Diamond Air Design, we offer a range of heat pump installation, repair, replacement, and maintenance services. Call us today to learn more about our offerings and how we can assist in fixing your heat pump!
